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Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS)

This Program is designed for students seeking careers in pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, governmental agencies (FDA, NIH), drug discovery and development, biomedical and clinical research, regulatory sciences, healthcare organizations, and health outcomes research. The program also provides a strong foundation for students pursuing PhD, PharmD, MD, DO, DMD, or other advanced professional degrees. Through the rigorous coursework, hands-on learning, Faculty mentorship, research, experience, and professional development, students develop the scientific, analytical, technical, and research skills needed to succeed in a rapidly evolving pharmaceutical and healthcare outcomes.

Four Specialized Tracks. One Strong Foundation.

Choose from four specialized areas that allow you to build expertise aligned with your career goals:

Medicinal Chemistry

Discover and design innovative therapeutics.

The Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS) with a concentration in Medicinal Chemistry provides advanced training in drug discovery and development through rigorous pharmaceutical sciences coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences. Students gain specialized expertise in computational drug design, organic synthesis, structure–activity relationship analysis, and molecular evaluation of therapeutic compounds. The program prepares graduates to contribute to the discovery and optimization of innovative medicines that address unmet healthcare needs.

Larkin University MSPS Graduates are equipped for impactful careers in pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, research laboratories, regulatory organizations, and academia, or for pursuing advanced doctoral and professional degrees in pharmaceutical sciences and related fields.

Pharmaceutics

Advance drug formulation, delivery, and development

The Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS)ÌýÌýwith a concentration in Pharmaceutics provides advanced training in drug product development through comprehensive pharmaceutical sciences coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences. Students develop specialized knowledge and skills in formulation design, drug delivery systems, pharmacokinetics, and bioanalytical approaches essential for the development and evaluation of safe and effective therapies. The program prepares graduates to contribute to innovative research and the advancement of pharmaceutical products that improve patient care and healthcare outcomes.

Larkin University MSPS Graduates are equipped for impactful careers in pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, research laboratories, regulatory organizations, and academia, or for pursuing advanced doctoral and professional degrees in pharmaceutical sciences and related fields.

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Pharmacology & Toxicology

Investigate drug action, efficacy, and safety
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The Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS)ÌýÌýwith a concentration in Pharmacology and Toxicology provides advanced training in drug action, safety evaluation, and therapeutic development through comprehensive pharmaceutical sciences coursework and hands-on laboratory experiences. Students gain specialized knowledge and skills in molecular and cellular pharmacology, drug metabolism, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, bioanalysis, toxicological principles, and safety assessment of therapeutic agents. The program prepares graduates to evaluate the efficacy, mechanisms of action, and potential risks of pharmaceuticals while contributing to the development of safer and more effective therapies.

Larkin University MSPS Graduates are equipped for impactful careers in pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, research laboratories, regulatory organizations, and academia, or for pursuing advanced doctoral and professional degrees in pharmaceutical sciences and related fields

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Pharmacoeconomics & Health Outcomes

Evaluate the value, effectiveness, and real-world impact of healthcare interventions

The Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS)ÌýÌýwith a concentration in Pharmacoeconomics and Health Outcomes provides advanced training in health economics, outcomes research, and evidence-based healthcare decision-making. Built on comprehensive pharmaceutical sciences coursework and applied research methodologies, the program equips students with specialized knowledge and skills in economic evaluation, health outcomes assessment, real-world evidence generation, and healthcare policy analysis. Students learn to evaluate the clinical, economic, and humanistic impact of pharmaceutical interventions and healthcare strategies to support informed decisions that improve healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Larkin University MSPS Graduates are prepared for careers in pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, health outcomes research, managed care organizations, healthcare systems, government and regulatory agencies, consulting, and academia, or for pursuing advanced doctoral studies in related fields.

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The Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS) Program qualifies as a STEM program with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Classification of Instructional Programs under theÌý

Accreditation:

Larkin University College of Pharmacy’s Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS) is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC); Contact Information: 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, GA 30033-4097; Phone: (404) 679-4500.

For further information about our accreditation, please contact us by email: copgrad@larkin.edu

Why Choose the MSPS at Larkin University College of Pharmacy?

The M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS) at Larkin University College of Pharmacy offers a student-centered graduate education designed to prepare future professionals and innovators in pharmaceutical sciences, biomedical research, healthcare, and health outcomes.

