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School of Pharmacy & Health Professions

Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences

The Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS) at Notre Dame of Maryland University prepares students for careers in drug discovery, development, and research. As they progress through the program, students have the opportunity to focus their studies by choosing a concentration in pharmaceutics, pharmacology, or medicinal chemistry, allowing them to align their education with their specific interests and career goals. The program equips graduates to contribute to advancing pharmaceutical science through innovation, research, and real‑world application.

overview

SchoolSchool of Pharmacy & Health Professions
TypeMaster's
FormatIn-Person
Credits39
LevelGraduate & Professional Studies

The Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS) at Notre Dame of Maryland University builds on the School of Pharmacy and Health Professions’ distinction as the first—and only—pharmacy school at a private institution in Maryland. As just the second program in the state offering this degree, MSPS provides focused study in pharmaceutics, medicinal chemistry, and pharmacology, paired with a structured, non‑thesis format that includes a time‑bound capstone project to demonstrate mastery of core concepts and skills.

Designed with flexibility in mind, the program is ideal for students already in the workforce or those seeking to enter the field quickly. A strong emphasis on hands‑on learning equips students with practical skills in areas such as drug formulation, regulatory affairs, quality control, and clinical trials, while a 1:2 faculty‑to‑student ratio ensures personalized advising, mentorship, and advanced training.

With a diverse community of students and faculty, and instructors who bring extensive experience in teaching, research, and industry, students benefit from meaningful connections and real‑world insight. Located near major biotech hubs and federal agencies, the program prepares graduates for in‑demand roles and positions them to contribute to innovation and progress in pharmaceutical sciences.

Faculty

a curriculum built for what's next

Pathway

39

YR 1 Fall semester (11 Credits)

  • Ethics in Research (1)
  • Experimental Methods in Pharmaceutical Sciences (2)
  • Principles of Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry I (3)
  • Research Orientation I (1)
  • Introduction to Biomedical Sciences (3)
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences Journal Club I (1)

Total Credits: 11

YR 1 Spring Semester (11 Credits)

  • Scientific Writing (1)
  • Principles of Pharmaceutics and Biopharmaceutics (3)
  • Principles of Pharmacology and Medicinal Chemistry II (3)
  • Research Orientation II (1)
  • Biostatistics (2)
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences Journal Club II (1)

Total credits: 11

YR 1 Summer (0 Credits)

  • Optional (recommended): Industry Project/Internship (OPT or CPT never involved any credits for industrial internships), students will seek the appropriate opportunity (0)

Total credits: 0

YR 2 Fall Semester (8 Credits)

  • Pharmaceutical Sciences Journal Club III (1)
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences Research (pathway dependent) (2)
  • Topics in Pharmacology (3), OR Topics in Medicinal Chemistry (3), OR Topics in Pharmaceutics (3) (pathway dependent)
  • Elective (2), (pathway-dependent elective)

Total credits: 8

YR 2 Spring Semester (9 Credits)

  • Elective (2), (pathway-dependent elective or any offered at School of Pharmacy)
  • Graduate Seminar in the Pharmaceutical Sciences (1)
  • Capstone Project (6)

Total credits: 9

Admissions Information

July 1 for Fall applications, rolling admissions

Timeline for Admissions review and decision: 2 – 4 weeks

Applications should accompany official transcripts and letters of recommendations.  An initial evaluation will determine which applicants are eligible for remote interview (Zoom or Teams), followed by a final evaluation for acceptance to the program.

Given the competitive admissions environment, multiple criteria are used to select the most qualified candidates. Grade point averages, letters of reference, professional preparedness and motivation, personal qualities, communication skills, ability to be a team player and decision-making will all be considered when reviewing an applicant’s file.  Candidates accepted in the program will be informed by email.

Completion of a baccalaureate degree in pharmacy, chemistry, biochemistry, physiology or related biological sciences preferred. Other degrees must complete the following perquisites.

Biochemistry
Calculus
General Chemistry I & II
Organic Chemistry I & II
Physics I & II
Statistics
Anatomy and Physiology, I and II

Minimum GPA of 2.5 in Bachelor’s degree

Proof of English Proficiency, minimum requirements are TOEFL (79), IELTS (6.5) or equivalent.  GRE not required.

Letters of Recommendations: 2

application process

apply for:

1

Application

Submit your application via PharmGrad. 

2

Transcripts

Submit your official transcripts on PharmGrad.

Instructions

3

Required Materials

Submit required materials on PharmGrad:

  • Two or more letters of recommendation
1

Application

Submit Your Application via the NDMU application.

2

Transcripts

Submit your official transcripts from all previous institutions.

Read instructions on the school website to send your transcripts to NDMU processing@ndm.edu

3

Submit the following via your pURL page:

  • Two or more letters of recommendation

Accreditation

Middle States Accreditation

Notre Dame of Maryland University is accredited by MSCHE. The University was last reaffirmed on June 22, 2017 after its regular Self-Study and accreditation review. The University received several commendations. Its next evaluation is scheduled for 2025-2026. For more information, please see: https://www.msche.org/institution/0157/.

Goals & Outcomes

The key objectives of the Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences program include:

  • Addressing the growing demand for skilled professionals in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry in the state
  • Fostering regional expertise and encouraging collaboration between academia and local pharmaceutical companies
  • Contributing to the state’s economic development by attracting and retaining talent in this crucial sector
  • Promoting advancements in healthcare and research

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Cost of Attendance

All Tuition and fees are listed with our business office.

$825 per credit hour
$195 per semester Registration/Technology Fee

Maryland Resident eligible for grants