UC Irvine School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences Master of Science in Pharmacology (MSP) Application FAQ

The Master of Science in Pharmacology (MSP) program at the UC Irvine School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences is a 100% online, two-year program that allows students to earn their master’s degree and maintain a work/life balance. Our program is perfect for working professionals and anyone else who can benefit from a remote schooling structure.

To make the application process as seamless as possible for our prospective students, we’ve compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about submitting your application to the MSP program. 

What is the deadline to apply for the MSP program?

If you are interested in starting the MSP program in the Fall 2024 semester, we encourage you to submit your application by the priority deadline of March 1, 2024. The final deadline is June 14, 2024.

Where can I begin the application process?

The application for the MSP program is available through the UCI Graduate Division.

Is there an application fee? Can I request a fee waiver?

The application fee is $135 for US citizens and permanent residents and $155 for international applicants. Domestic applicants who are veterans, have participated in certain minority research programs, or have documented financial need may be eligible for a fee waiver.

Who should apply for the MSP program?

The MSP program at UCI is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a way to advance their career in pharmacology while being able to attend to other priorities. With totally online classes, this program is an opportunity for people who are not local to campus to earn a degree from the University of California.

What career opportunities exist for graduates of the MSP program?

The advanced training in pharmacology offered through the MSP program prepares students to succeed in a range of careers available throughout academic, industrial, and government settings, including positions in biotechnology companies, government agencies, research laboratories, academic programs, technical and scientific writing, patenting, and sales and marketing. 

What materials do I need to apply?

Your online application will need to be supplemented with several documents, including your transcripts, Statement of Purpose, and Personal History Statement.

You should also contact three people you trust to speak to your academic and professional achievements and talents in letters of recommendation. Professors, employers, and colleagues are generally best to provide letters of recommendation.

What should I include in my Statement of Purpose and Personal History Statement?

Your Statement of Purpose should express how your desire to complete the MSP program fits in to your academic and professional experience and goals for the future. By sharing your knowledge and achievements, your Statement of Purpose should show that you are a good fit for the program.

In your Personal History Statement, you should detail your personal background, outlining why you have decided to pursue an MSP and including any relevant stories and challenges you have faced.

What are the admission requirements?

As an applicant to the MSP program, your undergraduate education should include at least two years of coursework related to biology and/or chemistry and a minimum of one year of laboratory experience. Both laboratory experience completed in school and professional laboratory experience are acceptable.

Do I need to take the GRE before applying for the MSP program?

No, GRE scores are not needed to apply for the MSP program.

What should my GPA be to be considered eligible?

A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 is required to be considered eligible for the MSP program.

How do I demonstrate English language proficiency? 

If your undergraduate or master’s degree is not from an institution at which English was the sole language of instruction (according to the World Higher Education Database), you must demonstrate English proficiency via the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or International English Language Testing System (IELTS) assessment. Applicants who take the TOEFL must achieve a minimum score of 80, and applicants who take the IELTS must achieve a minimum score of 7.

When will I hear if I have been accepted to the MSP program?

We review applications on a rolling basis. Applicants should hear about their status within three to four weeks of submitting an application.

Where can I find more information about applying for the MSP program at UCI?

Please explore the information available on our website to find complete details on the MSP program. If you have additional questions, you can contact our admissions team at pharmsci-grad@uci.edu. You can also find more information about applying for graduate studies at UCI via the Graduate Division website.