“For a long time, I couldn’t go back to school due to barriers like having to quit my job to attend class in person, and thus, not having the ability to afford childcare. As a full-time working professional and a parent of young children, the flexibility of the Master of Science in Pharmacology program’s online format has been essential,” shared Milena Karny, an MSP student who will graduate in June 2026.
Before enrolling in the UC Irvine School of Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Karny attended UC Berkeley, where she studied molecular environmental biology and human health.
“After graduating from UC Berkeley, I knew I wanted to make a meaningful impact in people’s lives,” she said. “I initially worked in biotech before transitioning to clinical research, where I found my passion. UC Irvine’s year-long Clinical Trials Certificate Program was my entry point into the field, and it left a lasting impression. After years in the industry, I was ready to advance my career in drug development and push myself further to address unmet patient needs, so returning to UC Irvine for the MSP program felt like a natural next step.”
The MSP program provides students (who are often working professionals) with a foundation in pharmacology, drug discovery and development processes, and experimental data analysis through a two-year, 100% online degree program.
“What I am learning in the MSP program directly supports my day-to-day work. I’ve expanded my knowledge in areas like drug development, disease management, adverse events, and healthcare economics. I am more confident, and it is opening up opportunities that were inaccessible before,” said Karny, who currently has a role in research and development at a pharmaceutical company.
“While juggling school, work, and family life has been intense, this program is truly transforming my career and personal growth. I’m constantly inspired by my cohort and the outstanding faculty to keep pushing myself further,” she continued. “The relevance of what we’re learning is undeniable — if anyone is questioning whether academic learning can translate to industry impact, this program is proof that it can.”
