university of arizona phd in pharmaceutical sciences

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Our mission is to provide quality preclinical and clinical education in pharmacology and therapeutics for medical students, to educate and train graduate and postdoctoral biomedical scientists, to carry out basic research of recognized excellence, and to participate in governance and leadership in the College of Medicine at The University of Arizona and in appropriate national scientific and professional societies.

The Department of Pharmacology at The University of Arizona is comprised of faculty, fellows, students, and technical staff working together to understand how chemicals influence human disease. Some chemicals and drugs are used to treat human diseases while others are known to cause human diseases.

Pharmacology is the science concerned with all aspects of the action of drugs and other chemicals on living systems. Its primary aim is the discovery of chemical mechanisms by which cellular and molecular functions are regulated for the purpose of understanding how existing drugs act and to develop new drugs for treatment and diagnosis of human diseases. The discipline of pharmacology explores biology through the actions of drugs and chemical substances. Drugs and chemicals produce their effects only through modifications of underlying biological systems; their actions are useful in regulating not only normal functions of cells and organisms but also the abnormal processes which occur in disease.

The broad scope of interests of pharmacology ranges from the study of intermolecular reactions of chemical constituents of cells with drugs to the effects of drugs and established therapeutic agents on mammalian physiological organ systems. Professional pharmacologists tend toward careers in basic research and teaching in academia, in conducting innovative research in the pharmaceutical/biotech industry or for government laboratories and in ensuring the safety of drugs and chemicals through work at government agencies. Regardless of where one is employed, it is critical to have knowledge in genomics, proteomics, cell and molecular biology, integrated systems and chemistry.

Todd W. Vanderah, PhD  Regents Professor and Department Head  of Pharmacology

Upcoming Events

Honors, awards and accolades.

Roberta Diaz Brinton, PhD, director of the University of Arizona Center for Innovation in Brain Science (CIBS) will be honored as the Arizona Bioscience Researcher of the Year by the Arizona Bioindustry Association (AZBio) at the 2022 AZBio Awards event Sept. 28 at the Phoenix Convention Center.

Todd Vanderah, PhD, completed his doctorate at the University of Arizona Health Sciences, did his postdoctoral work in Colorado, then returned to a faculty position at the College of Medicine – Tucson, where he is head of the Department of Pharmacology.

Tally Largent-Milnes, PhD, is studying the role of the endogenous cannabinoid system in migraine, a neurological disorder that affects women at a higher rate than men.

Kaitlyn Haskie, 2nd Year, Medical Pharmacology PHD Program

Paula Redman, MS, Medical Pharmacoloy

Jesse Altemus - Medical Pharmacology Graduate Program

• Cancer Pharmacology/Biology
• Cardiovascular Pharmacology
• Immunopharmacology
• Molecular and Biochemical Pharmacology
• Neuroscience and Pain

Pharmaceutical Sciences

College of Pharmacy » Academic Programs » Graduate Programs » PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Why study Pharmaceutical Sciences?

Unleash your potential in the dynamic field of pharmaceutical sciences through our PhD program. Designed to inspire and challenge, our comprehensive curriculum combines cutting-edge coursework with advanced research, allowing you to delve into captivating areas such as pioneering drug development, unraveling the intricate impact of medications on the body, exploring breakthrough drug delivery techniques, and maximizing the therapeutic potential of medications for optimal patient outcomes. With flexible scheduling options available, including online and in-person formats, you can tailor your learning experience to fit your needs and preferences. 

Become part of our program and unleash your potential to make groundbreaking contributions that will shape the future of pharmaceutical sciences.

Choose Your Specialization

Because the scope of pharmaceutical sciences is so broad, our graduate program has a number of specialty disciplines:

Biomembrane Sciences Track

In the Biomembrane Sciences track, students delve into captivating research projects encompassing drug delivery strategies, cosmetic product safety assessment, mathematical modeling of membrane transport, innovative drug formulations, nanocarrier design, and advancements in skin and hair development.

Experimental Therapeutics Track

Discover a world of possibilities in our Experimental Therapeutics track, where we bridge the gap between innovative therapeutic entities and real-world applications. Explore captivating research opportunities in areas ranging from cancer biomarkers to neuropharmacology, stroke, epilepsy, and more.

Health Outcomes Track

The Health Outcomes track aims to train interdisciplinary scholars in pharmaceutical sciences, economics, business, and quantitative analysis. By conducting research in this emerging field, students develop expertise that can improve patient health. This track offers exciting opportunities to contribute to the pharmaceutical industry's growing demand for scientists skilled in social and administrative aspects of pharmaceutical sciences. Students in the Health Outcomes track explore diverse research projects, ranging from drug safety and pharmacovigilance to pharmacy facility design, operation, and pharmacoeconomics.

Admission Requirements

Applicants with an undergraduate degree in chemistry, biology, engineering, or related fields from an accredited institution are eligible to apply for our full-time, research-intensive MS program in Pharmaceutical Sciences. Similarly, those with a completed professional degree like PharmD, MD, or DVM also meet eligibility requirements. Interested applicants can directly apply without prior completion of an MS degree. Admission to our competitive program, which offers supervised, full-time research training, is based on a selection process. 

Programmatic minimum admission criteria include:

• A U.S. bachelors degree from a regionally accredited college or university or an equivalent degree from outside of the U.S.
• A grade-point average (GPA) of at least 3.00 or non-U.S. equivalent
• A Graduate Record Examination (GRE) score of at least 290/3.0 obtained within the past 5 years
• International Applicants: qualifying English language profiency score

Supplemental Application Documents

To be considered for admission, please complete the University of Cincinnati Graduate Application and submit the following documents electronically within the application: 

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Statement of Purpose: Explain your motivation for pursuing a research-intensive Ph.D. degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Cincinnati. Include your desired research focus area within the broad field of Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Submit all college transcripts, including evidence of high academic achievement (unofficial transcripts are sufficient for initial review).

• Three letters of recommendation are required for applications, and we strongly recommend that applicants seek letters from individuals who can provide insights into their research experience. Please note that letters of recommendation from family members, friends, current students, politicians, or clergy will not be accepted. 

Non-Matriculated Students

If you are interested in exploring Pharmaceutical Sciences graduate-level courses without formal enrollment in a degree-seeking program, please complete the  basic data form .

Our program opens doors to a wide range of exciting career opportunities in the pharmaceutical industry, clinical research organizations, academia, and government sectors. Upon graduation, you may find yourself in roles such as a scientist, clinical pharmacologist, clinical trial manager, post-doctoral fellow, or regulatory affairs manager.

Furthermore, there are additional career paths available, including positions as a medical science liaison, pharmaceutical consultant, medical writer, or chemist, providing you with diverse avenues to pursue your passions and contribute to the advancement of the field.

Scholarship Opportunities

To explore available scholarship opportunities, please visit our Financial Aid & Scholarships page .

