2022-2023 Graduate Catalog 
    
    Apr 18, 2024  
2022-2023 Graduate Catalog [Archived Catalog]

Pharmaceutical Sciences (M.S.)

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus, Online


Program Coordinator/Contact

Hemachand Tummala, 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 M.S. degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences. The didactic courses, along with the research concentration in a specific area of pharmaceutical sciences, provide a strong foundation for the academic, industry, and other research careers. The program places a strong emphasis on comprehensive and high-quality graduate education and research experiences for the students. The M.S. degree is offered as thesis (Option A) and non-thesis (Option B) options.

Student Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences will:

  • Demonstrate knowledge of key fundamental concepts in the pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences.
  • Apply pharmaceutical and biomedical science knowledge and research techniques to drug discovery and development.
  • Retrieve and critically evaluate the scientific literature.
  • Utilize effective written and oral communication skills.
  • 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


Master of Science Option A - Thesis 30 Credit Hours
  Option B - Research/Design Paper 32 Credit Hours
  Option C - Coursework Only 35 Credit Hours

Select one of the following options


Option A - Thesis


Option B - Research/Design Paper


Select from the following

Electives (6 credits) can be taken from graduate-level PHA-prefix courses and related disciplines (CHEM, BIOL, etc). Credits: 6

Option C - Coursework Only


Select from the following

Electives (11 credits) can be taken from graduate-level PHA-prefix courses and related disciplines (CHEM, BIOL, etc). Credits: 11

Total Required Credits: 30 (Option A), 32 (Option B), 35 (Option C)


Additional Admission Requirements


GRE: Not Required
TOEFL: 79 Internet-based
TOEFL Essentials: 8.5
IELTS: 6.5 or higher
Duolingo: 110

  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, 79 Internet-based or above is required. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) band score is also acceptable (6.5 or higher). No minimum score is set for GRE test. 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.

General Requirements


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

For additional information refer to the Master’s Degree Requirements .