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.

A BS degree from the College of Pharmacy provides a unique set of skills, making students competitive for a variety of professional opportunities directly out of college. In addition, Pharm 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 Pharmacy Undergraduate 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. Their work may include:

  • Designing new drug therapies using natural or man-made ingredients
  • Discovering new ways to use existing drugs to treat different diseases
  • Studying how disease affects the body and causes for the development of certain diseases

What Pharmacologists Do

Pharmacologists study how drugs and other substances interact with biological systems.  Their work may include:

  • Conducting research on how drugs interact with the body at the molecular, cellular, and systematic levels
  • Analyzing drug effects to determine efficacy, dosage, and potential side effects
  • Collaborating with healthcare providers to translate research findings into medical treatments

What Toxicologists Do

Toxicologists focus on the harmful effects of chemicals, including drugs, environmental pollutants, and toxins.  Their work may include: 

  • Identifying and analyzing toxic substances in food, water, drugs and the environment
  • Determining safe exposure levels for chemicals and recommending safety guidelines
  • Investigating poisonings and chemical exposures for public health and forensic cases

Where Pharmacy Undergrads Work

Work settings are broad and varied. After graduation,  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

A BS degree from the College of Pharmacy can also set you apart as a competitive candidate for professional healthcare programs in fields such as:

The Pharmaceutical Sciences and Medical Pharmacology & Toxicology majors 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 a BS 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. Both the BS in Pharmaceutical Sciences and BS in Medical Pharmacology & Toxicology will prepare students to be very competitive applicants to PharmD programs.