Bridging science and business for the future of medicine.

The M.S. in Drug Development is a forward-thinking program that equips students with both the scientific knowledge and business acumen necessary for success in the pharmaceutical industry. Developed in collaboration with industry professionals from across the country, the program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers pharmaceutical science, drug design, manufacturing practices, applied biostatistics and essential lab skills. Students also gain a deeper understanding of the business side of the industry, including marketing strategies and regulatory compliance.

With courses in research methods, good manufacturing practice (GMP) and pharmaceutical ethics, graduates are prepared to navigate the complexities of drug development while maintaining the highest ethical standards. Whether you're aiming to advance your career in the pharmaceutical industry or exploring the possibility of pursuing a doctoral degree in pharmacy or pharmaceutical science, this program provides a solid foundation for your future.

Leading With Integrity

Our program instills a strong foundation in ethical decision-making, ensuring graduates approach every facet of the pharmaceutical industry with responsibility and integrity. With dedicated courses in ethics, good lab practices and research methods, the concept of cura personalis (care for the whole person) is our guiding principle.

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Program Snapshot

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Program Format
Hybrid online and on-campus
16-week terms

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Time Commitment
12 months

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Start Dates
August

View Full Degree Curriculum and Requirements

Join Regis Alumni Working As:

Pharmaceutical Scientist

Conduct research and develop new drugs, focusing on formulation and testing to ensure safety and efficacy.


Regulatory Affairs Specialist

Manage the submission and approval process for new drugs, ensuring compliance with governmental regulations.


Medical Science Liaison

Act as a bridge between pharmaceutical companies and health care providers, providing scientific and clinical expertise.


By the Numbers

$100890
Median annual wage for medical scientists, 2023*
10%
Projected job growth for medical scientists through 2032*
2 billion+
Average cost to develop and bring a new drug to market**

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medical scientists 2023
**National Library of Medicine, PMC PubMed Central, 2021

Headshot of Evan Sanchez

The classes Regis University's School of Pharmacy offered in pharmaceutical industry allowed me to enter a career cross-training in clinical and formulation science as an Associate Scientist II, splitting my time between the lab and designing clinical trials. I am so thankful to have gone to a pharmacy school that offered these courses as it allowed me to enter into a competitive industry and grow in a career I love.

–Evan Sanchez, Pharm.D.
Associate Scientist II
TOLMAR, Inc.

Imagine Yourself In ...

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PHRM 602: Medical Evidence, Evaluation and Communication

Learn how to construct and execute systematic searches using primary, secondary and tertiary literature, including guidelines and grey literature, while systematically analyzing, critiquing and comparing research findings.

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PHRM 603: Legal and Regulatory Environment for the Pharmaceutical Industry

Introduces students to legal and regulatory practices within the pharmaceutical industry, including pharmacovigilance procedures across the drug development and post-marketing lifespan, regulatory considerations for INDs, NDAs and clinical trials.

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PHRM 604: Study Design – Pharmaceutical Industry

Develops each student’s ability to become pharmacists focused in the pharmaceutical product research lifecycle through examining a variety of trial designs and processes involved in drug development.

To apply to the M.S. in Drug Development program, you will need:

  • Online application
  • Resume/CV
  • Official degree-bearing transcripts
  • Interview
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Tuition for the 2025-2026 academic year: $1,216 per credit hour
Total program credits: 32
Tuition is one part of the overall cost of attendance, which includes all expenses students may have, including basic living costs. For more information about tuition, fees and your estimated cost of attendance, visit our Cost of Attendance for Adult Undergraduates and Graduate Students page. Tuition and fees are subject to change.

Curious about financial aid options? Regis offers a variety of scholarships, grants and other programs to help you pay for school. Visit Financial Aid to learn more.

A Culture of Excellence

The M.S. in Drug Development is offered by the School of Pharmacy in the Rueckert College for Health Professions.