With four specialized areas of study, flexible learning options, faculty mentorship, and opportunities for research and professional development, the MSPS program allows you to shape your graduate education around your academic interests and career goals.

Whether your interests lie in discovering new medicines, developing innovative drug delivery systems, understanding drug action and safety, or evaluating the value and real-world impact of healthcare interventions, the LUCOP MSPS program provides flexible pathways to help you pursue your academic and professional goals.

1: Choose Your Area of Specialization

Medicinal Chemistry

Explore the discovery, design, synthesis, and optimization of new therapeutic agents.

Pharmaceutics

Study drug formulation, delivery systems, biopharmaceutics, and pharmaceutical product development.

Pharmacology & Toxicology

Examine drug action, therapeutic effects, safety, toxicity, and the biological evaluation of medicines.

Pharmacoeconomics & Health Outcomes

Evaluate the clinical, economic, and real-world impact of healthcare interventions.

2: Designed Around Your Goals

Two Academic Pathways

Choose a Thesis or Non-Thesis (Capstone) pathway based on your academic and career goals.

Research Experience

Gain hands-on experience through laboratory, computational, clinical, or health outcomes research.

Flexible Learning

Learn through in-person or live online program delivery options.

Personalized Mentorship

Benefit from small class sizes, close faculty interaction, and individualized academic support.

3: Learn from Experts. Grow Through Experience.

Expert Faculty: Learn from experienced faculty members and researchers with expertise across Pharmaceutical sciences, Pharmacoeconomics, and Health outcomes research.

Hands-On Research Opportunities: Apply what you learn through faculty-mentored research experiences using experimental, computational, clinical, and health outcomes research methodologies.

Teaching & Research Assistantships: Eligible students may have opportunities to participate in teaching and research assistantships that provide valuable professional experience and financial support.

Internship & Experiential Opportunities: Gain exposure to real-world professional environments through internship and collaborative opportunities with the Larkin Health System and other healthcare, industry, and research partners.

4: Study in the Heart of South Florida

Located in Miami Gardens, Florida

Study in a diverse and dynamic region with access to major healthcare networks, biomedical research institutions, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and a wide range of clinical and research opportunities.

5: A Career-Focused Graduate Education

The MSPS curriculum is designed to help students build advanced knowledge and professional skills applicable to careers and further education in:

    • Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology IndustriesÌý
    • Drug Discovery & DevelopmentÌý
    • Biomedical and Pharmaceutical ResearchÌý
    • Clinical ResearchÌý
    • Regulatory Sciences
    • Governmental Agencies (FDA, NIH)Ìý
    • Health Outcomes ResearchÌý
    • Healthcare OrganizationsÌý
    • Academic and Research InstitutionsÌý
    • Ph.D. and Other Advanced Professional Programs

About the Programs

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COURSECREDITTHESISNON-THESIS

YEAR 1 – Fall SEMESTER

Foundation of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Sciences3✔✔
Research Methods3✔✔
Ethics, Scientific Writing and Communication in Research2✔✔
Graduate Seminar I1✔✔
Research Rotation I1✔✔
TOTAL CREDITS10

YEAR 1 – SPRING SEMESTER

Biostatistics & Data Analysis2✔✔
Track-Oriented Core (Choose ONE)
1: Introduction to Pharmacology and Toxicology
2: Chemical Basis of Drug Action
3: Introduction to Pharmaceutics
4: US Healthcare System
3✔✔
Drug Development and Regulatory Affairs3✔✔
Graduate Seminar II1✔✔
Research Rotation II1✔✔
TOTAL CREDITS10

YEAR 1 – SUMMER SEMESTER

Research/Internship3✔✔
TOTAL CREDITS3

YEAR 2 – Fall SEMESTER

Track-ORIENTED Advanced Topics in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Choose ONE)
1: Advanced Pharmacology and Toxicology
2: Advanced Synthetic and Medicinal Chemistry
3: Advanced Pharmaceutics
4: Pharmacoeconomics & Health Outcomes
3✔✔
Elective [Track-ORIENTED]3✔✔
Graduate Seminar III1✔✔
Directed Research I (Thesis option) / Capstone Project (Non-thesis option)3✔✔
TOTAL CREDITS10

