University of Michigan

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in the chemical, biological and physical sciences that underpin drug discovery, development and safe use, while adding coursework in administration, regulatory frameworks and industry practice. Core subject areas typically include:

• Foundational sciences: general and organic chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology and cell biology.
• Pharmaceutical sciences: pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, pharmaceutics/formulation science and drug delivery.
• Analytical and laboratory skills: instrumental analysis, analytical chemistry, quality control and hands-on laboratory modules focused on formulation, assay development and good laboratory practice.
• Regulatory, clinical and administrative topics: regulatory affairs, drug safety/pharmacovigilance, clinical trials methodology, health systems and elements of pharmaceutical business/management.
• Practical experience and research: options for laboratory-based honours projects or faculty-led research, internships or industry placements, and a capstone project integrating scientific and administrative perspectives.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: electives often draw from public health, data science, economics or business courses (including opportunities to take classes across the Medical School and Ross School of Business), allowing specialisation in areas such as drug development, regulatory policy, or commercialisation.

Entry requirements

Applicants should demonstrate strong achievement in secondary (or post-secondary for transfers) study with emphasis on STEM subjects. Typical entry expectations include:

• Academic background: successful completion of high-school level courses in chemistry and biology, and strong performance in mathematics (pre-calculus or calculus) and physics is highly recommended.
• Academic record: a competitive secondary-school GPA or equivalent; transfer applicants are evaluated on college coursework and GPA with attention to prerequisite science courses.
• Supporting materials: personal statement or statement of purpose outlining interest in pharmaceutical sciences, and one or more academic or professional references where required by the university admissions process.
• Standardised testing and international applicants: check the university’s current policy on standardised tests; international students will need to meet English language proficiency requirements (for example via TOEFL or IELTS) unless exempt.
• Desirable preparation: laboratory experience, research or work placements in healthcare or industry, and coursework in statistics or computer science are advantageous for applicants.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme enter a wide range of roles across industry, healthcare and research. Common destinations include:

• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry: formulation scientist, analytical chemist, process development scientist, quality control/quality assurance specialist, and regulatory affairs associate.
• Clinical research and regulatory sectors: clinical trials coordinator, regulatory compliance specialist, pharmacovigilance officer and roles in government health agencies.
• Commercial and policy roles: medical/scientific liaison, product management or commercial roles in pharma and medical devices, and policy work in healthcare and life-sciences regulation.
• Further study and research: many graduates progress to PharmD programmes, or pursue postgraduate research (MSc, PhD) in pharmaceutical sciences, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology or related fields.
• Other pathways: careers in consulting, intellectual property/patent work (with additional training), laboratory management and clinical laboratory roles are also common.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a strong, research-led environment with close links between its College of Pharmacy, Medical School, engineering and business schools. Students benefit from access to modern laboratories, interdisciplinary research centres and opportunities for experiential learning through internships and clinical partnerships. The Ann Arbor campus provides a collaborative academic culture, active student organisations related to pharmaceutical sciences and a broad alumni network that supports industry and academic career pathways. The programme’s emphasis on both scientific rigour and administrative knowledge prepares graduates to work across the full lifecycle of medicines—from discovery and development through to regulation and commercialisation.