The graduation requirements for this program include: 

Completion of Plan of Study

Successful passing of the PhD qualifier and research proposal

Verification of at least one (1) first-author manuscript related to PhD dissertation research that is accepted for publication in a peer-reviewed scientific journal

Compliance with degree-required seminar and journal club credit hours per semester

Cumulative grade point average of all didactic courses ≥3.0

Min of 90 credit hrs from track-based curriculum outline

No failing “F” grade in any of the degree-associated graduate courses

Successful upload of a chair-signed dissertation through the Graduate College ETD portal by the specified deadline

• Guide: Pharmaceutical Sciences- Biomembrane Sciences Track
• Guide: Pharmaceutical Sciences- Health Outcomes Track
• Guide: Pharmaceutical Sciences- Experimental Therapeutics Track

Application Deadlines

Early Admission

General Admission

All application documents must be electronically submitted through the online application. When completing the online application, please select the desired degree path carefully, as document switches between different tracks are not permitted. Applications are reviewed with the following timeline:

Fall semester applications are reviewed by the Admissions Committee in May, with submissions accepted until August 1st. 

Spring semester applications are reviewed by the Admissions Committee in October, with submissions accepted until December 1st. 

Typically, the Fall semester provides more opportunities for incoming applicants.

For further inquiries, contact [email protected] .

Contact Information

Find related programs in the following interest areas:.

• Medicine & Health
• Natural Science & Math

Program Code: 25DOC-PCEU-PHD

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Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

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PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences

At CU Pharmacy, we’re training scientists who make an impact. Our doctoral program in pharmaceutical sciences is focused on solving problems. In particular, the program covers the formulation, synthesis, manufacturing, development, stability, biophysical analysis, characterization, delivery, and biodistribution of small molecules and biopharmaceutical agents.

Our goals are to provide the best training for students interested in pursuing careers in biopharmaceutical drug development; conduct high-quality research relevant to pharmaceutical biotechnology; offer innovative educational programs; and to support the biopharmaceutical industry, especially in Colorado.

Here, you’ll have access to a wide range of researchers and research equipment; cross-training with chemical engineers; essential non-scientific training in regulatory affairs, business topics and pharmacoeconomics; experience with real world compounds and research and development problems; and interaction with industry scientists.

We have a strong track record of setting our students up for success. Graduates of our program have advanced into successful careers as senior scientists in the pharmaceutical industry and academia. We’re here to make sure you have the training you need to pursue a career in drug and biopharmaceutical discovery, development or clinical optimization.

As part of the CU Anschutz Graduate School, all PhD students in good academic standing are guaranteed financial support.

All regular full-time departmental faculty in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences are formal members of the pharmaceutical sciences graduate program and can take students into their laboratories if appropriate.

On average, students in this program earn their PhDs in 5.5 years.

Applications for all doctoral programs are submitted electronically through the Graduate School of the University of Colorado Denver. After signing up for an account, select 'PhD' under the 'Academic Interests' menu and scroll down to 'Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences' and select "PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences."

Application requirements are:

• A completed Graduate School application and $50.00 application fee (Domestic) $75.00 application fee (International)
• A baccalaureate degree of arts or science from an accredited college or university with a minimum GPA of 3.0.** One (1) official transcript of all academic work completed to date with awarded baccalaureate degree. University transcripts from other countries must include a transcript evaluation from World Education Services ( WES ). Applicants who complete a transcript evaluation with WES will have their application fee waived automatically.
• All applicants for the program should complete a year of study in the following subjects: general chemistry, organic chemistry, calculus, biology, English and physics. In addition, courses in the following subjects are highly recommended to supplement the student's background: physiology, biochemistry, statistics, cell biology, physical chemistry, and computer science.
• Three (3) letters of recommendation from professors or research supervisors familiar with your aptitude for graduate study

Additionally:

• The GRE (Graduate Record Examination) is not required but is optional.
• The TOEFL is required of applicants for whom English is not their first language, Duolingo and IELTS also accepted (more information on this here )
• Please use 4875 as the Institution Code so that the test results will be sent directly to our institution
• Under special circumstances, deficiencies in important areas may be made up within the first year after entrance into the program. Normally, admission to the program will be based on an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or better. However, applicants' recommendations, research experience and additional individual accomplishments will also be considered in the admissions process.

Application opens September 1, 2023. Applications will not be reviewed until all required materials have been received. The application deadline for Fall 2024 admission is December 1, 2023 for all students.

Admission to the program includes financial support via a stipend awarded on a 12-month basis. Based on the rules of the CU Anschutz Graduate School, all PhD students in good academic standing are guaranteed financial support.

Although a priority of the School of Pharmacy is to provide financial support to our graduate students, payment of stipend, tuition and any fees by the School of Pharmacy or by grants, contracts or gifts to the School of Pharmacy faculty is contingent upon satisfactory academic progress (as defined by the graduate school’s Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Student Handbook ) and completion of required teaching duties, core courses, research rotations, seminars, and examinations (as listed on the progress report form). We also reserve the right to review and adjust our funding policies at any time. All students are expected to work full-time toward program requirements for 12 months of the year.

Is the GRE required to apply?

What kind of students should pursue a phd degree in pharmaceutical sciences.

We are looking for bright, self-motivated people with degrees in chemistry, physics, biology, engineering, biochemistry, pharmacy and other related areas in biomedical science, who want a satisfying career connected with the pharmaceutical industry. This may involve working for a company, a federal laboratory, or an academic institution.

Just what does 'pharmaceutical sciences' mean?

Pharmaceutical sciences is a multi-disciplinary approach to solving problems associated with improving drug therapy for patients. It includes designing and synthesizing new drugs, developing new analytical methods to determine the purity and quality of therapeutic agents, finding better ways to deliver the drug to a patient, minimizing side effects, and assessing the activity and stability of drug compounds. Classically, pharmaceutical sciences was defined by the sub-disciplines of pharmaceutics, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and toxicology, but most modern research problems cross these traditional boundaries. In short, a graduate degree in pharmaceutical sciences is an ideal choice for anyone who wishes to work on developing new drug products and devices.

What makes the Pharmaceutical Sciences PhD program at the University of Colorado different than other PhD programs?

Emphasis on biotechnology.

Different graduate programs have different strengths. While one might come to the University of Colorado to pursue studies in any aspect of the pharmaceutical sciences, the real strength of our Pharmaceutical Sciences program lies in its emphasis on the use of quantitative, biophysical methods to address issues in pharmaceutical biotechnology. Pharmaceutical biotechnology describes a course of study that uses molecular biology, biophysical chemistry, and bioengineering methods to prepare and develop sophisticated therapeutic and diagnostic agents. These materials include recombinant proteins, vaccines, oligonucleotides, and gene therapy approaches. Students who pursue studies in pharmaceutical biotechnology might examine the stabilization of proteins and/or nucleic acids during storage, improved methods of drug delivery, analytical assay development, mutational effects on protein structure and function, molecular biology approaches to drug therapy, novel vaccines, bioprocessing, or formulation development. Students are required to take a core curriculum that reflects these areas of research. This effort has been strengthened by the formation of the Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, which is centered on a partnership between chemical engineering at the University of Colorado at Boulder and the School of Pharmacy.