YEAR 2 – SPRING SEMESTER

Directed Research II, Thesis, and Defense9✔
TOTAL CREDITS9

In exceptional cases, a student and faculty member may identify resources for the execution of a research thesis project that meets the capstone requirement. Completion of the curriculum and successful conduct and defense of a master’s thesis is an alternative path to the MS in Pharmaceutical Sciences at Larkin University College of Pharmacy. The MS program learning objectives for the MS thesis path are:

    1. Demonstrate knowledge of core concepts in basic and clinical pharmaceutical sciences.
    2. Critically evaluate the scientific literature.
    3. Demonstrate proficiency in subject matter related to thesis research.
    4. Demonstrate proficiency in assimilating and interpreting assigned subject matter.
    5. Develop basic skills in the responsible conduct of research.
      • Formulate hypotheses based on current concepts.
      • Design and conduct research projects.
      • Critically analyze findings in the context of existing literature.
    6. Communicate research results effectively through oral presentations and written reports and publications.
    7. Present research results at regional or national meetings, and in peer-reviewed publications or thesis.
    8. Establish a professional plan for a career in science.
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Completion of the curriculum and execution of a final capstone project is the primary path to the MS in Pharmaceutical Sciences at Larkin University College of Pharmacy. The MS program learning objectives for the capstone path are:

  1. Demonstrate knowledge of core concepts in basic and administrative pharmaceutical sciences.
  2. Critically evaluate the scientific literature.
  3. Demonstrate proficiency in assimilating and interpreting assigned subject matter.
  4. Develop basic skills in the responsible conduct of research.
    • Formulate hypotheses based on current concepts.
    • Design potential research projects.
    • Plan data analyses in the context of existing literature.
  5. Communicate scientific assessments (e.g., literature reviews) effectively through oral presentations and written reports.
  6. Establish a professional plan for a career in science.
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CriteriaTHESISNON-THESIS (CAPSTONE)
Length21-24 months15-18 months
Required Minimum Credits36 credits30 credits
ResearchFaculty-mentored original research (Directed Research Projects)

– Research Rotations
Summer

– Research/Internship Experience
Applied capstone project

– Research Rotations
Summer

– Research/Internship Experience



Project requirementThesis + defenseFinal project/report/presentation
Career PathIdeal for preparation for professional health degree programs (e.g., PharmD, MD, or DO) and PhD programs and prepares for professional careers in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, healthcare, regulatory, and related industries.
*Program Delivery1. IN-PERSON
2. ONLINE (Synchronous and/or Asynchronous)
*Delivery format subject to course availability and program
Based on the concentration and program pathway (thesis/non-thesis), the mode of delivery can be on-campus and online (synchronous and/or asynchronous).

Notes on Course and Summer Research/Internship and Research

  • Elective Courses: Electives may not be offered every semester. Students must select electives in consultation with their faculty advisor, and all elective selections require approval by the Graduate Committee to ensure alignment with the student’s selected track, academic goals, and career objectives.Ìý
  • Summer Research/Internship Experience (3 credits):
    During the P1 Summer semester, students may complete a supervised Summer Research Experience or Internship to gain hands-on experience in pharmaceutical sciences research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical industry practices, regulatory science, or related professional settings. Students are mentored by faculty members or industry preceptors and complete the experience through a written report, presentation, or other approved assessment. This experience fulfills research-oriented credit requirements within the program.Ìý
  • Directed Research Project or Capstone Project Requirements:
    For the Directed Research Project (thesis option) or Capstone Project (non-thesis option), students are expected to dedicate approximately 20 hours per week during a 15-week semester toward project-related activities. These activities may include laboratory research, computational studies, data analysis, regulatory or industry-focused projects, literature evaluation, interpretation of results, preparation of scientific reports or professional portfolios, and regular consultation with faculty mentors. Project expectations are designed to meet graduate-level credit-hour requirements and provide students with practical skills applicable to careers in pharmaceutical sciences.Ìý

Students pursuing the thesis option must complete a minimum of 36 graduate credits, including:

  1. Shared Core Courses: 16 credits
  2. Track-Oriented Core Courses: 6 credits
  3. Research Rotations: 2 credits
  4. Summer Research/Internship Experience: 3 credits
  5. Elective Courses: 3 credits
  6. Directed Research Project I & II: 9 credits total

Thesis-track students are required to conduct original research under the guidance of a faculty mentor, prepare a written thesis, and successfully defend their thesis before a graduate committee as a requirement for graduation.

