Distance Master's Degree (Literature-Based)

The literature-based Distance Master of Science Degree (M.S.) in Pharmacology & Toxicology provides advanced training in molecular, cellular and organ systems pharmacology and toxicology and scientific writing. Rolling admission.

Structure:
Online lectures and literature-based research thesis

Audience:
Students unable to relocate to Lawrence, Kansas, and without access to a lab, seeking advanced training for academic and/or professional advancement (e.g., Ph.D. programs, admissions to professional health science programs).

Prerequisites:

• Degree(s): Must have a bachelors or master's degree in biology, chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, or other related disciplines
• GPA Requirement: Minimum of 3.0 required
  Special attention given to grades in relevant science courses such as cellular/molecular biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, statistics, etc.
• English Language Proficiency Requirements:
  • Students who are non-native English speakers, must demonstrate proficiency in reading, writing and listening via English Proficiency Scores from TOEFL, IELTS or PTE tests
  • See KU's English Proficiency Requirements for detailed information, including minimum score requirements.
  • TOEFL Code: 6871-30
• Undergraduate Research Experience: Applicants are strongly encouraged to gain undergraduate research experience.

Coursework:
30 total credit hours (grade of C or better, with overall GPA of at least 3.0)

• 19 credit hours - Core coursework in pharmacology, toxicology, statistics and scientific ethics
• 7 credit hours - Additional required courses and electives
• 4 credit hours - Literature-based research thesis

See Curriculum for detailed information about required and elective coursework.

Thesis:

• Student and advisor select a literature thesis topic
• Proposal reviewed by a three-member committee (advisor and two additional faculty members)
• Thesis earns passing grade or student gets feedback and has at least one month to resubmit
• Student presents final oral defense by video conference to department and committee
• Student answers questions from the advisory committee

Time Frame:

• Online courses are designed to be completed in eight weeks (w/exception of literature research proposal)
• Earliest possible program completion: two years/24 months
• Students urged to complete the program within four years of admission to maintain momentum and focus
• Three credit hours per calendar year required to remain in good standing. Failure to do so will require re-admittance.
• Degree must be completed within 10 years from initial enrollment per KU policy

Financial Aid:
Master's students are responsible for their own tuition & fees.
For information about federal financial aid, visit KU Financial Aid & Scholarships.