The Opportunity to Work on 'Real World' Problems

Today's biotechnology products are quite complex. Therefore, it is advantageous for students to have the opportunity to work with therapeutic agents that are in development or on the market. Due to the generosity of industrial collaborators, students in our program have access to recently-discovered drug candidates before these compounds are marketed as commercial pharmaceuticals. Each year, industrial sponsors provide millions of dollars worth of compounds for research purposes.

Partnering with Industry

In order to facilitate interactions, we have established the Center for Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, which promotes graduate education and research opportunities by partnering with the pharmaceutical biotechnology industry. These interactions often result in the student participating in an industrial internship with a scientific mentor from the company.

Training in Financial and Legal Aspects of Pharmaceutical Sciences

Since most of our students ultimately are employed in a highly regulated industry affected by market pressures, all of our graduate students take courses covering regulatory affairs (i.e., the drug approval process), patent law, intellectual property issues, pharmaceutical marketing, and financial analysis. These skills are essential, but rarely found in other PhD programs. For students who wish to focus on these issues, we have established a separate PhD track in pharmaceutical Outcomes within the Pharmaceutical Sciences PhD program. Students interested in pursuing Outcomes research should view the Outcomes Research webpage.

What are the job prospects for a graduate with a PhD degree in the pharmaceutical sciences?

Considering the unique strengths of our program, someone who is successful and productive in our program will find a high demand for their talents. Most of our students find jobs with large pharmaceutical companies or smaller biotechnology enterprises. Typically, our students have multiple job offers awaiting them upon graduation.

Required Pharmaceutical Sciences Program Courses

Representative elective courses.

Through the pharmaceutical sciences graduate program, our goal is to educate pre-doctoral students to develop independent research careers in pharmaceutical sciences with a basic, clinical or pharmaceutical outcomes emphasis. Upon completion of the graduate program, our students use their training to make a difference in academia, industry or government. The learning objectives for the graduate program are:

• Demonstrate a basic knowledge of central concepts in the biomedical sciences.
• Understand the current concepts in basic and clinical pharmaceutical sciences.
• Read and critically evaluate the scientific literature.
• Formulate hypotheses based on current concepts in the field and design, conduct, and interpret their own research projects.
• Present research results in peer-reviewed publications and in a dissertation.
• Communicate research results effectively through oral presentations at scientific seminars, conferences, and other venues.

School of Pharmacy Graduate Degree Requirements

The following are specific rules approved by the graduate faculty of the School of Pharmacy for graduate studies leading to doctor of philosophy degree in toxicology. All other requirements for these degrees will follow the guidelines of the Graduate School, which can be found in the Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Student Handbook . The student carries the major responsibility of meeting the rules of the School of Pharmacy and the Graduate School. Failure to meet the following rules and guidelines may result in delay of graduation. ​

Student Progress Reviews

Each student will meet at least every six months with their temporary/thesis committee (starting the week before classes begin in the first year) in order to keep the committee apprised of all aspects of the student’s progress. A progress report form listing the requirements will be maintained in the School of Pharmacy graduate program file for each student.

It is the responsibility of the student to arrange meetings with his/her committee, and ensure that the deadlines listed on the progress report form are fulfilled. After fulfilling each requirement, it is required that the student make certain that the progress report form is updated by the committee chair.

Student Committees

Temporary Committees

The graduate program committee will appoint temporary committees for new students to serve for the first year. Each committee will consist of at least two full-time faculty from the School of Pharmacy. Each student will meet with their temporary committee the week before classes begin, and in March and September of the first year of the graduate program.

Thesis Committees

Students will choose the chair of their thesis committee subsequent to the successful completion of the preliminary examination and selection of a major advisor (at the end of the first year). The student’s major advisor cannot serve as chair of the thesis committee. The student together with the chair and major advisor will choose other members from the faculty of the school and at least one from outside the school who will serve on the thesis committee.

Thesis committees must consist of at least five faculty members, and will meet with the student every six months, starting in September at the beginning of the student’s second year. The graduate program director must approve the make-up of the thesis committee. The graduate program director will fill vacancies as they arise or make replacements when necessary, with consideration given to student/advisor recommendations.

Thesis committees shall evaluate the student’s progress to ensure that she or he has made satisfactory progress since the previous meeting. Upon calling the meeting to order, the Committee Chair will ask the student to leave the room to obtain feedback from the advisor regarding student progress. Upon completion, the student will be asked to return to the room and the thesis advisor will leave the room to obtain private feedback from the student regarding issues that might exist in terms of interactions with the advisor. It is also the responsibility of the committee chair to complete an on-line evaluation form summarizing the student’s progress. In case of a non-satisfactory performance, steps required to rectify the situation should be suggested in the report.

Doctor of Philosophy

In order to graduate, a student must satisfactorily complete the requirements described in A through H below as well as adhering to all requirements of the CU Anschutz Graduate School as defined in the Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Student Handbook .

A. Coursework and General Requirements

A program of study with required core courses will be designed by the chair of the temporary/thesis committee to accommodate the student’s long-range goals, possible undergraduate deficiencies, immediate research interests and the requirements of the Graduate School. A minimum of 30 semester hours of courses numbered 5000 or above is required for the degree. In addition to the coursework and requirements described below, students are expected to attend all seminars associated with the graduate program in pharmaceutical sciences. Also, each year the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences hosts a research retreat. Attendance at the retreat is mandatory, unless the program director permits the absence for overriding personal reasons. A presentation (oral or poster) by each student at the retreat is required.

B. Research Rotations

All PhD students must satisfactorily complete one research rotation in each of the fall and spring semesters of their first year. It is expected that the student will meet with his/her temporary committee the week before classes start in the fall semester to determine an appropriate research rotation for the ensuing fall semester. A research rotation is one semester in length, and the student must be housed in the lab in which the rotation is conducted. The student will present his/her research findings from each rotation in seminars (20 mins) to the graduate faculty (date arranged in advance by the director of the pharmaceutical sciences graduate program). In cases where a student opts for a third research rotation in the summer, a third rotation seminar is not required.

C. Seminars

In addition to rotation seminars and semiannual presentations to the thesis committee, all students enrolled in the program must present a thesis seminar to the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences that describes the findings from his/her thesis research. The thesis seminar is normally performed at the end of their PhD program.

D. Preliminary Examination

Each student will be required to undergo a preliminary examination during the summer of their first year in the program. This examination will consist of two half-day written examinations during the summer session. Selected faculty will contribute questions to the exam primarily focusing on the first year’s coursework. Students will be given the general topic areas for the exam questions at least one month prior to the examination date.

The director of the graduate program will be responsible for coordinating and administrating the examination. The preliminary examination is intended to test the student’s assimilation and understanding of material presented in coursework, and assess his/her ability to complete a doctoral–level course of study. It is expected that students will satisfactorily answer each question, but students are permitted to remediate one question if his/her answer is judged to be inadequate by the faculty member providing the question. In these instances, the individual faculty member will decide what constitutes appropriate remediation, and completion of remediation will be reported to the graduate program chair. Students that unsatisfactorily answer two or more preliminary examination questions will be dismissed from the graduate program.

