UNIVERSITY of WISCONSIN-MADISON

Close Menu

Pharmaceutical Sciences: Applied Drug Development MS

Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences

A pair of hands are holding a petri dish while the other hand holds a pipe over the dish.

Is this program right for you?

Pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical employers seek professionals with a scientific background and familiarity with drug development. Our Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences: Applied Drug Development is designed to prepare you for the job market and give you a competitive edge in a rapidly growing industry.

  • This program can be completed in one year, either hybrid or 100% online
  • Develop the practical and professional skills needed across the lifecycle of drug development, manufacturing, and ongoing safety management
  • With many courses designed in cooperation with industry experts, this degree prepares you for a variety of roles within the pharmaceutical and biotech industries, including skills required to work in a regulated environment

Education that works for you

Get advanced training in drug development to prepare for a variety of careers in the pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical industries.

Program type

Master’s degree

Graduate education in a specific area of expertise

Explore program types

Degree awarded

Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Commitment

3 semesters

Tuition

$1,500 per credit

Format

Accelerated

Fast-paced program with higher course load

Hybrid

Mix of on-campus and online courses

Credits

30 graduate credits

Admission terms

Program admits for fall and spring terms

Offered by

STEM opt eligible

Yes

International eligibility

Yes

Application deadlines

Fall 2025

  • Deadline: April 30, 2025

Spring 2026

  • Deadline: August 31, 2025

Fall 2026

  • Deadline: April 30, 2026
View UW–Madison’s Guide

Your questions, answered

Have questions? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

Admissions and events

Program requirements

All applicants must:

  • Have a bachelor’s degree, PharmD or equivalent from an accredited institution
  • Have a background in physical or biological sciences, engineering, pharmacy or a related field
  • Have a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0
  • Submit evidence of English language proficiency, if applicable. The required proficiency scores are: TOEFL IBT 92, PBT 580; or IELTS 7.0

Application materials required

  • Online application
  • Statement of purpose
  • Transcripts
  • Two letters of recommendation

After all application materials have been received, you will be notified by email of next steps, which may include scheduling a virtual interview.

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

November 5, 2024 from 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Career Outlook: Pharmaceutical Sciences: Applied Drug Development

Join Pharmaceutical Sciences: Applied Drug Development staff to learn how the Career and Employer Spotlight series and other program resources can support your career development goals.

Register now →

November 13, 2024 from 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Application Assistance: Pharmaceutical Sciences Professional Programs

Learn strategies to make your Pharmaceutical Sciences Professional Programs application stand out.

Register now →

November 14, 2024 from 4 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.

Career Outlook: Pharmaceutical Sciences: Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation

Join Pharmaceutical Sciences: Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation staff to learn how the Career and Employer Spotlight series and other program resources can support your career development goals.

Register now →

Results that work for you

Pharmaceutical Sciences: Applied Drug Development MS

#9

University of Wisconsin–Madison ranked ninth best pharmacy school by U.S. News & World Report.

U.S. News & World Report, 2024.

What you’ll learn

Launch your career in pharmaceutical devleopment with the Pharmaceutical Science: Applied Drug Development MS program. You’ll gain expertise in the entire drug development journey, from lab discovery to regulatory approval, while using project management skills and advanced lab techniques.

For complete curricular details visit UW-Madison’s Guide →
  • Drug development process
  • Regulatory process
  • Pharmacokinetics
  • Project management
  • Lab and instrumentation methods

Explore similar programs

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.

Fall 2025

Deadline: 04/30/25

Tuition

$1,500 per credit

Credits

30 graduate credits

Modality

Online

View program

The Applied Drug Development Capstone Certificate program immerses you in the intricacies of drug development. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the landscape, navigate the regulatory process, and develop essential skills to bring new drugs to market.

Fall 2025

Deadline: 05/31/25

Tuition

$1,500 per credit

Credits

12 graduate-level credits

Modality

Online

View program

Explore the cutting-edge science of psychoactive drugs with the Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation Capstone program. Through a combination of classroom learning and discussions on bioethics and current trends, you’ll be equipped to navigate the rapidly evolving field of psychedelic drug development.

Fall 2025

Deadline: 05/31/25

Tuition

$1,500 per credit

Credits

12 graduate-level credits

Modality

Online

View program
A man in his living room working on his laptop.

We’re here to help

Talk with an enrollment coach or program contact today to get your questions answered.

Connect with us
Four students outside Bascom Hall.

Join a flourishing and collaborative community

Learn more about being a Badger