Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science

A student working on research equipment in a lab.

Program Description

Pharmaceutical science combines the study of chemistry with other disciplines such as biology and bio-physics to examine the discovery, delivery, and administration of drugs.

The Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science features several special tracks, including:

  • Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis Track
  • Medicinal and Biological Chemistry Track

Hear from one of our students

"They really hold your hand and guide you through the processes of being a student who is determined to do well in their career. So, not only are you getting that hands-on experience with the undergraduate research program, but as well, you are getting paid for your time, which is a huge benefit that a lot of other programs may not offer."
— Morgan P., Pharmaceutical Science Major

Learn more about the USRA Program

Two students a in white lab coats and blue gloves pouring chemical liquids into a flask in a lab.
Track 1

Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis Track

This track focuses on chemical analysis and provides training in both quantitative and instrumental analysis. This is an appropriate track for those considering any graduate or physician program, or for students who wish to perform bench research later in industry.

A student pouring chemical liquid into a flask in a lab.
Track 2

Medicinal and Biological Chemistry Track

This track focuses on biological processes and biochemical analysis. This is an appropriate track for those considering any graduate or physician program or for persons who wish to perform bench research in industry. This track has more biology instruction than the Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis track, and may be more appropriate for those with interest in the biological sciences.

A bachelor’s degree in pharmaceutical science prepares graduates to work in careers in the pharmaceutical, medical manufacturing, and biotechnology industries. Related career paths include conducting research at pharmaceutical industry, becoming a pharma tech in pharmacy store (certification maybe required), becoming a researcher in academic or medical labs, entering pharmaceutical sales, or providing administrative support to a pharmacy or pharmaceutical program. Graduates may also continue their education in a Pharm.D. or M.D. program (or other advanced medical program), or can continue towards a Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, biology, or any related field. A Pharm.D. is usually required to be able to dispense drugs, and licensing requirements vary by state.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates there were 325,200 pharmacists employed across the United States in 2025. On average, about 12,500 openings for pharmacists are projected each year. There is demand for pharmacists, as the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an 5% increase from 2025-2035, faster than average for all occupations.

The Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science requires minimum of 93 hours for major with pharmaceutical chemistry and analysis track; and minimum of 90 hours for major with medicinal and biological chemistry track.

Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis Track

The program leading to the Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Science - Pharmaceutical chemistry and analysis track focuses on chemical analysis and provides training in both quantitative and instrumental analysis. This is an appropriate track for those considering any graduate or physician program, or for students who wish to perform bench research later in industry.

Degree Map
 

Medicinal and Biological Chemistry Track

This track focuses on biological processes and biochemical analysis. This is an appropriate track for those considering any graduate or physician program or for persons who wish to perform bench research in industry. This track has more biology instruction than the Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Analysis track, and may be more appropriate for those with interest in the biological sciences.

Degree Map

Honors Program/University Scholars

The Chemistry Department participates in the Honors/Scholars at CSU by requiring honors/scholars students who are pharmaceutical science majors (available for all tracks) to register for research courses (either CHM 379H - Honors Independent Study I or, with senior status, CHM 489H - Honors Senior Research) under the guidance of a professor who acts as mentor. Honors/Scholars pharmaceutical science students are required to enroll in at least 2 credit hours of research coursework each semester, for a minimum of 8 credit hours by the time of degree completion. Students are required to begin enrolling in research courses upon declaration of a pharmaceutical science major or upon acceptance into the Honors/Scholars Program. By getting involved in scientific research as soon as possible, honors/scholars students will better understand pharmaceutical science’s status as a bench science and have the opportunity to participate in original, ground-breaking laboratory work.
 

Learn more about the B.S. Pharmaceutical Science program and admission requirements

Advisor

Headshot of Bin Su.

Bin Su, Ph.D.

Undergraduate Program Director
Email: B.SU@csuohio.edu

 

 

There are a variety of scholarships available for incoming freshman and transfer students. Please see details below about how to apply for these scholarships.  We also provide a Roadmap to Financial Aid that simplifies the process. Students are encouraged to fill out the FAFSA form for consideration of all types of financial aid.
 

Learn more about scholarships here

Learn more by requesting information or contacting a program staff member directly.

Program Director

Headshot of Bin Su.

Bin Su, Ph.D.

Undergraduate Program Director
Email: B.SU@csuohio.edu

 

 

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Contact Info

Mailing Address
Cleveland State University
Dept. of Chemistry
2121 Euclid Ave., CHM
Cleveland, OH 44115-2214

Campus Location
Science & Research Center (SR)
2351 Euclid Avenue, Rm. 397

Contact Us
Phone: 216.687.2451
Fax: 216.687.9298
m.r.jones@csuohio.edu