E. Comprehensive Examination

The comprehensive examination will be administered by the chair of the student’s thesis committee. This committee must include the major advisor and at least four other members of the graduate faculty. At least one of the five members must be from outside the School. The comprehensive examination will serve as the formal test for admission to candidacy for the PhD degree and can only be taken after completion of 30 semester hours of graduate credit. The comprehensive examination will be completed by September 31 of the third year, after formal coursework is completed.

The examination shall consist of a written examination as well as an oral examination. The suggested format of the examination is for each faculty member to administer a separate written examination that can be completed within one day. The student should meet with members of the thesis committee individually to discuss the topic areas for the comprehensive examination. After the written portion of the comprehensive exam, students should meet with each member of the thesis committee to discuss the student’s performance on the written questions. It is expected that any weaknesses will be addressed in the oral portion of the exam that is to be taken within two weeks after completion of the written portion. Possible outcomes of the comprehensive examination are in accord with the CU Anschutz Graduate School rules and are Pass, Pass with Conditions, and Fail. A failed student may not continue in the program.

F. Thesis Proposal

In order to facilitate the partnership between the student and his/her Thesis Committee, students are required to submit a written thesis proposal that will subsequently be presented orally to the thesis committee. The written proposal is typically approximately 10 pages in length (single-spaced, not including references), and submitted to the thesis committee at least two weeks prior to the oral presentation. The precise format of the written proposal is left to the committee, but it should be a brief, well written document describing the overall research plan for the student’s thesis and include relevant preliminary data. It is expected that the student’s major advisor will have previewed and edited the written proposal prior to its distribution to the rest of the thesis committee. The oral presentation of the thesis proposal to the thesis committee must be completed by March 31 of the student’s third year in the program.

After presentation and approval of the thesis proposal, the student will update the members of his/her thesis committee on the progress toward completion of the thesis research at the semiannual meetings in March and September of each year. It is expected that members of the thesis committee will provide feedback and discuss potential problems at these semiannual meetings.

G. Thesis Research

All PhD candidates will be required to satisfactorily complete a research thesis. This work should be of sufficient scope and quality to result in a significant contribution to the literature. Students must successfully complete a minimum of 30 semester hours of thesis work. See the rules of the Graduate School describing time restrictions for submitting the finished thesis. A copy of the thesis must be submitted to the student’s thesis committee at least two weeks prior to the thesis defense. It is expected that the student’s major advisor will preview and edit the thesis prior to distribution to the rest of the thesis committee.

H. Thesis Defense

After submission of the thesis to the thesis committee, a seminar describing the thesis research will be presented by the student to the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences. Immediately following the oral presentation and questions from the attendees, the student will be examined separately by his/her thesis committee. Any changes to the thesis must be approved by the Thesis Committee prior to submission of the final thesis to the Graduate School. Although it is fully expected that problems with the thesis research will be addressed prior to the thesis defense, the thesis committee can require further research to be conducted before final approval of the thesis.

Summary schedule of degree requirements:

• First Year: Research rotations (2), rotation seminars (2), coursework, preliminary exam, selection of major advisor.
• Second Year: Commence thesis research, selection of thesis committee, coursework.
• Third Year: Comprehensive examination, thesis proposal.
• Prior to Completion: Submit written thesis to thesis committee, thesis defense.

Stipend, Insurance, Tuition and Fees

Although a priority of the School of Pharmacy is to provide financial support to its graduate students, stipend, tuition and fees for graduate studies in the School of Pharmacy are the sole responsibility of the student. Payment of stipend, tuition and any fees by the School of Pharmacy or by grants, contracts or gifts to the School of Pharmacy Faculty is contingent upon satisfactory academic progress (as defined by the Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Student Handbook ) and completion of required core courses, seminars, research rotations and examinations.

The School of Pharmacy also reserves the right to review and adjust its funding policies at any time. Stipends are awarded on a 12-month basis. All students are expected to work toward program requirements for 12 months of the year.

Probationary Status and Suspension

Continuation in the pharmaceutical sciences graduate program is dependent upon satisfactory academic progress as defined by:

• Timely and satisfactory completion of pharmaceutical sciences graduate program requirements (A-H above).
• Adherence to all policies, rules and regulation of the School of Pharmacy.

Students who do not remain in good graduate standing (3.0 GPA or above) or maintain satisfactory academic progress are placed on academic probation. Probation and suspension policies are described in the Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Student Handbook .

Payment of stipend, tuition, insurance and fees for a student while on academic probation is at the discretion of the graduate program committee.

Rajesh Agarwal PhD

Tom Anchordoquy BS, MA, PhD

Peter Anderson PharmD

Christina Aquilante PharmD

David Bain PhD

John Carpenter PhD

Carlos Catalano PharmD, PhD

Shaodong Dai PhD

Melanie Joy PharmD, PhD

Uday Kompella PhD, FARVO, FAAPS

Daniel LaBarbera PhD

Krishna Mallela PhD

Vanessa Phelan PhD

Philip Reigan PhD

Nichole Reisdorph PhD

Laura Saba PhD

Robert Scheinman PhD

Dmitri Simberg PhD

For questions regarding graduate school programs contact:.

Isabella Jaramillo Email:  [email protected]     Phone:  303.724.7263 ​​​​​

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PharmSci - Major and Minor Requirements

Major and minor requirements.

The Bachelor of Sciences in Pharmaceutical Sciences is a four-year degree program that will provide undergraduate students with comprehensive coursework and experiential education in Pharmaceutical Sciences.

View Course Descriptions

Pharmaceutical Sciences Major Requirements

Refer to the PharmSci Degree Requirement Checklist to see the most updated general education and major requirements.  Students who first enrolled at UArizona prior to Fall 2023 should scroll down to the archived course plans to view their general education and major requirements.

PharmSci Degree Requirement Checklist  (Effective Fall 2024)

PharmSci Sample Four-Year Degree Plan  (Effective Fall 2024)

Review Archived Plans & Checklists from Previous Years

2023/2024 Checklist & Plans 2022/2023 Checklist & Plans 2021/2022 Checklist & Plans 2020/2021 Checklist & Plans 2019/2020 Checklist & Plans 2018/2019 Checklist & Plans

Pharmaceutical Sciences Minor

The Pharmaceutical Sciences minor allows students to build on the science foundation gained in their major, and to apply those scientific concepts toward the understanding and development of more effective treatments.  This minor is an excellent supplement to majors in chemistry, physiology, biochemistry, biology, and other science majors, but can be a great fit for anyone with an interest in healthcare, the pharmaceutical industry, or biotechnology.

The minor requires a minimum of 18 PCOL units, from the approved minor course list.  Almost all minor courses require prerequisites in chemistry, physiology, and/or biology.  Schedule a meeting with or email a  PharmSci Advisor  in order to develop a course plan, and to formally declare the minor.  

Pharmaceutical Sciences Minor Requirements  - (Effective Fall 2024)

PHSCBS - Pharmaceutical Sciences

Program description, learning outcomes.

Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Department website: https://www.isu.edu/pharmacy/departments/biomedical-and-pharmaceutical-sciences/graduate-education/

Doctor of Philosophy

Programs of study leading to the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree are offered through the Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences (emphasis areas of Pharmaceutics, Drug Discovery, or Pharmacology) and through the Department of Pharmacy Practice and Administrative Sciences (emphasis in Pharmacoeconomics and Administrative Sciences). The Ph.D. degree is a research degree and will be conferred upon the completion and report of a substantial body of original work.

Admission Requirements

The student must apply to and meet all criteria for admission to the Graduate School. In addition to the general requirements of the Graduate School, the student must comply with the following:

• Professional degree in pharmacy or a baccalaureate degree in a related field (i.e., biology, chemistry, psychology).
• GPA of not less than 3.0 for all upper-division courses (final two years).
• Official report of Graduate Record Examination Scores with a minimum combined score of 300 is required on the verbal and quantitative sections and at least 50th percentile in one of the GRE sections (verbal, quantitative, or Analytical).
• Applicants must have a demonstrated proficiency in the English language. Students from countries where English is not the first language must demonstrate proficiency in the English language with a minimum score of 79 (internet‐based test) on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) OR an overall band of 6.5 on the Academic Examination of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
• Three letters of recommendation from individuals familiar with the applicant's academic ability and potential for graduate study.
• Applicants must provide a personal statement of interest describing their career goals and identify which area of emphasis in the graduate program the applicant intends to follow and members of the department faculty with whom the applicant would prefer to complete his/her degree. Applications without a personal statement following these guidelines will be rejected.

Meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Other factors such as research publications, other evidence of scholarly work, strong recommendations by department graduate faculty, or compatibility of the applicant's career goals with department programs may influence the Admissions Committee to recommend conditional acceptance in the event that minimum qualifications have not been met.

General Requirements

Each beginning graduate student will have a graduate advisor assigned from the graduate faculty upon entry into the program. The student’s advisor will assist the student in preparing an appropriate program of study of course work. While there is no fixed credit requirement for the Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences, the overall program of study will include at least 72 semester hours of graduate course work. The student is expected to have selected a major advisor from the graduate faculty no later than the end of his/her second semester in residence.

A grade below B is unsatisfactory and will not be counted toward fulfilling the minimum requirements for the degree. Upon recommendation of the student’s advisor, and with the approval of the Graduate Program Director, a student may be required to withdraw at any time for failure to maintain satisfactory progress toward the degree.

When coursework is essentially complete, candidates for the Ph.D. degree complete a series of written and oral comprehensive examinations that include the defense of a written research proposal. Upon completion of all proposed research, the student’s findings will be reported in the form of a dissertation to be prepared in accordance with Department and Graduate School guidelines. While the dissertation must be defended to the graduate faculty of the College, acceptability only requires the affirmative vote of a majority of the student’s committee members.

(Drug Discovery, Pharmaceutics, or Pharmacology Emphasis)

See General Admission Requirements above. Applications for the graduate program in Pharmaceutical Sciences are reviewed twice yearly near the end of the fall and spring semesters. Deadline for the receipt of applications is April 1 for admission in the fall semester, and October 1 for admission in the spring semester. Incomplete applications and applications received after these deadlines will not be considered.

International students should also refer to the "Admission of International Students" section of the Graduate Catalog. Students with international coursework to be considered with their applications must submit an official detailed evaluation report from an institution that is a member of the National Association of Credential Services Incorporated (NACSI).

Course Requirements

Repeatable course.

Minimum 20 credits required between Dissertation Research and Dissertation.

Students enrolled in the MS, PhD, PharmD/PhD, and PharmD/MS programs may take BIOL 6605 - Biometry, which is deemed an equivalent course to PSCI 6602 - Research Design and Analysis for Pharmaceutical Sciences. Either PSCI 6602 or BIOL 6605 is counted towards the core course requirements.

A minimum of 72 credits including a minimum of 20 credit hours in dissertation research ( PSCI 6698 ) and dissertation ( PSCI 8850 ) are required. For all degree candidates, at least one half of total graduate credit hours required by the student’s Graduate Program Committee must be 6600 level. Minimum graduate credit requirements usually do not fulfill Departmental degree requirements. Specific details are provided in the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences Graduate Guidelines.

All students in the graduate program, whether seeking the Doctor of Philosophy or the Master of Science, are expected to demonstrate proficiency in written and spoken English. Students may be required to successfully complete classes in speech and in technical writing at the request of the graduate program director and the graduate faculty of the Department of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences.

(Pharmacoeconomics and Administrative Sciences Emphasis)

Course requirements.

A student entering the Ph.D. program with an M.S. degree in a related area may petition the Advisory Committee to waive the elective 12 credits required in a minor area of study.

All students must have research experience prior to beginning the dissertation.  If a student has not completed an M.S. thesis, then s/he must complete a minimum of 3 credits of graduate research (PADM 6650) and complete a research project resulting in a paper of publishable quality.  If a student has completed an M.S. thesis, s/he may petition the Advisory Committee to accept it as fulfillment of this requirement.

For students enrolled in the PharmD/PhD and PharmD/MS dual degree programs who have completed PHAR9924, PHAR9921, PHAR9922, and PHAR9926, these course credits may be counted towards Electives in Pharmaceutical Sciences or Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences related courses under the MS and PhD Course Requirements.

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Doctoral Programs

Animal Comparative Biomedical Science

Pursue extensive formal classroom and research training within your field of choice as you perform state-of-the-art research and present your findings at national and international meetings. Students may apply to the ACBS PhD training program without an MS. 

Biosystems Analytics & Technology

Prepare for careers in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, which is the intersection of science, technology and analytics.  This program focuses on biological systems and water-related issues, such as irrigation and water quality, and biosystems applications like computer modeling, sensors and controls, and systems design.

Biosystems Engineering

Biosystems engineers use engineering, math and life science to design systems to manage soil and water resources, produce food, develop biological products, and manage and analyze large data sets. Work on projects involving wise use of energy, materials, biochemicals and recyclable wastes.

Entomology & Insect Sciences GIDP

Take on interdisciplinary doctoral training in the biology of insects. This program is flexible in its requirements, allowing students to design, in collaboration with faculty, programs of study tailored to individual interests and needs.

Environmental Science

Our distinguished faculty are experts in soil, air and water, and solutions-oriented in their research of today's most pressing environmental issues, from water quality and food safety to mining remediation and environmental justice.

Human Development & Family Science

This five-year doctoral program is designed to enrich knowledge in developmental, interpersonal and family theories while developing research skills and in-depth knowledge within a specialized content area chosen by the student.

Microbiology

Gain a postgraduate education in the basic science disciplines, including microbiology, immunology and food safety, while embracing an integrative approach to science. You will develop a broad academic foundation with a concentration in at least one science discipline.

Nutritional Sciences

This program leads in cutting-edge, interdisciplinary research that advances the discovery and translation of nutritional science and health. Explore outstanding opportunities that lead to an MS and a PhD in nutritional sciences while working directly with research faculty.

Natural Resources

This program gives you five emphasis areas to choose from: Ecology, Management and Restoration of Rangelands; Fisheries Conservation and Management; Natural Resource Studies; Watershed Management and Ecohydrology; and Wildlife Conservation and Management.

