Decoding Degrees: PharmD vs. PhD vs. Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences

If you’re investigating a pharmacy or pharmaceutical science career, choosing the right educational path can feel like deciphering a complex prescription. We’re here to help break down the key differences between three popular degrees: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Master of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (MS), and Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Pharmaceutical Sciences.

Note: Mercer University is one of the few colleges in the South offering all three degrees. Learn more about the programs we offer.

The PharmD: Your Gateway to Patient Care

The Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) is a professional doctorate specifically designed to prepare you for a career as a licensed pharmacist. Pharmacists are the medication experts on the healthcare team, ensuring patients receive the right drugs at the correct dosage. PharmD grads work mostly in front-of-the-line careers in retail, hospital and other patient-forward settings. And yes, since this is a doctorate program, you can be called “Doctor” after graduation!

What to expect in a PharmD program:

• Focus: Patient care and medication therapy management.
• Coursework: Expect a blend of classroom learning and practical experience in areas like pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, pharmacy law, and clinical rotations.
• Duration: At Mercer, our program is four years of full-time study after completing prerequisite coursework, often in biology or chemistry. Note: By enrolling in the spring semester, our students can graduate in just three years.*
• Career options: Community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, specialty pharmacy, clinical research, and medication therapy management.
• Requirements: Mercer requires several undergraduate pre-requisite courses to apply. While many of our students have bachelor’s degrees, it is not required. In fact, you can earn your BS while also pursuing a PharmD!

Interested? Contact our admissions department for more information and to get started.

Masters in Pharmaceutical Sciences: Deepen Your Knowledge

A MS is a more research-oriented degree than the PharmD. It provides a strong foundation in the scientific principles underlying drug discovery, development, and delivery.

What to expect in an MS program:

• Focus: Research and development, formulation science, or a specific area of pharmaceutical sciences.
• Coursework: At Mercer, you can conduct research projects alongside our esteemed faculty. Students delve into topics like drug delivery systems, pharmacokinetics (how drugs move through the body), and pharmaceutical analysis. Thesis and non-thesis tracks are available.
• Duration: Two years of full-time study.*
• Career options: Research and development in pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, or contract research organizations (CROs). Regulatory affairs, quality control, and scientific writing are also possibilities.
• Requirements: Mercer MS candidates must have a PharmD or BS in Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field.

If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our admissions department for more information.

The PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences: Dive Deep into Research

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) is the ultimate research degree, preparing you for a career at the forefront of scientific discovery in pharmaceuticals. It emphasizes independent research, culminating in a dissertation that significantly contributes to the field.

What to expect in a PhD program:

• Focus: Independent research in a specific area of pharmaceutical sciences, like drug discovery, medicinal chemistry, or pharmacology.
• Coursework: Advanced coursework provides a strong foundation for your research. You’ll also gain experience through research rotations in different labs.
• Duration: After completing a bachelor’s degree, a PhD typically takes four to six years of study, depending on your schedule and research focus.*
• Career options: Research positions in pharmaceutical companies, academia, government agencies, or research institutions.
• Requirements: Mercer PhD candidates must have a PharmD or BS in Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biology, or a related field. You also must have a minimum Graduate Record Examination (GRE) in the 40th percentile in the verbal section and 60th percentile in the quantitative section.

Get more details about our program and admissions requirements by contacting our admissions department.

So, Which Degree is Right for You?

The best degree for you depends on your career goals. Consider these factors:

• Do you want to work directly with patients? If so, the PharmD is the clear winner.
• Are you passionate about research? Then the MS or PhD might be a better fit. But remember, the PhD requires a longer commitment and a focus on independent research.
• Do you already have a PharmD and want to specialize in research? An MS could be a good option to bridge the gap between patient care and research.

No matter which path you choose, a degree in pharmaceutical sciences equips you to make a real difference in people’s lives. Whether it’s ensuring safe and effective medication use, developing new life-saving drugs, or advancing our understanding of diseases, your work will have a positive impact on the world.

Remember, this is just a starting point. Our admissions advisors are here to help and answer your questions. Also, talk to professionals in the field, and do more online research. With the right information and a clear vision, you can unlock a rewarding career in the exciting world of pharmacy!

*Duration of program is typical for full-time students.