Master of Science Drug Development

The Master of Science in Drug Development aims to prepare graduates for careers in pharmaceutical development.  This hybrid online and in-person program combines classroom courses and individualized experiential education to equip graduates with the tools aligned with their career interests (e.g., pharmaceutical scientist, regulatory affairs specialist, medical science liaison, etc.). 

Admission

There are two pathways for admission to the MSDD program. The pathway is based on the status of applicant at the time of application. Regis University PharmD students can pursue the degree through the PharmD/MSDD dual degree pathway. All other applicants would apply to the standalone MSDD pathway.

For all applicants:

• If English is not the applicant’s native/first language, the applicant must meet the following language proficiency requirement:

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) – Internet-based:

Minimum score of 82 (24 Writing, 20 Speaking, 22 Reading, 16 Listening), Computer-based: Minimum score of 213. Regis University's TOEFL code is 4656.

• Applicants who have successfully completed an undergraduate or graduate degree at an accredited US institution do not need to provide a TOEFL score.

RUSOP PharmD/MSDD pathway:

  • Online application
  • Interview
  • We will use your transcripts that are part of your Regis University record.
  • Recommended minimum undergraduate science and mathematics grade point average of 2.5 (on 4.0 scale)
  • Students entering in 2026, will need to have successfully taken calculus or statistics.

Standalone MSDD pathway:

  • Online application
  • • One letter of recommendation.
  • Resume/CV
  • Interview
  • Official degree-bearing transcript
  • Recommended minimum undergraduate science and mathematics grade point average of 2.5 (on 4.0 scale)
  • Students entering in 2026, will need to have successfully taken calculus or statistics.

Computer Literacy

Students are required to be computer literate prior to entering the program. Necessary skills include proficiency in several computer programs, including Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook. Students are also expected to be comfortable navigating web pages using common Internet browsers, attaching documents to e-mails, and participating in online discussion groups as required by specific courses within the program. For students unfamiliar with computers and software, courses can be taken through community colleges, continuing education programs or through private companies prior to beginning the program. Students are also required to have a laptop or personal electronic device (i.e., iPad or Surface Pro) that meets the minimum requirements for our testing software. These requirements can be found at https://examsoft.com/resources/examplify-minimum-system-requirements/#windows29

Computer-based Testing Requirements

If an assessment is administered electronically, students must use their personal device with specifications as described in the minimum system requirements or a provided desktop computer. Most quizzes and exams will be taken electronically. Students may use a laptop computer or a provided desktop computer for exams. It is recommended that students also have access to a printer and broadband internet access (cable or DSL) at home. There is no formal support from either the University or the School for personal electronic devices. Students are responsible for maintaining a functioning laptop, Surface Pro, or iPad. Since nearly all public spaces on the Regis campus have wireless internet access, any device with a wireless internet allows students to access internet resources necessary for the School of Pharmacy program such as library databases, audio and video files pertinent to course content, and specialized databases.

Program Progression/Academic Notice/ Suspension/Dismissal

See details within the RHCHP Academic Standing and Penalties section of this Catalog and the School of Pharmacy Supplemental Student Handbook.

Graduation Requirements

The following requirements apply to all current and future students:

Students must meet the following criteria to be awarded the Master of Science in Drug Development degree:

• Satisfactory completion of 32 semester hours of 600 or 700-level academic and experiential coursework.

• Cumulative GPA of 3.000 and no less than a “C” grade in any course.

• Satisfactory completion of the APPE/Capstone course

• Satisfactory completion of all degree requirements within six years (72 months) from the date of matriculation.

• Recommendation for the degree by the faculty of the School of Pharmacy.