Pharmaceutical Sciences: Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation MS

Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Is this program right for you?

If you’re interested in the field of controlled psychoactive substances for the treatment of neuropsychiatric conditions, this program provides an in-depth understanding of the application of psychedelics and psychedelic-assisted therapy, as well as medical cannabis.

This highly interdisciplinary program was made to appeal to students looking for careers in the pharmaceutical, academic, government, nonprofit and healthcare industries
Since this program is delivered entirely online, it is available to local and international students alike
The ideal candidate has a bachelor’s degree or equivalent credential from an accredited college or university

Education that works for you

The UW–Madison MS in Pharmaceutical Sciences: Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation is designed to better prepare recent grads and working professionals for a career in the discovery, development and clinical application of psychoactive drugs as therapeutic agents.

Program type

Master’s degree

Explore program types

Degree awarded

Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Commitment

12 months – 3 years

Tuition

$1,500 per credit

Format

Accelerated

Online

Credits

30 graduate credits

Admission terms

Program admits for fall and spring terms

Offered by

School of Pharmacy

STEM opt eligible

Yes, restrictions apply

Supports F-1 Visa

Learn more

Application deadlines

Fall 2027

Deadline: May 31, 2027

Spring 2028

Deadline: September 30, 2027

Fall 2028

Deadline: May 31, 2028

View UW–Madison’s Guide

Your questions, answered

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Qualifying Question

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Vincent Wartneweiler smiling in his UW lab coat

[This program] really opened my eyes to how big the topic of psychedelics is, beyond just what’s happening in the brain, what’s happening in the body. I really appreciated taking a breadth of coursework rather than focusing just on the sciences. The flexibility really is there.

Vincent Wartenweiler MS’23, Pharmaceutical Sciences: Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation

Admissions and events

For complete application details visit UW–Madison’s Guide →

November 3, 2026 from 12 p.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Program Overview: MS in Biotechnology Program

Join Academic Director Dr. Natalie Betz for an overview of the MS in Biotechnology program, including its curriculum, flexible scheduling for full-time workers, career outcomes, and the application process for Fall 2027. Meet program staff with the opportunity to ask questions.

November 4, 2026 from 5 p.m. to 5:45 p.m.

Psychedelics at FDA: 2026 Developments

Join Cody Wenthur, director of the UW-Madison Center for Psychedelic Research and Education, for a conversation on recent developments regarding FDA review of psychedelic new drug applications.

Results that work for you

Pharmaceutical Sciences: Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation MS

Job titles

Research Coordinator
Regulatory Affairs Manager
Laboratory Director
Integration Specialist
Associate Scientist

→

Top industries

Integrata
Capital Ketamine
Usona
Medical College of Wisconsin
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Wisconsin Opioid Overdose Response Center (WOORC)

→

What you’ll learn

Prepare to make a difference in the mental health field with the Pharmaceutical Sciences: Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation MS program. You’ll explore the science behind psychoactive drugs, drug development, and legal regulations through a blend of coursework, research and discussions.

For complete curricular details visit UW-Madison’s Guide →

Drug development process
Current trends in drug discovery
Regulatory Practices
Legal structures for controlled substances

Video insights

Want a closer look at the MS program? Check out our official YouTube playlists for a program overview, application tips, and student outcomes.

Start watching

A man in his living room working on his laptop.

Connect with an enrollment coach

Our friendly, knowledgeable enrollment coaches are here to answer your questions. Connect with us to:

Explore your program options
Review courses and outcomes
Check eligibility requirements
Get help with your application
Learn about financial aid

Email us: coach@pdc.wisc.edu

Schedule a meeting