Plant Pathology

Prepare for careers in research and academia focused on microbes, particularly fungi and plant-associated bacteria and viruses, both beneficial and pathogenic.

Plant Science

Prepare for careers in research and academia focused on all aspects of plants, including interactions with abiotic and biotic factors.

• PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences

The PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PSC) program is a highly competitive doctoral degree program within the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy.

NIH Initiative for Maximizing Student Development (IMSD)

Learn about our program that supports biomedical graduate students from historically underrepresented backgrounds.

Training in a highly collaborative atmosphere, our graduates gain the knowledge and skills required for discovering novel biological pathways in human health and disease as well as for the development and delivery of medications for safe and effective therapy.

With state-of-the-art facilities, funding from the National Institutes of Health, the National Science Foundation, the Food and Drug Administration, and pharmaceutical industry, students receive mentorship that prepares them for outstanding careers in academia, the federal government, and the pharmaceutical industry.

This three-minute video presents an overview of the PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences program at the University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, showcasing how the program prepares students to become leaders in the fields of drug discovery and development.

Current faculty and students are making headlines at the School of Pharmacy and beyond.

• February 12, 2024 My UMSOP Story: Angie Nguyen, PhD '16, research director
• November 1, 2023 Grad Gathering Welcomes Alums of PSC, PHSR, and Regulatory Science Programs
• October 23, 2023 School Names Three New Academic Program Directors

I was drawn to the PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences program by its diverse areas of research and collaborative environment. Knowing that I could tackle my research interest from many angles – including biochemistry, chemistry, and molecular biology – greatly appealed to me. PSC faculty members are very knowledgeable and have a profound understanding of their research areas. All of the professors work together to answer any research questions that students have.

Connecting with Gloria Coronado

New Center for Health Disparities Research director sees community partnerships, outreach as key to closing health disparity gap.

Gloria Coronado, PhD, has a joint appointment to lead the Center for Health Disparities in the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health and as the associate director of Population Sciences and holds the Maynard Chair in Prevention Research at the Cancer Center.

Gloria Coronado, PhD , joined the  University of Arizona Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health to lead the  Center for Health Disparities Research in November and has a joint appoint with the  UArizona Cancer Center . She brought with her a passion for examining how factors like the COVID-19 pandemic impact cancer screenings and care. That’s not surprising since she joined the university from Kaiser Permanente Northwest Center for Health Research, where she led a program on health disparities research that focused on community health centers, Medicaid health plans and rural clinics. 

Gloria Coronado, PhD, speaks with Karl Krupp, PhD, an assistant professor of public health practice in the Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health. Coronado leads an NCI-funded RESTORE study, which looks at how COVID-19 has affected cancer screenings and follow-ups for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers.

As part of her joint appointment, Coronado is also the associate director of Population Sciences and holds the Maynard Chair in Prevention Research at the Cancer Center. There, she will recruit and develop population-based researchers focused on underserved and under-researched communities. 

Health Sciences Connect caught up with Coronado recently to discuss how digital epidemiology and big data can help close health-disparity gaps as well as why diversity is critical in research.

You’ve been at the University of Arizona since November. What has been the biggest surprise for you?

The most surprising aspect has been the abundance of opportunities for community-engaged research available here. The Zuckerman College of Public Health and the UArizona Cancer Center boast numerous strengths, including a diverse population in the catchment area; dedicated and collaborative scientists; and robust community partnerships.

What area are you particularly excited about?

I am excited about leveraging academic and community partnerships and the rich data resources available at the University of Arizona. Scientists here have successfully taken advantage of large epidemiologic cohorts and the university has access to statewide Medicaid claims data (2.5 million covered lives). Historically, our research enterprise has relied on data from non-Hispanic white people, predominantly males. I am eager to contribute to national goals on the representation of medically underserved groups in clinical trials and research. Specifically, I am interested in using Medicaid claims data and geography-based tools to identify areas of low cancer screening participation. By forming strategic partnerships with community organizations and clinics that serve these areas, we can assess social drivers of health and deliver health services to areas and populations that need them the most. 

What unique barriers exist in Arizona?

Geographic factors can present challenges, especially in rural areas where access to health care services, including cancer screenings and treatment facilities, may be limited. This disparity underscores the importance of outreach programs and telehealth initiatives to ensure equitable access to cancer care and prevention service across the state. 

Unique environmental factors create challenges and opportunities, such as exposure to ultraviolet radiation from the sun. Luckily, the university has a strong Skin Cancer Institute , which focuses research on prevention strategies, public education campaigns and early detection efforts tailored to the local community. 

One significant opportunity is the diverse demographic makeup of the state. Understanding and addressing the specific needs and disparities within these populations require tailored approaches and culturally sensitive interventions. With the U.S. population becoming increasingly diverse, I'm thrilled that the university is taking the lead in spearheading these crucial efforts for our nation.

Overall, addressing these unique barriers requires collaborative efforts among researchers, health care providers, community organizations and policymakers to develop comprehensive strategies that promote cancer prevention, early detection and access to quality care for all populations in the state. 

How can digital epidemiology reduce health care disparities?

The COVID-19 pandemic really highlighted the need for alternative ways to connect with patients beyond traditional face-to-face visits. That's where digital health comes in. But here's the catch, a lot of these digital tools aren't designed with diverse populations in mind. Many app-based tools used to engage study participants are only being used for English-speaking populations. I believe that by teaming up with local groups and tapping into the diverse communities here, the university can lead the charge in making digital health more inclusive. 

Purnima Madhivanan, PhD, MBBS, MPH , and others have already made strides in creating digital stories to raise awareness about HPV vaccination. Similarly, my team has been working on short videos and fotonovelas and testing programs that send these communications via text to encourage colorectal cancer screenings in Hispanic communities.

Gloria Coronado, PhD

How will the use of big data close the gap on health disparities?

When you talk about big data, it’s a bit of a double-edged sword in health care disparities. On the one hand, it has the power to reveal and address those gaps; but on the other, it can also perpetuate them if the data isn’t representative. We’ve seen a trend where prediction models, based on limited data from underrepresented groups, end up leading to less accurate care. As scientists, it is crucial that we make a conscious effort to include diverse populations in our big data analyses. 

That’s why I’m so passionate about my NCI-funded RESTORE study, which looks at how COVID-19 has affected cancer screenings and follow-ups for breast, cervical and colorectal cancers. We’re diving into data from the largest federally qualified health center in the United States, where upward of 83% of patients are ethnically Hispanic. By understanding their experiences, we can update disaster preparedness plans to better serve clinics like these. I truly believe the university is in a prime position to take the lead nationally in these critical efforts. 

The social determinants of health include historical and current unequal distribution of resources. How does a lack of diverse researchers impact this?

I recently served on the National Academies of Sciences and Engineering Committee on Improving Representation of Women and Minorities in Clinical Trials and Research. A key recommendation of that group was to diversify our scientific workforce. By having scientists from diverse backgrounds and experience, we can more successfully reach communities so that they receive the benefits of our scientific discoveries. 

What can be done to increase the diversity of researchers?

