Pharmaceutical Sciences PhD

The PhD in Pharmaceutical Sciences at Temple University’s School of Pharmacy is a rigorous, research-based graduate course of study that prepares you for advanced scientific research. The curriculum integrates biochemistry, organic chemistry, pharmaceutics and pharmacology. You will acquire expertise on drug synthesis, action, delivery and disposition.

Pharmaceutical Sciences PhD graduates have gone on to work in academic research labs and government and regulatory agencies. Graduates have also pursued biotechnology, clinical pharmacology and pharmaceutics. The Philadelphia region is a hub for biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, putting students in the middle of multiple research and career opportunities.

Completed in four to five years, the Pharmaceutical Sciences PhD curriculum emphasizes a deep understanding of chemical synthesis, controlled release dosage forms, drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics, mechanisms of drug action, pharmaceutical analysis, and solid dosage forms. The interdisciplinary curriculum is divided into three concentrations of scientific study: medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics and pharmacodynamics.

Doctoral candidates contribute to extensive research under the mentorship of Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences graduate faculty, particularly as they progress through the program. New discoveries and contributions to healthcare in the pharmaceutical sciences are performed in the School of Pharmacy’s state-of-the-art labs and research facilities.

Classes & Curriculum

The Pharmaceutical Sciences PhD curriculum is a blend of instructional courses and research requirements. Students must complete a minimum of 40 graduate credits beyond their bachelor’s degrees. Students must conduct original research and defend their written dissertation.

Tuition & Fees

In keeping with Temple’s commitment to access and affordability, this Doctor of Philosophy offers a competitive level of tuition with multiple opportunities for financial support.

Tuition rates are set annually by the university and are affected by multiple factors, including program degree level (undergraduate or graduate), course load (full- or part-time), in-state or out-of-state residency, and more. These tuition costs apply to the 2025–2026 academic year.

Pennsylvania resident: $1,272.00 per credit
Out-of-state: $1,581.00 per credit

You can view the full cost of attendance breakdown on the Student Financial Services website.

Related Graduate Degrees

Student Clubs & Organizations

The School of Pharmacy offers its students a number of academic and social extracurriculars. Students are able to participate in a range of groups, including fraternities and honor societies, school chapters of national organizations, and student-led alliances and committees. Some of these clubs and organizations are

American Pharmacists Association/Academy of Student Pharmacists, Temple University Student Chapter provides information about the professional association and serves as a forum for students’ opinions on association activities and policies.
Rho Chi is the National Honor Society of Pharmacy that promotes the advancement of the pharmaceutical sciences and of the pharmacy profession.
Student Government acts as a liaison between the School of Pharmacy’s administration, class members and faculty.
Student National Pharmaceutical Association—Temple University Chapter is an educational service association of pharmacy students who are concerned about pharmacy and healthcare-related issues, including poor and minority representation in health-related professions.

Explore the full list of School of Pharmacy student clubs and organizations.

Concentrations

This degree program can be completed with or without a concentration. Your concentration options include

Pharmacodynamics
This seven-year doctoral program will immerse you in the pharmacodynamics field with an interdisciplinary approach to research and teaching. Gain the tools for a career in teaching or as a scientist in the pharmaceutical industry. Graduates also commonly pursue post-doctoral research in pharmacodynamics.
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Medicinal Chemistry
Earn a doctoral degree in pharmaceutical science with a focus on medicinal chemistry. You’ll be prepared for faculty positions in schools of pharmacy, research positions and pharmaceutical work in government agencies.
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Pharmaceutics
You’ll study full-time and expand your practical knowledge of pharmaceutics in this doctoral program. Sharpen your clinical skills with a minimum one-year residency in one of the School of Pharmacy laboratories. You’ll train to be a leader in research for the pharmaceutical industry, government agencies and faculty positions in schools of pharmacy.
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Temple University

Pharmaceutical Sciences PhD