M.S. in Pharmacology
Research how chemical agents, including potential therapeutic candidates, act on biological systems in this dynamic pharmaceutical sciences degree, with an emphasis in pharmacology.
About this Emphasis
Are you passionate about understanding how drugs impact the body? Want to be part of a program that combines innovative research with a strong commitment to teaching and service? Then a master’s degree pharmaceutical sciences, emphasizing in pharmacology, is for you.
Pharmacology is the science that explores how drugs affect humans and animals, unlocking insights that span a wide range of biological systems and therapeutic possibilities. It's a field that touches on everything from the molecular details of drug-receptor interactions to broader issues like disease treatment and environmental health.
Our faculty lead research on a variety of critical topics, including cannabinoids, opioids, hormones, and cellular signaling pathways. These studies have far-reaching applications in areas like aging, cardiovascular diseases, drug addiction, diabetes, obesity, neurological disorders, and even the effects of pollutants on human health. Our researchers use cutting-edge tools such as mass spectrometry to investigate the structure-function relationships of proteins and carbohydrates, along with clinical, preclinical, and behavioral assessments, and advanced cell culture techniques.
Beyond research, our faculty are deeply invested in education. We offer instruction in pre-pharmacy, graduate, and Pharm.D programs, with a strong focus on the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning. Our mission is to foster a vibrant community of faculty and students who are engaged not only in the School of Pharmacy but also in broader university, community, and government initiatives.
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
Pharmacology
Required Credit Hours
30 - 36 Hours
Pharmacology 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 - Pharmacology
GOALS/MISSION STATEMENT
The academic mission of the Department of BioMolecular Sciences, Pharmacology Division is to apply pharmacological sciences to the teaching of professional pharmacy students and graduate students and to conduct research and educational activities that seek to identify and resolve problems related to basic and applied pharmacology.
COURSE REQUIREMENTS
Requirements for the M.S. in pharmaceutical sciences with an emphasis in pharmacology consist of:
- Graduate Student Survival Strategies (BMS 601) (2 hours);
- Principles of Pharmacology and Toxicology I (Phcl 675) (4 hours);
- Principles of Pharmacology and Toxicology II (Phcl 676) (4 hours);
- PHCL/BMS/Bisc/Chem/Engr or other courses at 500/600/700-level (500-level courses require adviser approval) electives (9 hours);
- Research Ethics (GRAD 600) (1 hour)
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 on experimental work in the general area of pharmacology is required.
DEGREE REQUIREMENTS AND EXPECTATIONS
Pharmacology graduate students must maintain eligibility by meeting a high level of academic achievement. 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.
Pharmacology 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 Pharmacology emphasis, don't hesitate to reach out!
James Alfred Stewart
Associate Professor of Pharmacology and Research Associate Professor in the 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?