B.S. in Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science

FAQs

  1. What’s the Difference Between a Pharmaceutical Scientist and a Pharmacist?
    Pharmaceutical scientists focus on discovering, developing, evaluating, and manufacturing new medications. They work in laboratories, studying how compounds interact with disease-causing cells and the human body to determine if they can be developed into effective drugs. Pharmacists evaluate medication use, collaborate with other providers, prepare and dispense medications, and educate patients about their treatments. 
  2. How is a B.S. degree different from a Pharm.D. program?
    The B.S. in BPS emphasizes research and innovations to advance human health, while the Pharm.D. focuses on clinical practice. The B.S. in BPS focuses on the science of drug discovery, development, and manufacturing. It’s ideal for those interested in being on the cutting edge of medical innovation whether doing research in the lab, evaluating drugs in the clinic, or optimizing pharmaceutical manufacturing. A Pharm.D. (Doctor of Pharmacy) prepares students to become licensed pharmacists who work directly with patients, healthcare providers, and medication management. 
  3. What career opportunities are available with a B.S. degree?
    A B.S. in BPS opens doors to diverse career paths at world-class pharmaceutical, biotechnology, consumer product, and healthcare companies as well as government agencies. Graduates often work in research and development, quality control, manufacturing, regulatory affairs, marketing, and sales. Roles may include pharmaceutical research associate, regulatory specialist, formulation scientist, clinical research coordinator, and more.
  4. What kind of courses will I take in the B.S. program?
    You’ll take courses in areas such as chemistry, biology, pharmacology, toxicology, drug design, formulation, manufacturing, and regulatory science. Additional topics may include biostatistics, biomedical research techniques, and biotechnology. The curriculum is designed to provide a strong foundation in the principles of biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences and hands-on laboratory experience.
  5. Can I pursue a B.S. degree if I’m interested in research and development?
    Absolutely! The B.S. in BPS program is an excellent choice if you’re interested in research and development. You’ll gain knowledge and skills in drug discovery, formulation, testing, and manufacturing—essential areas for R&D careers in pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and related fields.
  6. Are there internship or hands-on learning opportunities in the B.S. program?
    Yes, the B.S. in BPS program offers numerous opportunities for hands-on learning. These may include internships with pharmaceutical companies, research projects, laboratory coursework, and collaborations with industry professionals. Gaining real-world experience is a crucial part of preparing for a successful career in the biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences.
  7. What industries or companies typically hire BPS graduates?
    BPS graduates are sought after by industries such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, cosmetics, food and beverage, healthcare, and regulatory agencies. Companies ranging from world-class pharmaceutical manufacturers to biotech startups, research institutions, and government agencies often hire graduates for various roles in research, quality control, manufacturing, and regulatory affairs.
  8. Is the BPS program a good choice if I want to pursue graduate or medical school?
    Yes, the BPS program provides a strong scientific foundation that can be an excellent stepping stone for graduate school or medical school. Many students use the degree as a pathway to advanced studies in pharmaceutical sciences, biomedical research, medicine, or related healthcare fields.
  9. What skills will I gain from the BPS program that are valuable in the pharmaceutical industry?
    The BPS program equips you with valuable skills such as analytical thinking, laboratory techniques, research methodologies, problem-solving, critical thinking, regulatory knowledge, and effective communication. You’ll also gain practical experience through internships, lab work, and collaborative projects, making you a well-rounded candidate for various pharmaceutical roles.
  10. How long does it take to complete a B.S.  degree?
    The B.S. in BPS degree is completed in 3.5-4 years of full-time study. The program includes a combination of foundational coursework, advanced biomedical and pharmaceutical science classes, lab work, and experiential learning opportunities.
  11. What support services are available for BPS students?
    BPS students have access to various support services, including academic advising, faculty mentorship, career planning resources, internship placement assistance, networking opportunities, and workshops. These resources are designed to guide you throughout your academic journey and help you achieve your career goals.
  12. How do I apply to the B.S. in BPS Program? For High School Students: Select “Bachelor of Science in Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science” as your major of interest on the URI undergraduate application. 
  13. Can I study abroad while enrolled in the BPS program at URI? Yes, we encourage students to take advantage of international academic experiences. These can occur during your sophomore year. 
  14. Are there other resources I can learn more about a career in Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Science?