Graduate Programs in Pharmaceutical Science

Overview

We offer both M.S. and Ph.D. programs in Pharmaceutical Sciences, allowing you to choose a flexible general curriculum or specialize in one of four areas: Health Outcomes, Medicinal Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Pharmaceutics and Pharmacokinetics, or Pharmacology and Toxicology.

URI is an outstanding destination for aspiring scientists dedicated to advancing pharmaceutical science research. Ranked #1 among research universities in New England and within the top 10% of pharmacy research programs nationwide, we provide an exceptional environment for discovery, innovation, and professional growth. As the global biotech market is projected to exceed $4.6 trillion by 2034, there has never been a more exciting time to pursue an M.S. or Ph.D. Our program offers rigorous technical training and professional development to prepare you for academia, government, healthcare, and industry leadership roles.


Program Highlights

  • Unmatched Research Opportunities: Immerse yourself in a dynamic research environment where cutting-edge, funded research projects are conducted alongside a multidisciplinary team of renowned scientists. In 2024, URI secured $21M in federal research funding and consistently ranks among the top recipients of National Institutes of Health (NIH) research funding. Our programs in specialized fields—available at only a few universities nationwide—offer you the chance to collaborate with world-class faculty in basic, clinical, and applied pharmaceutical sciences.
  • World-Class Faculty: Our faculty are leaders in their fields, with distinguished achievements, principal investigator roles on federally funded research projects, patents, journal editorships, advisory board positions, and prestigious national research awards, including fellowships with the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) and the American Association of Pharmaceutical Scientists (AAPS). You will learn from respected experts in basic, clinical, and applied pharmaceutical sciences who exemplify collaborative, interdisciplinary research. Passionate about teaching and mentoring, our faculty are dedicated to training the next generation of scientists and academicians.
  • Industry Connections: URI’s strong ties to the pharmaceutical industry provide students with unparalleled internship and co-op opportunities, helping them establish valuable professional connections. These industry partnerships also lead to high-paying career opportunities after graduation. 
  • Career Flexibility: The program’s comprehensive curriculum equips you for various roles, including industry and academic research and administration, regulatory affairs, and quality assurance, offering a versatile and promising career path across multiple healthcare and science sectors.

Our Research Strategic Pillars

Neuroscience and Healthy AgingImmunology and Natural ProductsHealthcare Accessibility
Invest in expanding the prevention and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.

Target conditions include Alzheimer’s, ALS, aging-related illnesses, mental health, addiction, pain, and substance use disorders.

Lead global efforts and provide research partnership opportunities for scientists and pharmacists.
Establish a Center of Excellence dedicated to Immunology and Natural Products.

Prevent and treat immune-based diseases (e.g., cancer, MS, diabetes, and ID).

Comprehensive understanding and management approach with interdisciplinary research.

Influence of lifestyle choices on health, particularly nutrition and natural products.
Increase faculty and involve Pharmacists in public health initiatives.

Continue to forge national strategic collaborations with organizations and pharmacies. 

Address medication accessibility challenges and advocate for transparency and fairness.

Prioritize vulnerable populations; promote interdisciplinary healthcare with pharmacists as providers.

Have questions?

Visit Graduate Admission or contact Ami Vyas, Director of Graduate Programs, at 401.874.7255 or avyas@uri.edu.