Given its Hispanic-serving designation, the university has a special chance to nurture its own diverse talent pool. Offering robust training programs for students and fostering a culture that values mentorship can greatly contribute to grooming the upcoming generation of varied and skilled scientists .

What role does diversity, equity and inclusion play in eliminating health disparities?

It plays a huge role. It’s not just about advancing science to find new ways to diagnose or treat disease, it’s also about who’s at the table making decisions about guidelines and policies at all levels. We need a diverse scientific workforce that reflects the communities we serve. When people from diverse backgrounds and experiences come together, we get a more comprehensive understanding of health needs and we come up with better solutions. When team members with diverse backgrounds collaborate, they can combine their expertise and experiences to generate novel approaches and breakthrough discoveries. 

So, it’s not just a nice-to-have, it’s a must-have if we’re serious about closing gaps in health and health care. 

What advice would you give to young people interested in a similar career?

My advice to aspiring scientists and researchers is to remain curious and persistent. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, collaborate with diverse teams and never underestimate the value of interdisciplinary approaches. Remember, every setback is a steppingstone toward new discoveries and contributions to science.

Career Development

For students interested in federal jobs.

• B.A. and B.S. graduates apply for GS-5-GS-7 level positions.
• To see what jobs are available based on your major, visit: USAJOBS Help Center | Federal occupations by college major
• U.S. Intelligence Community options: U.S. Intelligence Community careers - Join the Intelligence Community (intelligencecareers.gov)
• How to use filters in USAJOBS: USAJOBS Help Center | How to filter results by series
• Recent Graduates: Students & Recent Graduates (opm.gov)
• Professionals with a disability: USAJOBS Help Center | Individuals with disabilities
• Veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces: USAJOBS Help Center | Veterans
• List of all government agencies: A-Z index of U.S. government departments and agencies | USAGov
• Federal careers based on interests: Career Guides • Go Government
• Application process: USAJOBS - The Federal Government's official employment site
• Understanding the GS system: USAJOBS Help Center | What is a series or grade?
• How to build a federal resume: USAJOBS Help Center | How to build a resume
• Writing a federal resume: Writing a Federal Resume • Go Government
• What to include: USAJOBS Help Center | What should I include in my federal resume?
• Federal resume writing video: Resume Writing (youtube.com)

Federal Internship Information:

• All current students can apply for internships with the federal government: Students & Recent Graduates (opm.gov)
• Federal Internship Finder tool: Federal Internship Finder • Go Government

Undergraduate Career Planning Guide

Freshman year.

• Create initial resume using the SGPP Template found in "SGPP Students" D2L page Homepage - SGPP Students (arizona.edu)
• Start getting involved with extracurricular activities and organizations.
• Consider taking a Myers-Briggs or Career Exploration test. 
• Research different careers by SGPP majors and visit the internship resources page SGPP Internships | School of Government and Public Policy | University of Arizona

Sophomore Year

• Continue to do well in your courses and begin to narrow your career interests.
• If you are uncertain of your career path, take courses in different areas with different topics and volunteer with organizations in the fields you are interested in pursuing.
• Attend career panels and job fairs offered by the university.
• Stay involved with clubs and extracurricular activities. 

Junior Year

• Update your resume and identify mentors, professors, or supervisors that can serve as references.
• Consider running for a leadership position within a student organization.
• Find and secure an internship.
• Consider applying for The Washington Center Scholarship/internship The Washington Center Internship | School of Government and Public Policy | University of Arizona
• Meet with a career advisor to discuss your resume, cover letters, and interviewing strategies.
• Research scholarships and post-graduation options (grad schools, public sector jobs, non-profits, and government agencies)

Senior Year

• Update your resume after internship completion.
• If you do not have relevant work experience, securing an internship is a priority. 
• Consider applying for other internships during the academic year.
• Continue to check in with the career advisors to discuss job opportunities, tailored resumes, and interviewing tips.
• Begin applying for jobs and/or graduate school. 

Resources for MPA/MPP and Ph.D. Candidates

• University of Arizona's Graduate Center Career Services page: Career Services | Graduate Center (arizona.edu)
• Political Science Job listings: American Political Science Association > CAREERS > eJobs (apsanet.org)
• Notify your Ph.D. advisor and other letter writers several months in advance, typically in the spring semester before you go on the job market.
• Compile your CV (see one-pager in the SGPP Students D2L page) Resume, CV, Gov't job resources - SGPP Students (arizona.edu) You can also utilize Overleaf for CV Creation for free: Gallery - Templates, Examples and Articles written in LaTeX - Overleaf, Online LaTeX Editor
• Cover Letters
• Write a research statement & compile teaching materials (syllabi and course evaluations). 
• Write a teaching statement.
• How to find a job at a small college: Strategies for Landing a Job at a Small College (chronicle.com)

Graduate and Law School Application

• Talk with faculty members about graduate school. They can offer guidance about the specialties of different schools, which universities are most likely to admit you, and what you can do after earning a graduate degree. 
• Understand the various prerequisite requirements of each school you are interested in applying to. Requirements will vary, but many graduate programs in political science or public policy require calculus, microeconomics, macroeconomics, and foreign language proficiency. Some schools will not accept AP credit for these prerequisites. You are strongly encouraged to begin researching graduate schools a year before submitting applications. More information can be found on individual school websites. 
• The GRE and LSAT are the Graduate Record Examination and the Law School Admission Test. The GRE is often the required entrance exam for graduate school, while the LSAT is the required entrance exam for most law schools. Note: The University of Arizona Law School will accept either the GRE, LSAT, or the JD-Next exam as part of their required application materials. More UA Law admission information can be found here: How to Apply - General Requirements | University of Arizona Law If you plan to attend law school in the fall after your May graduation, take the test no later than December of your senior year. 
• Most graduate programs will require two letters of recommendation. These should detail your analytical abilities and writing skills. Request letters of recommendation from faculty several months in advance of the application due date. 
• Create a personal statement, typically, no longer than four pages, that clarifies your unique characteristics, personal qualities, education and work experiences, talents, background, community involvement, and why you are pursuing a graduate degree. 
• Update your resume and include GPA under the education section.
• Requirements for international students may be different. Check school websites for more details. 
• B.A. in Law advising, Linus Kafka: [email protected]
• Pre-law advising, Chester White: [email protected]  

• Newsletters

Grad Slam In-Person Semifinal Round Afternoon Heat (2024)

After months of workshops on effective presentation, months of training to engage a diverse audience, and months of practicing, refining, practicing, and perfecting, graduate students competed in the preliminary rounds and semifinalists emerged. Their hard work and passion come together in our annual campus-wide competition for the best 3-minute graduate student presentation of a research or creative project. Grad Slam is an excellent opportunity for students to enhance their communication skills. It is also an effective way to showcase the innovative research and creative work associated with graduate education at the University of Arizona. And it’s an inspiring occasion to support our students as they shape a changing world.

Come support our stellar students and prepare to be inspired at GRAD SLAM 2024!

RSVP on Trellis to let us know you are coming or if you plan to watch the livestream.

