2021-2022 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Mar 28, 2024  
2021-2022 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Pharmaceutical Sciences (Ph.D.)


Program Coordinator/Contact

Hemachand Tummala, Interim Department Head, Graduate Program Coordinator and Professor
Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Avera Health and Science Center 255, Box 2202C
605-688-4236

Program Information

The Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences offers courses and research opportunities in pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences. The Department also offers opportunity for combination Doctor of Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)/Ph.D. degrees in Pharmaceutical Sciences. The didactic courses, along with the research concentration in a specific area of pharmaceutical sciences, provide a strong foundation for academic, regulatory affairs, industry and other research careers. The program places a strong emphasis on comprehensive and high quality graduate education and research experience for the students.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences will:

  • Integrate and apply knowledge of the pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences to problems in drug discovery and development.
  • Conduct research with skill and competence, including hypothesis development, experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation.
  • Critically evaluate scientific literature and analyze contemporary scientific issues.
  • Communicate effectively in both written and oral forms to a wide range of audiences.
  • Demonstrate professionalism and ethical conduct.

Course Delivery Format

Coursework is provided primarily through lectures, discussions and laboratory work.

Facilities and Services

The graduate program is housed in the Avera Health and Science Center on the Brookings campus. The Avera Health and Science Center has well-equipped classrooms that utilize modern technology for delivering the curriculum. The facility has modern research laboratories that support our growing research program.

Student Support and Engagement Opportunities

Graduate students may choose to become involved with the College’s Honorary societies and other student organizations including the student chapter of the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS).

Available Options for Graduate Degrees


Doctor of Philosophy 60 Credit Plan
  90 Credit Plan

Core Requirements


60 Credit Plan


90 Credit Plan


Additional Admission Requirements


GRE: Not required
TOEFL: Minimum score of 550 paper-based, 71 Internet-based
IELTS: 6.0 or higher
Duolingo: 100

  1. Letters of Recommendation Two personal reference letters from people acquainted with the academic ability and professional competence of the applicant are required.
  2. TOEFL/GRE Scores Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) scores are required for international students from non-English speaking countries. A minimum score of 550 paper-based, 71 Internet-based or above is required. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) band score is also acceptable (6.0 or higher). The Institutional Code for SDSU is 6653.
  3. A Statement of Personal Goals and Philosophy The statement should be brief and no more than one page.

For more information on applying to the Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences visit the program website. The Department admits students based on the availability of funds and research openings in faculty laboratories. Applicants should check for research openings with the individual faculty before submitting their application materials. The faculty contact information can be found on the department website.

General Requirements


Graduate students must consult with their advisors before registering for graduate coursework.

For additional information refer to the Doctor of Philosophy Degree Requirements .