Drexel University

Overview

The Drug Discovery and Development program at Drexel University equips students with a thorough understanding of how medications evolve from initial scientific ideas to clinical trials and regulatory approval. This program emphasizes practical, team-oriented skills in critical areas such as pharmacology, translational science, and drug development strategies.

What you'll study

The curriculum is structured around the entire drug development lifecycle, integrating scientific coursework with topics related to development, regulation, and management. Students typically engage in a core set of courses while having the flexibility to choose electives that align with their personal interests, such as translational research or clinical development.

Core topics you can expect to study include:

• Drug discovery workflows, from target identification to lead optimization and IND submission
• Drug development processes, including first-in-human studies and late-stage commercialization
• Fundamentals of clinical research and study evaluation
• Translational medicine and applicable preclinical models
• Concepts of new product development and planning
• Case studies from various therapeutic areas and disease contexts
• Molecular medicine fundamentals
• Pharmaceutical management and decision-making processes
• Principles of vaccine development
• Pharmacology and physiology
• Intellectual property considerations in drug development
• Regulatory frameworks and postmarketing challenges
• Innovation and entrepreneurship in life sciences

Applied learning opportunities include:

• Team-based projects and scenario-based learning to enhance development reasoning
• Case studies that connect scientific evidence with development strategies

Capstone or thesis component: Some Master of Science programs may require a project or capstone experience. Students should verify specific requirements with Drexel's program handbook or admissions team.

Entry requirements

• Graduate Admission Application
• Academic background: A bachelor's degree in a relevant field is typically required, such as life sciences, chemistry, pharmacy, biomedical sciences, or other related disciplines. Applicants with diverse scientific backgrounds may also be considered.
• Standardized tests: The GRE may be required for admission.
• English language proficiency: Proof of English proficiency is required, commonly through the TOEFL iBT.
• Supporting documents: Applicants must submit official transcripts, a résumé, and a personal statement or essay.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Drug Discovery and Development program often find employment in various sectors, including biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations (CROs), regulatory and clinical operations, academic research institutions, and government or nonprofit health organizations.