The Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences program at the University of Southern California (USC) is designed for individuals with a bachelor's or master's degree in pharmacy, chemistry, biology, or related fields. The program emphasizes academic excellence and requires demonstrated proficiency in fundamental scientific areas, including organic and physical chemistry, biochemistry, biology, mathematics, statistics, and computer science. Applicants also need strong verbal and written English skills. The admissions committee carefully reviews each application, giving special attention to academic performance, particularly in science-related courses.
Fundamental scientific areas such as organic and physical chemistry, biochemistry, biology, mathematics, statistics and computer science are expected. Research and professional experience, a personal statement, published manuscripts, and letters of reference are also important components of the application.
Students accepted into the MS program are not eligible for institutional financial aid. Working in a lab for pay while enrolled in research or thesis units is not permitted. Summer stipends may be available from faculty advisors on an individual basis.
Applicants must hold a bachelor's or master's degree in pharmacy, chemistry, biology, or a related field, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Proficiency in organic and physical chemistry, biochemistry, biology, mathematics, statistics, and computer science is expected, with particular attention given to science course grades.
For TOEFL iBT, a minimum score of 90 overall is required, with at least 20 in each section. For IELTS, a competitive score of 6.5 overall is needed, with no less than 6.0 on each band.
You can apply through the Graduate Program Application portal starting September 1st. Required materials include three letters of recommendation, official transcripts, and a personal statement detailing your career objectives and research interests.
The application period opens on September 1st for Fall admission. Notifications of acceptance occur between January 15th and June 30th, and decisions continue until the class is full on a rolling basis.
Tuition and fee information, as well as estimates for living costs, can be found on the USC Financial Aid website. Students in the MS program are not eligible for institutional financial aid.
The Heather Anne Barnes Endowed Scholarship is mentioned, but it is for students in the Applied Behavior Analysis Masters program, not Pharmaceutical Sciences. Information on scholarships specific to the MS in Pharmaceutical Sciences program is not detailed.