M.S. in Pharmacognosy
Research the chemistry and pharmacology of bioactive natural products and their application in disease treatments in this dynamic pharmaceutical sciences degree, with an emphasis in pharmacognosy.
About this Emphasis
Are you fascinated by nature's potential to unlock groundbreaking scientific discoveries? Pharmacognosy, or natural products research, delves into the chemistry, origins, and biological functions of small molecules found in nature—whether from plants, animals, fungi, or microbes across diverse environments, from forests to oceans. This area of study dates back to the earliest herbal remedies developed by indigenous cultures, and continues to play a pivotal role in modern science.
In our division, we build on these time-honored methods with cutting-edge approaches. Our research includes traditional techniques like compound isolation and structure analysis but also ventures into highly interdisciplinary territory, using molecular biology and advanced analytical chemistry to explore how natural products are biosynthesized and their roles within ecosystems.
Natural products are often the foundation for drug discovery, but their impact goes far beyond pharmaceuticals. This research has applications in biotechnology, offering molecular probes for cell biology, pest control solutions for agriculture, chemical ingredients for cosmetics, and insights into dietary supplements. Additionally, it provides critical information about the ecological functions of these compounds, aiding conservation efforts and offering new pharmacological insights.
If you're eager to be part of a field that merges ancient wisdom with cutting-edge science and contributes to the discovery of future therapeutics and innovations, our program offers the perfect launchpad.
About Pharmaceutical Sciences
Do you want to be involved in the development of new medicine? Want to conduct new and exciting research? Then, a degree in pharmaceutical sciences is for you.
At the University of Mississippi School of Pharmacy, you won't just learn from our team of faculty and researchers. You will work alongside them and help explore the future of health and medicine.
We offer various disciplines, from environmental toxicology to pharmacy administration. Join us and find the right path for you.
Being an Ole Miss Pharmacy graduate student allows you to be part of a diverse community that is comprehensive in scope yet relatively small in size. This provides an excellent opportunity for advanced studies in a supportive and nurturing environment.
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Program Information
Program Type
Master's Program
Area of Study
Health and Social Services
Pharmacy
Sciences, Mathematics, and Technology
School
Duration
2 - 3 Years
Degree
M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences
Program Location
Emphases
Pharmacognosy
Required Credit Hours
30 - 36 Hours
Pharmacognosy Program Details
M.S. in Pharmaceutical Sciences
MINIMUM TOTAL CREDIT HOURS: 30
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
The respective program description sections provide requirements for each emphasis area. Students must complete a minimum of 24 semester hours of coursework and 6 hours of thesis.
Emphasis - Pharmacognosy
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Requirements for the M.S. with an emphasis in pharmacognosy include:
- Graduate Student Survival Strategies (BMS 601) (2 hours);
- Biosynthesis (Phcg 627) (3 hours);
- Advanced Biochemistry (Phcg 620, or equivalent) (3 hours);
- 500/600/700-level elective courses (500-level courses require adviser approval) (12 hours).
Seminar Requirement
Students are required to register for BMS 643 (Z grade) every semester, with the exception of those semesters in which the student presents a seminar and instead registers for BMS 641 (graded). No more than four seminar hours can be used toward the 24 minimum total credit hours.
A minimum of 6 hours of thesis research must also be taken to meet degree requirements.
OTHER ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS
A thesis based upon experimental work in the general area of pharmacognosy is required.
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS
Pharmacognosy graduate students must meet a high level of academic achievement to maintain eligibility. Students are expected to maintain an overall GPA of at least 3.0 (B).
The deadlines for application are:
- Fall: February 1
- Spring: October 1
All applications must be made via the UM Graduate School’s online application procedure.
All application materials must be submitted only through the UM Graduate School’s online application system. Application materials should not be sent directly to the department. The following items must be included in the online application:
- Two letters of recommendation, at least one of which is from a faculty member in the applicant’s major study area. The letter writers will need to submit their letters themselves through the online system.
- A statement of purpose
- Undergraduate/graduate transcript(s). Please arrange for the official transcript(s) to be sent directly from your university to the graduate school. Only the graduate school can post the transcript(s) to the application system.
It is also possible to submit supporting documentation through the UM Graduate School’s online application system, such as:
- List of publications
- Research interest areas
- Prior work experiences relevant to biomolecular sciences
Please arrange for the IELTS/TOEFL score to be sent to the graduate school. The institutional code for the University of Mississippi is 1840, and the department code for the TOEFL is 99. A GRE score is NOT required for admission.
Pharmacognosy Research
As a graduate student in the BioMolecular Sciences (BMS) programs, you’ll thrive in a collaborative environment focused on improving health and quality of life through innovative research. Our programs emphasize both basic and applied research, offering many pathways to explore cutting-edge solutions for global health challenges.
Did You Know?
internationally-recognized research centers are housed in the School of Pharmacy and located on the Oxford campus
publications authored by School of Pharmacy researchers in 2023.
Meet the Program Coordinator
If you have any questions about the Pharmacognosy emphasis, don't hesitate to reach out!
Cole Stevens
Associate Professor of Pharmacognosy and Research Associate Professor in the Research Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Next Steps
Explore Affordability
We have a variety of scholarships and financial aid options to help make college more affordable for you and your family.
Apply to the University of Mississippi
Are you ready to take the next step toward building your legacy?