2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog 
    
    May 10, 2024  
2023-2024 Undergraduate Catalog

Pharmacology and Toxicology Minor

Location(s): Brookings Main Campus


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Program Contact/Coordinator

Dan Hansen, Laughrey Endowed Dean
Brad Laible, Associate Dean for Academic Programs
James Clem, Associate Dean of Student Services
College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions
Avera Health and Science Center 133
605-688-6197 or 605-688-5591

Program Information

Pharmacology is the study of how chemical agents, both natural and synthetic (i.e. drugs), affect biological systems. Toxicology is the study of drug overdoses and other poisonings. The Pharmacology and Toxicology Minor enables students to explore fundamental and advanced concepts in pharmacology and toxicology. In this minor students will learn basic pharmacology and toxicology concepts that will prepare them for further education and careers in medical/health science professions.

Student Learning Outcomes


At the completion of the Pharmacology and Toxicology Minor, students will be able to:

  • Describe basic cell physiology, neural, hormonal, and neuroendocrine control systems.
  • Explain general mechanisms of drug action, principles of pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics, and reasons for individual variations in drug response.
  • Compare and contrast pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics with toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics.
  • Describe the pharmacology of medications used in the treatment of diseases related to the adrenergic and cholinergic systems.
  • Describe the pharmacology of central nervous system drugs, behavioral/addiction medications, and analgesic medications.
  • Describe general concepts of immunopharmacology, pulmonary pharmacology, anticancer pharmacology, endocrine pharmacology and antimicrobial therapy.
  • Explain mechanisms of toxicity and recognize adverse effects of medications and other poisons.
  • Recommend appropriate treatment for a poisoned patient.

Academic Requirements


Students in the Pharmaceutical Sciences (B.S.)/Pharmacy (Pharm.D.)  program are not eligible for this minor.

Total Required Credits: 18