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Master of Science (M.S.) in Pharmacology & Toxicology - On-Campus

The on-campus Master of Science degree (M.S.) in Pharmacology & Toxicology provides advanced training in molecular, cellular and organ systems, pharmacology and toxicology and scientific writing.

Apply for M.S.

Program Overview

See the KU PharmTox Student Handbook for complete details.

Structure —

Classroom lectures and hands-on research training in faculty laboratory.

Audience —

Students able to attend classes on KU's Lawrence, Kansas campus, seeking advanced training for academic and/or professional advancement.

Standard KU Graduate Admission Requirements —

Students must meet all requirements for Graduate Admissions.

Important Dates —

  • On-Campus Masters Application Deadline: April 27
  • On-Campus Masters Admission Decisions: March/April

Prerequisites —

Previous Degree Requirement —

Must have a bachelors or master's degree in biology, chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology or other related disciplines.

Grade Point Average (GPA) —

  • 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 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.
  • Request that your testing agency send official English Language Proficiency scores directly to KU (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)

  • 18 credit hours - Core coursework in pharmacology, toxicology, statistics and scientific ethics
  • 8 credit hours - Additional required courses and electives
  • 4 credit hours - Research thesis

See Courses - M.S. for detailed information about required and elective coursework.

Thesis —

  • Thesis committee formed
  • Faculty advisor and the thesis committee monitor progression of research project and final thesis presentation/defense
  • Draft research proposal and presentation completed by end of second semester

Research —

Original laboratory, clinical or computational research is an essential component of the on-campus master's program.

  • Research activity comprises 12 credit hours toward degree
  • Students may request specific faculty member
  • Laboratory assignment based on mutual agreement and research interest
  • Faculty members help with general questions and help guide research

Time Frame —

  • Program typically completed in two years
  • Lecture courses should be completed within three semesters to allow time to focus on research project and thesis in spring semester of year two.
  • Thesis defense typically occurs May - June of the fourth semester
  • Degree must be completed within 10 years from initial enrollment

Financial Aid —

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