Psychoactive pharmaceutical graduates navigate a complex, in-demand field
In August 2024, the Food and Drug Administration deferred approval for MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, which was an unexpected decision to many in the field of psychoactive drug development.
According to Cody Wenthur, associate professor and director of graduate studies in the UW–Madison Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation (PPI) MS and Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation (PPI) Capstone, the FDA’s decision had less to do with the effectiveness or concerns of the use of MDMA as treatment, but rather the quality and accuracy of the evidence submitted.
The application was weakened by minor issues, such as which events should be reported as adverse events, gaps in basic lab work and long-term follow-up. “These small knocks added up to create a concerning picture about confidence in the data,” Wenthur said.
“Despite how high-profile that was, it was in relation to just one company, not the whole industry. Psychoactive pharmaceutical research remains strong, and there’s a growing demand for professionals who can navigate both the scientific and regulatory landscapes,” Wenthur continued.
That’s where skilled professionals can make a difference.
“Despite how high-profile that was, it was in relation to just one company, not the whole industry. Psychoactive pharmaceutical research remains strong, and there’s a growing demand for professionals who can navigate both the scientific and regulatory landscapes,” said Wenthur.
With a curriculum not only focusing on science but also real-world application, UW–Madison’s PPI programs set students up for success in the interdisciplinary fields of drug development, clinical research and regulatory policy.
Hands-on, career-focused curriculum
The PPI MS is a fully online graduate program offered through the School of Pharmacy. The program prepares students to become professionals in bridging the gap between innovation and regulation. With coursework in drug development, project management and ethics, students are able to build a multidisciplinary foundation desired by pharmaceutical companies and other drug research organizations.
Key features of the program include:
A Master of Science degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, highly valued by pharmaceutical, academic, government and other sectors.
A curriculum with a wide span of domains: drug discovery and development, project management, clinical and scientific application, and history and humanities.
Hands-on, project-based learning connecting foundational knowledge with real-world psychedelic drug development efforts.
Flexible pacing, allowing students to complete the degree anywhere from 1 to 3 years while still being able to work full-time.
A PPI Capstone Certificate is an option for those who want a subset of the MS courses focusing on clinical applications of psychedelics as well as the humanities. Many students with professional degrees, like MDs or JDs, begin with the capstone but transition later to the master’s program.
Learning together, online and in person
There is more to the PPI program than just a degree. It’s known for building a tight-knit and supportive community, even for those who are taking the course remotely.
The DROPS student organization (Discussing Research on Psychoactive Substances) is a way for students to connect and plan PPI-related events. The program also creates space for informal meet-ups through the Coffee Shop group.
To further build community, UW–Madison hosts the Psychedelic Symposium each fall, which brings together researchers, graduate students and key industry stakeholders to share knowledge and facilitate collaboration.
“It’s one of my favorite things about the PPI students – they’re incredibly community-oriented, regardless of where they live,” said Wenthur.
Careers with an impact
Students who are currently in or who have graduated from PPI programs have made many impacts in the pharmaceutical world. Wenthur highlighted a few of the roles that graduates are currently pursuing:
- Clinical trial coordinators at research hospitals
- Scientists in psychedelic compound development labs
- Professionals supporting phase-based clinical trials
- Business developers in psychedelic health startups
- Clinical care providers in ketamine clinics and at international retreats
The PPI programs offer robust internship opportunities to support students, facilitated by employer liaison Chris McIntyre. These internships exist in Madison, across the nation and remotely and can potentially be completed at the student’s current workplace if the scope meets academic criteria.
Learn more or apply
Scholarships are available for both new and continuing students, and applications are accepted for both fall and spring starts. Visit the Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation (PPI) MS and Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation (PPI) Capstone websites for more information.
Email coach@pdc.wisc.edu or schedule a meeting to connect with an enrollment coach about these programs.
Article written by Jakob Moe.
Categories: News, Professional Degrees & Certificates