PharmSci Career Opportunities

The pharmaceutical industry represents a significant segment of the U.S. economy, representing over 900,000 U.S. employees, 21% of all U.S. research and development, and 1.4 trillion dollars in economic output.

The BSPS degree provides students with a unique set of skills, making them competitive for a variety of professional opportunities directly out of college. In addition, BSPS graduates are also highly qualified for admission to graduate and professional schools, including medical, veterinary, dental and optometry schools, PharmD programs, and graduate research programs.  Refer to this "What Can I Do with a Pharmaceutical Sciences Major?" document to learn about the exciting opportunities that are available to you!!

What Pharmaceutical Scientists Do

Pharmaceutical scientists usually work in some aspect of the drug development process. They may:

  • Design new drug therapies using natural or man-made ingredients
  • Discover new ways to use existing drugs to treat different diseases
  • Study how disease affects the body and causes for the development of certain diseases
  • Determine the most effective formulation and dosage for a specific drug
  • Work on improving the drug manufacturing process
  • Advise corporations or government agencies on issues related to pharmaceutical development
  • Review scientific data as a government regulator, contributing to the drug review/approval process

Where Pharmaceutical Scientists Work

Work settings are broad and varied. You can work in:

  • The pharmaceutical industry
  • Biotech companies
  • Government agencies, including the Food and Drug Administration and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  • Non-profit organizations, providing expertise regarding drugs and medications
  • Health care insurance agencies
  • Contract research organizations
  • Learn more about other Career Options.

A Launchpad for Future Health Care Education and Training

The BSPS can also set you apart as a competitive candidate for professional healthcare programs in fields such as:

The BSPS also provides an excellent foundation for PhD, Master's, and Graduate Certificate programs in fields such as:

  • Pharmacology & Toxicology
  • Precision Medicine
  • Drug Discovery & Development
  • Law
  • Business Administration
  • Forensic Science
  • And more!

* Completion of the BSPS degree does not qualify graduates to take the state board examination to become a registered pharmacist; students who are interested in pursuing this career path must complete a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) degree. The BS in Pharmaceutical Sciences will prepare students to be very competitive applicants to PharmD programs.