Presentation Schedule

1.    Anesu Samuel Masango, Clinical Translational Sciences 2.    Nathalia Vega Santiago, Planetary Sciences  3.    Milad Hasankhani, Nutritional Sciences 4.    Wanjiru Kamau-Devers, Medical Pharmacology MD-PhD program 5.    Mateo Pomilia, Native American Languages and Linguistics 6.    Sarah Blomquist, Nutritional Sciences 7.    Mourad Abdennebi, Second Language Acquisition  8.    Sankha Subhra Mahanti, Geosciences 9.    Elia Bueno. Human Development and Family Science  10.    Joseph Adams, Pharmaceutical Sciences  

SUBMIT A STORY IDEA

MIS, Earth sciences at UArizona ranked among nation's best by US News & World Report

Chris Richards/University Communications

Updated May 11, 2023

Several University of Arizona graduate programs across a variety of disciplines have been recognized among the best in the nation in U.S. News & World Report's latest Best Graduate Schools rankings.

The annual list, released April 25, again ranked the Eller College of Management 's program in management information systems No. 1 among public universities and No. 3 overall, behind Carnegie Mellon University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.

Programs in the UArizona Department of Geosciences , housed in the College of Science , also continued to rank among the nation's best. UArizona's doctoral program in Earth sciences rose five spots to tie for No. 4 overall and rank No. 2 among public universities. The following Earth sciences subspecialties also earned strong scores: geology (tied for No. 5 overall, No. 3 among public universities), geochemistry (tied for No. 6 overall, tied for No. 4 among public universities) and geophysics/seismology (No. 15 overall, No. 8 among public universities).

The university's rehabilitation counseling program in the College of Education was also ranked a top-10 program, tied for No. 10 overall and tied for No. 9 among public institutions. The College of Education also had a strong showing in higher education administration (No. 17 overall, No. 11 among public universities) and education psychology (No. 21 overall, No. 16 among public universities). The college's overall ranking was tied for No. 58 overall and tied for No. 44 among public universities.

"I am proud to see such a wide variety of our graduate programs deservedly recognized among the nation's best," said University of Arizona President  Robert C. Robbins . "Graduate students are essential to all of our research initiatives and teaching programs. Those who choose to take part in a University of Arizona graduate program do so knowing they will be given the opportunity to excel in scholarship, teaching and career preparation."

Eller's McGuire Center for Entrepreneurship tied for No. 17 overall and tied for No. 7 among public universities. The college's accounting program tied for No. 40 overall, while the part-time MBA program tied for No. 56 overall and the full-time MBA program tied for No. 53 overall.

The University of Arizona College of Medicine – Tucson earned its best ranking on the U.S. News & World Report diversity index (No. 17 overall and No. 12 among public universities). The College of Medicine – Tucson also earned strong marks for its programs in primary care (tied for No. 53), rural health (No. 72) and research (No. 63).

U.S. News & World Report also ranks colleges and universities by the percentage of 2014-16 graduates practicing direct patient care in geographic regions that are experiencing health professional shortages. The College of Medicine – Phoenix was ranked No. 64 in this category and College of Medicine – Tucson was ranked No. 69.

The colleges also secured strong placements in the number of 2014-16 graduates who are now practicing as primary care physicians (tied for No. 77 overall for the College of Medicine – Tucson and ranked No. 132 for the College of Medicine – Phoenix). The College of Medicine – Phoenix was ranked No. 115 in the rural health category.

The UArizona College of Veterinary Medicine earned recognition in U.S. News & World Report's first ranking of veterinary medicine doctoral programs, placing No. 30 overall and No. 26 among public universities.

The School of Government and Public Policy , housed in the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences , tied for No. 39 on the list of public affairs programs, with a subspecialty in public management/leadership also earning recognition at No. 30 overall.

Other College of Science graduate programs ranked this year were in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry (tied for No. 51, with a No. 13 overall ranking in the analytical chemistry subspecialty), the Department of Physics (tied for No. 35 overall), the Department of Computer Science (tied for No. 50 overall) and the Department of Mathematics (tied for No. 43 overall).

The Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health tied for No. 43 in the publication's ranking of public health programs. The College of Nursing tied for No. 31 in doctoral programs and tied for No. 41 in master's programs on the annual Best Nursing Schools list.

The James E. Rogers College of Law earned its best mark in the legal writing specialty, tied for No. 8 overall and tied for No. 4 among public universities. The college tied for No. 54 overall on the Best Law Schools list. The following specialties also were ranked:

• Health care law (tied for No. 29)
• Dispute resolution (tied for No. 34)
• Constitutional law (tied for No. 35)
• Business/corporate law (tied for No. 36)
• International law (tied for No. 38)
• Environmental law (tied for No. 39)
• Criminal law (tied for No. 45)
• Clinical training (tied for No. 45)
• Contracts/commercial law (tied for No. 59)
• Tax law (tied for No. 62)
• Intellectual property (tied for No. 67)
• Trial advocacy (tied for No. 80)

The College of Engineering tied for No. 63 on the Best Engineering Schools list, with rankings in the following subspecialties:

• Industrial/manufacturing/systems (tied for No. 21)
• Environmental (tied for No. 31)
• Aerospace/aeronautical/astronautical (tied for No. 32)
• Civil (tied for No. 41)
• Material (tied for No. 51)
• Biomedical/bioengineering (tied for No. 50)
• Electrical/electronic/communications (tied for No. 54)
• Mechanical (tied for No. 53)
• Chemical (tied for No. 55)

Each year, U.S. News & World Report ranks graduate schools and programs in several academic disciplines. The rankings in these areas are based on expert opinions about program excellence and statistical indicators that measure the quality of a school's faculty, research and students.

Beyond the categories ranked annually, U.S. News also periodically ranks programs in the sciences, social sciences, library sciences, humanities, health and many other areas based solely on the ratings of academic experts.

Previous rankings

Several other UArizona graduate programs appear on the U.S. News list, but their rankings were not subject to review this year. In previous updates, UArizona earned top-10 placements in photography (tied for No. 3 overall, No. 2 among public universities), speech language pathology (tied for No. 6 overall, No. 3 among public universities) and audiology (tied for No. 10 overall, No. 6 among public universities).

In other previous updates, the College of Social and Behavioral Sciences' graduate program in Latin American history tied for No. 10 overall and tied for No. 5 among public universities. UArizona earned top-30 rankings for the School of Sociology (No. 26 overall, No. 13 among public universities) and the library and information science program (No. 27 overall, No. 24 among public universities). The Department of Psychology tied for No. 35 overall.

The doctoral program in political science was ranked No. 50. UArizona's doctoral program in biological sciences tied for No. 50 overall and tied for No. 12 in the ecology subspecialty (tied for No. 5 among public universities). The statistics and data science graduate interdisciplinary program tied for No. 54 overall. The Department of History 's graduate program tied for No. 54 overall, and the Department of English 's graduate program tied for No. 69 overall.

For a full list of rankings, visit https://www.usnews.com/best-graduate-schools .

Resources for the Media

Nick Prevenas Director, Media Relations, University Communications [email protected] 520-621-2194

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