In a bachelor’s degree program in pharmaceutical sciences, students build their knowledge in the math and science of pharmacology—the study of the uses and effects of drugs. While there are several career opportunities for graduates of bachelor’s degree programs—such as pharmacy tech, pharmaceutical sales representative, and research assistant—many degree programs are designed to provide students with the knowledge needed to get into and excel in grad school to become pharmacists or researchers.

Students generally choose a concentration within the program to focus their studies on. Students interested in pharmaceutical research and development often concentrate in biological chemistry; those interested in becoming pharmacists often concentrate in pharmaceutics; and those interested in becoming sales representatives for drug companies often concentrate in pharmaceutical sales. While all students will take a core set of courses, the concentration selected will guide future career opportunities.

What Jobs Can You Get with a Degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences?

Demand for talented pharmacists, pharmacy techs, and pharmaceutical sales representatives should be high in the coming years due to the increased need for medicines within the aging Baby Boomer generation. One of the largest generations of our time, the Baby Boomers are now reaching retirement age and are expected to need significant medical care in the coming decades. This should increase demand for professions throughout the healthcare industry, including those in pharmaceuticals.

How Long does it take?

A bachelors in Pharmaceutical Sciences will have a typical length of 4 years in a full time schedule. That said, there are many ways to speed up the timeframe by either taking more units via online coursework, community college, or taking free classes at OnlineDegree.com that could transfer to universities in the US.