Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Drug Discovery and Development

Certificate Level: Graduate
Admissions Requirements: Bachelor's degree or higher
Certificate Type: Post-baccalaureate
Number of Credits to Completion: 15.0
Instructional Delivery: Online
Calendar Type: Semester
Expected Time to Completion: 2 years
Financial Aid Eligibility: Aid eligible*
Classification of Instructional Program (CIP) Code: 26.1001
Standard Occupational Classification (SOC) Code: 19-1042

*The current plan of study for this program only allows for federal financial aid (including Federal Direct Student Loans) for terms that are a minimum of 4.5 credits for graduate courses and 6.0 credits for undergraduate courses. This is based on current regulations from the U.S. Department of Education.

About the Program

The Certificate in Drug Discovery and Development program provides in-depth exposure to the multiple elements involved in the discovery and development of prescription medications. This program has been designed to help students establish an enduring and productive career and advance within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry. It covers all aspects of drug discovery and development ranging from the identification and validation of molecular drug targets through to regulatory approval and commercialization. Students will also be exposed to critical clinical, legal and business aspects associated with the successful development of a marketed drug. There is an extensive range of elective courses that provide specialized training in specific elements of the discovery and development process. It should be noted that this is a “stackable” certificate, and all completed courses in this program can be applied toward a Master of Science in Drug Discovery and Development.

The Certificate in Drug Discovery and Development is available to individuals who have already obtained a BS or BA degree in the life, physical or health sciences who wish to pursue industry-focused training. This includes individuals who wish to have a broader base of information about drug discovery and development, those who may wish to transition into the industry or those who have recently transitioned into the industry. The curriculum has been designed with the recognition that the complex and specialized nature of the pharmaceutical and biotechnical industries requires a diversity of expertise.

Admission Requirements

Students must meet all entrance requirements of the program. The applicant must have completed a four-year bachelor’s degree, nursing degree or equivalent program in a relevant subject area with a preferred GPA of at least 2.75. All students must submit two confidential letters of recommendation, a personal statement explaining their interest in the program and all previous official educational transcripts. No standardized test is required for admission, but if one has been taken (such as the GRE and MCAT), the scores should be submitted for review. The merit of each applicant will be evaluated by the Admissions Committee for the program, and all qualifications, including professional experience, will be taken into consideration.

For additional information, please visit the Drug Discovery and Development certificate website.

Program Requirements

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 Courses not listed below may be taken as electives only with the approval of the Program Director.

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 Available online

Sample Plan of Study