Programs in pharmaceutical sciences teach people how to develop medicines using chemicals and plants. Students learn chemistry and research methods. They also learn about drug synthesis and lab safety.

The Human Genome Project began in 1990 with the goal of mapping 30,000 genes. If accomplished, scientists would have a better understanding of genetics and how DNA works. DNA is made up of proteins that dictate how a living thing looks, fights infection, and sometimes how it behaves. So what does this have to do with pharmaceutical science? Plenty! Pharmaceutical scientists have always studied medicine and drugs. However, with advances in research on how medicine and genetics interact, new drug therapies can be developed. Eventually, cures might be found for life-threatening diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's.

Pharmaceutical scientists conduct research to discover or develop new kinds of medications and treatments. They also run clinical trials to test the effectiveness of new drug therapies. With the completion of the Human Genome Project, people trained in pharmaceutical science will be in high demand.

In pharmaceutical sciences programs, you take several advanced science and math courses. These include statistics, biochemistry, and pharmacology. You also take courses in genetics and drug therapies. Depending on your interests, you can specialize in microbiology, toxicology, physiology, pharmacology, or other similar fields. Many of your courses will focus on studying biologically active substances, such as those found in plants and animals. You also study the interactions between drugs and the body.

Several four-year colleges and universities offer graduate programs in pharmaceutical sciences. Typically, they are offered through the school's pharmacy program. In most cases, you get a Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences after you finish your bachelor's degree. Some programs offer master's degrees as well. However, the most common degree is a doctorate. Most programs take three to five years to complete after you finish your bachelor's degree.

Most people with degrees in pharmaceutical sciences work as professors or researchers. You can work for medical and pharmacy programs at universities. Or, you can work for drug, cosmetic, or chemical companies. You can also become a research scientist for government agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration or National Institutes of Health.