University of North Dakota

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines advanced coursework with an original, laboratory- or practice-based research dissertation. Core study areas typically include advanced pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, drug delivery and formulation, medicinal chemistry principles, pharmacogenomics, toxicology, and biostatistics. Students also take modules in research design and ethics, regulatory science, health outcomes and pharmacoepidemiology, and aspects of pharmacy administration such as leadership, management and policy.

• Foundational courses in pharmaceutical sciences (pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, formulation science)
• Advanced electives aligned to faculty research (drug metabolism, nanomedicine, targeted drug delivery, biologics)
• Quantitative methods and statistics for biomedical research
• Regulatory affairs, quality assurance and translational science
• Professional development: grant writing, scientific communication and teaching pedagogy
• Research practicum: laboratory rotations or practicum experiences leading to dissertation research
• Doctoral seminar series and journal clubs to develop critical appraisal skills

The programme culminates in comprehensive/qualifying examinations and the completion and defence of an original doctoral dissertation under the supervision of a faculty advisor. Many students also gain teaching experience and participate in multi-disciplinary research teams across the university and partner health organisations.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a relevant master’s degree, PharmD, or an equivalent professional qualification in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, pharmacology or a closely related discipline. Strong candidates will demonstrate a solid academic record, research experience and commitment to doctoral-level research.

• Academic transcripts from previous higher education
• Curriculum vitae detailing research experience and relevant employment
• Statement of research interests or a preliminary research proposal aligning with faculty expertise
• Letters of recommendation (typically two or three) from academic or professional referees
• Proof of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests like TOEFL or IELTS)

Additional requirements may include an interview with prospective supervisors, and where relevant, evidence of laboratory skills or prior publications. Specific admission expectations may vary by research group; prospective students are advised to contact potential supervisors to discuss fit before applying.

Career prospects

Graduates from this PhD are prepared for a broad range of careers across academia, industry and the public sector. Typical career paths include:

• Academic positions as faculty and postdoctoral researchers leading independent research and teaching
• Research and development roles in pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device companies
• Regulatory science and policy roles within government agencies or industry regulatory affairs departments
• Clinical research positions in contract research organisations (CROs) and clinical trials management
• Health outcomes research, pharmacoepidemiology and health economics roles in consultancy or industry
• Senior leadership and administrative positions in hospital pharmacy, community pharmacy chains and healthcare organisations

Graduates typically combine scientific expertise with skills in project leadership, grant writing and interdisciplinary collaboration, making them competitive for roles that require both technical depth and strategic oversight.

Why study at University of North Dakota

The University of North Dakota’s College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences offers an environment that emphasises close mentorship, collaborative research and translational impact. Students benefit from access to active research laboratories, core analytical facilities and partnerships with regional health systems and industry collaborators. The college supports interdisciplinary work across toxicology, medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics and health services research, enabling doctoral candidates to pursue diverse research questions.

Smaller cohort sizes foster personalised supervisory relationships and opportunities for early responsibility in research projects and teaching. The programme’s location also provides opportunities for engagement with clinical practice settings and regulatory stakeholders, supporting the development of research with real-world relevance and clear career pathways after graduation.