Students pursuing the non-thesis option must complete a minimum of 30 graduate credits, including:

    1. Shared Core Courses: 16 credits
    2. Track-Oriented Core Courses: 6 credits
    3. Research Rotation: 2 credits
    4. Summer Research/Internship Experience: 3 credits
    5. Elective Courses: 3 credits
    6. Capstone Project: 3 credits

Non-thesis students complete an applied Capstone Project that integrates knowledge and skills gained throughout the program and demonstrate competency through a final written report, presentation, or portfolio.

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Thesis PathwayNon-Thesis Pathway
Program Length2 Years (21–24 months)1.5 Years (15–18 months)
Tuition – Year 1$30,000$30,000
Tuition – Year 2$30,000$15,000
Total Tuition$60,000$45,000
Total Mandatory Fees$3,850$2,950
Total Program Cost$63,850$47,950

Faculty & Staff

For a current listing of faculty, researchers, projects and contact information, please visit: https

FAQs

For more information about the MS in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS) program, please email copgrad@larkin.edu.

Taraman Kadayat, Ph.D., M.S., B.Pharm., GCCTL
Assistant Professor of Pharmaceutical Sciences

There are 3 main reasons:

1: A rapidly evolving field needs advanced expertise.

Advances in pharmaceutical sciences are transforming how medicines are discovered, developed, evaluated, and delivered. Today’s professionals increasingly work across disciplines involving: Small-Molecule Drugs, Peptides, Biologics, Nucleic Acid–Based Therapies, Drug Delivery, Clinical Research, Real-World Evidence, Health Outcomes

Our programs are designed to help students develop the knowledge and skills needed to engage with these emerging areas.

2: Build Skills for a Growing Industry

A projected employment growth of 9% for medical scientists in next 10 years (2024–2034), which is faster than the average projected growth for all occupations.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics the continued growth of pharmaceutical, biotechnology, biomedical research, and healthcare industries is creating opportunities for professionals with advanced scientific, analytical, and research expertise

A Growing Life Sciences Ecosystem

Florida is home to a diverse and expanding life sciences sector spanning pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, medical devices, healthcare, and biomedical research.

  • 30,000+ Floridians employed in biotechnology, pharmaceutical manufacturing, and medical device manufacturing.
  • Growing Life Sciences: Continued business growth, capital investment, and job creation across Florida’s life sciences industries.
  • Strong STEM Pipeline: Florida’s colleges and universities contribute a growing workforce of STEM-trained graduates (Sources: Florida Department of Commerce; SelectFlorida; IBISWorld).

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LUCOP MSPS Program is designed for students seeking careers in pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, governmental agencies (FDA, NIH), drug discovery and development, biomedical and clinical research, regulatory sciences, healthcare organizations, and health outcomes research. The program also provides a strong foundation for students pursuing PhD, PharmD, MD, DO, or other advanced professional degrees.

🧬 Drug Discovery & Development
💊 Pharmaceutical Research
🔬 Biotechnology/ Pharmaceutical Industry
🧪 Clinical Research
� Regulatory Affairs
📊 Health Outcomes Research
📈 Market Access and Health Economics
🔎 Healthcare Education

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The M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MSPS) at the Larkin University College of Pharmacy is designed for students seeking advanced knowledge, specialized expertise, and practical skills in the rapidly evolving fields of drug discovery, drug development, pharmaceutical research, and health outcomes.

Through four areas of specialization—Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmaceutics, Pharmacology & Toxicology, and Pharmacoeconomics & Health Outcomes—students can tailor their graduate education to their professional interests and career goals.

This Program May Be Right for You If You:

  • Want to advance your career
    Prepare for opportunities in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, healthcare organizations, regulatory agencies, contract research organizations, research institutions, and health outcomes research.
  • Seek specialized, career-relevant training
    Develop advanced knowledge in areas such as drug discovery and development, pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, pharmacology and toxicology, and health outcomes research.
  • Have a background in science or healthcare
    Deepen your understanding of how medicines and healthcare interventions are discovered, developed, evaluated, and translated into clinical practice.
  • Are considering advanced education
    Build a strong academic and research foundation for future study toward a Ph.D. or other advanced professional degrees in pharmacy, medicine, dentistry, or related biomedical and health sciences.
  • Want meaningful research experience
    Engage in faculty-mentored research through thesis or non-thesis pathways and gain experience using experimental, computational, clinical, or health outcomes research methodologies.
  • Aspire to innovate and make an impact
    Develop the knowledge and skills to contribute to the discovery and development of new therapies and address complex challenges in chronic diseases, emerging infectious diseases, and other areas of global health.

