Master of Science in Pharmacology \u2014 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)<\/p>\n
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What is the MS in Pharmacology at Boston University?<\/strong><\/p>\n Boston University\u2019s MS in Pharmacology is a research-driven graduate program housed in the Chobanian & Avedisian School of Medicine. It trains students in the skills needed for drug discovery, translational research, and regulatory science through rigorous coursework, hands-on lab experience, and professional development.<\/p>\n What program formats are offered?<\/strong><\/p>\n – Capstone track: Full-time, 1 year (12 months), 32 units with a summer capstone research project. Part-time options are available\u2014contact the program for details.<\/p>\n Where are classes held?<\/strong><\/p>\n All classes and core research activities take place at Boston University\u2019s Medical Campus (at or in the vicinity of 72 East Concord St. Boston, MA 02118). In person attendance is expected.<\/p>\n Who should apply?<\/strong><\/p>\n Ideal candidates have a bachelor\u2019s degree in a life science or related field, a strong academic record (overall and science GPA of 3.0 or higher), and an interest in drug discovery, translational research, or regulatory science.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n What do I need to apply?<\/strong><\/p>\n Submit an online application here<\/a>\u00a0with:<\/p>\n See the GMS admissions page for step-by-step details and required forms<\/a>.<\/p>\n When should I apply?<\/strong><\/p>\n Right now! We are currently accepting applications for Fall 2026. Classes begin September 2nd<\/sup>, 2026.<\/p>\n Visit the GMS admissions website for current deadlines and important dates<\/a>.<\/p>\n What does the curriculum include?<\/strong><\/p>\n The curriculum blends core courses, electives, seminars, and a capstone or thesis. Core topics include pharmacokinetics\/pharmacodynamics, drug metabolism, molecular and systems pharmacology, biostatistics, and modern research methods. Students also engage in professional development, seminars, and research mentoring. See the full curriculum here.<\/a><\/p>\n Where can I see the full curriculum?<\/strong><\/p>\n Full course listings and descriptions are available on the program curriculum<\/a> page.<\/p>\n What are the typical courses and credit\/unit breakdown?<\/strong><\/p>\n Fall and Spring each include 13\u201315 units of coursework (core + electives). Example core courses include:<\/p>\n – Professionalism and Skills for Success (2 units) Summer (Capstone track): Research in Pharmacology (4 units)<\/p>\n What electives are available?<\/strong><\/p>\n Students choose at least 5 elective credits across Fall and Spring from approved offerings such as:<\/p>\n – Advanced Research Methods (GMS PM 660) Additional Graduate Medical Sciences electives may be approved based on availability.<\/em><\/p>\n What research and lab experiences are included?<\/strong><\/p>\n Students gain hands-on training, both in the classroom and the lab, in biomolecular assays, structural analysis, cell\/tissue culture, high-throughput screening, and advanced bioanalytical methods. Facilities include core labs for cryo-electron microscopy, genomics, proteomics, imaging, and bioanalysis. Capstone or thesis projects provide mentored research experience.<\/p>\n What professional development and career support is offered?<\/strong><\/p>\n The program includes career counseling, grant-writing workshops, scientific communication training, networking events, and connections to Boston\u2019s biotech and pharmaceutical community. Faculty and staff provide individualized advising and one-on-one mentoring.<\/p>\n What careers can graduates pursue?<\/strong><\/p>\n Graduates are prepared for roles such as research scientist, clinical research associate, regulatory affairs specialist, drug safety analyst, or for continued study (PhD, MD, professional degrees). Alumni benefit from internships, mentorship, and industry partnerships.<\/p>\n What are the program learning outcomes?<\/strong><\/p>\n Graduates will be able to:<\/p>\n How much does the program cost?<\/strong><\/p>\n Tuition and fees change annually. For the most up-to-date information, see the GMS tuition and student financial services page. https:\/\/www.bumc.bu.edu\/gms\/admissions\/student-financial-services\/tuition\/<\/a><\/p>\n Financial aid, graduate assistantships, fellowships, and student loans may be available\u2014contact the Financial Aid office for current opportunities and application procedures.<\/p>\n How do I arrange a visit or request more information?<\/strong><\/p>\n Request more information or plan a campus visit via the GMS request-information<\/a> page.\u00a0 For direct inquiries, contact the Program Director at PharmMS@bu.edu or 617-358-2075.<\/p>\n Where can I find faculty, research areas, and FAQs?<\/strong><\/p>\n Visit BU Profiles<\/a>\u00a0the program\u2019s faculty directory<\/a>\u00a0and research areas<\/a> pages for detailed faculty profiles and ongoing projects. This FAQ page and the program curriculum page list additional resources and links.<\/p>\n Who should I contact with questions about admission or curriculum?<\/strong><\/p>\n General program inquiries: Program Director – Kate Carnevale, PhD | PharmMS@bu.edu | 617-358-2075<\/p>\n Admissions and application procedures: GMS Admissions website and contact pages<\/a>.<\/p>\n Financial aid: BU GMS Student Financial Services and Office of Student Financial Services contact pages<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\n– Thesis track: Full-time, 2 years, 36 units with an extended thesis research experience.<\/p>\n\n
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\n– Foundations in Life Sciences (3 units)
\n– Introduction to Drug Discovery (3 units)
\n– Modern Research Methods (3 units)
\n– Human Systems Physiology & Pharmacology (4 units)<\/p>\n
\n– Current Topics in Pharmacological Sciences (GMS PM 810)
\n– Drug Discovery and Development (GMS PM 881)
\n– Deconstructing Systemic Bias (GMS GE 706)<\/p>\n\n