University of San Francisco

What you'll study

This multidisciplinary master’s combines foundational pharmaceutical science with applied administration and regulatory topics. Core scientific modules typically cover pharmacology, pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical chemistry, and pharmacokinetics/pharmacodynamics. Administrative and systems topics include regulatory affairs and compliance, drug development and translational research, quality assurance and good manufacturing practices, and health‑care systems and policy.

Teaching is delivered through a mix of lectures, laboratory or practical sessions, case studies and project work. Students usually complete a capstone project, practicum or thesis that applies scientific knowledge to a real‑world problem — for example, a drug formulation project, regulatory submission analysis, clinical trial protocol design, or a market access strategy. Electives may allow specialisation in areas such as clinical research methods, biostatistics, pharmacoeconomics, or medical affairs.

Entry requirements

• A recognised bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline such as biology, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, nursing or a related health science. Applicants with substantial relevant professional experience may also be considered.
• Academic transcripts demonstrating strong undergraduate performance in science and mathematics courses.
• Supportive references, typically academic or professional, that speak to the applicant’s preparedness for graduate study.
• A statement of purpose outlining academic and professional goals and how the programme fits those aims.
• A current CV or résumé detailing relevant work, research or laboratory experience.
• Evidence of English language proficiency for applicants whose first language is not English (accepted tests or institutional evidence as per university policy).

Some applicants may be invited to an interview. The programme may accept applicants with varying levels of research experience; bridging or prerequisite courses can be recommended when needed.

Career prospects

Graduates enter a broad range of roles across the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and health‑care industries. Typical positions include research scientist, formulation scientist, regulatory affairs specialist, clinical research associate, quality assurance/quality control professional, medical science liaison, and roles in pharmacovigilance or drug safety.

The combination of scientific training and administration prepares graduates for industry careers in product development, regulatory strategy, compliance, and programme or project management. Alumni may also progress to leadership roles within medical affairs, market access, or business development, or continue to doctoral study and clinical pharmacy programmes if they wish to pursue research or academic careers.

Why study at University of San Francisco

• Strategic location in San Francisco within a major biotechnology and life‑sciences cluster, providing access to internships, industry partnerships and employer networks across Bay Area biopharma and digital health companies.
• Interdisciplinary approach that integrates rigorous scientific training with regulatory, ethical and business perspectives — useful for professionals who need to bridge science and administration.
• Small class sizes and faculty with both academic and industry experience, enabling close mentorship and practical, project‑based learning.
• Emphasis on ethics and social responsibility reflecting the university’s mission, including considerations of access, equity and population health in pharmaceutical practice and policy.
• Opportunities to engage with local clinical and research institutions, professional societies and start‑up ecosystems for experiential learning and career development.