The LUCOP MSPS program is an interdisciplinary graduate program designed to prepare students for careers in pharmaceutical sciences, biomedical research, healthcare, and health outcomes. The program combines rigorous coursework, hands-on learning, faculty mentorship, research experience, and professional development.

Students can specialize in one of four areas:

  • Medicinal Chemistry – drug discovery and design, computational drug design, organic synthesis, and structure–activity relationship studies.
  • Pharmaceutics – drug formulation, drug delivery, pharmacokinetics, biopharmaceutics, and pharmaceutical product development.
  • Pharmacology & Toxicology – mechanisms of drug action, pharmacological evaluation, safety assessment, and toxicology.
  • Pharmacoeconomics & Health Outcomes – health economics, outcomes research, healthcare utilization, and real-world evidence.

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The program provides opportunities to develop both theoretical knowledge and practical skills through coursework, research rotations, internships, seminars, journal clubs, and an applied capstone project or faculty-mentored thesis.

Graduates can pursue careers in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, drug discovery and development, biomedical and clinical research, regulatory science, government agencies such as the FDA and NIH, healthcare organizations, and health outcomes research. The program also provides a strong academic foundation for students planning to pursue a PhD, PharmD, MD, DO, or other advanced professional degree.

The MSPS program offers a flexible curriculum that integrates core pharmaceutical sciences education with specialized coursework, experiential learning, research, and professional development.

Students begin with required core courses that establish foundational knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences and then complete courses within their selected area of specialization. Depending on their interests and career goals, students may also complete electives, research rotations, internships, seminars, and journal clubs.

Students can choose between two pathways:

  • Thesis pathway: A minimum of 36 graduate credits, including faculty-mentored original research, a written thesis, and a thesis defense.
  • Non-thesis (Capstone) pathway: A minimum of 30 graduate credits, culminating in an applied capstone project that integrates knowledge and skills gained throughout the program.

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Program delivery may include in-person and/or online formats, subject to course availability, providing flexibility for students with different educational and professional goals. The program is designed to provide students with a combination of scientific knowledge, practical experience, research skills, and professional competencies that can support diverse career and academic pathways.



Yes. The MSPS program can provide students with a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences and exposure to drug discovery, pharmacology, pharmaceutics, research, and other areas relevant to pharmacy education.

Students who successfully complete the MSPS program may receive preferential consideration when applying to Larkin University’s Pharm.D. program. However, admission to the Pharm.D. program is not guaranteed and remains subject to applicable Pharm.D. admission requirements and institutional policies.

No. Students are NOT required to identify, secure, or solicit research rotation or internship sites. The Program is responsible for identifying and coordinating research rotation and internship opportunities. However, students may recommend potential research rotation or internship opportunities if they are aware of them and are interested in pursuing them.

As soon as possible. Applications may be submitted prior to completion of the bachelor’s, degree but you should plan to complete all degree by July before the start of the programÌýto provide final grades to the Admissions Department prior to beginning classes. Since applications should be submitted through : July 15, 2027) and are reviewed on a rolling basis, applying early is strongly recommended.

Financial aid information for your program of studies is available at the Office of Financial Aid and Student Access (OFASA).Ìý

Yes. U.S. citizens and permanent residents may work while enrolled, subject to applicable employment requirements.

However, F-1 students may not work off-campus during the first academic year, but may accept on-campus employment subject to certain conditions and restrictions. After the first academic year, F-1 students may engage in three types of off-campus employment:

  • Curricular Practical Training (CPT)

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F-1 students may also be eligible to work off-campus on a case-by-case basis as a result ofÌýÌýsuch as severe economic hardship or special student relief. M-1 students may engage in practical training only after they have completed their studies.

On-campus housing is not available, but several options are available to assist you in your housing search.ÌýÌý

Link to Housing Options

No, you will not. From the University Library, you will have access to numerous online databases and textbooks needed to augment content information from faculty during your courses.Ìý The exam preparation materials are integrated into the curriculum and are provided as part of the cost to attend the program. Students may elect to purchase additional learning resources.