Pharmaceutical Sciences

Freshmen admitted to the university directly enroll in the major. 

Both transfer students from other universities and current Ohio State students seeking to change their major must have at least a 2.5 cumulative GPA to be able to enroll in the major. Interested students should view the College of Pharmacy's transfer overview for more information.

Pharmaceutical sciences courses in the BSPS curriculum include drug discovery and development, biochemistry, ethics and professionalism, and instrumental analysis. Major course work includes courses in the core pharmaceutical sciences: pharmaceutics, pharmacology, medicinal chemistry and pharmacy practice. Students must also take course work in organic and general chemistry, biology, physics, physiology, anatomy, microbiology and calculus, as well as electives within an area of specialization. Various courses incorporate lecture/recitation sections and laboratory experiences. 

In learning the disciplines of medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics, pharmacology and pharmaceutical administration, BSPS students study the areas of drug discovery, delivery, action and therapy.

The College of Pharmacy offers an annual study abroad trip over spring break, allowing students to earn elective credit towards their degree while exploring pharmacy in different cultures around the world.

The College of Pharmacy provides opportunities for students to participate in the Honors Program, various Scholars programs and the Early Assurance Program for the Doctor of Pharmacy program. All of these students have the opportunity to live in Pharmacy House, a living-learning community for students of all majors with an interest in pharmacy.

The Early Assurance Program provides admission to the College of Pharmacy’s Doctor of Pharmacy program for a select group of freshmen. The pathway is intended to guarantee talented students the opportunity to enter the PharmD program after the completion of prerequisites and a bachelor’s degree. Students are required to live in Pharmacy House for one year.

To be eligible for admission to the Early Assurance Program, students must meet the following requirements:

• be current high school seniors
• be admitted to Ohio State’s Columbus campus for the autumn term
• submit a separate application to the College of Pharmacy Office of Academic Affairs

Students who want to learn more about pharmaceutical professions and professional school admissions may be interested in joining the Pharmacy Club.

Students may also be interested in Outreach Rx. This organization works to increase access to and proper usage of medications in Columbus communities by providing educational outreach programs that familiarize people with the healthcare system and operations of a community pharmacy. Members have presented at international student orientation programs and collaborated with pharmacists around the city to educate grade-school students on drug safety.

Graduates of the BSPS program will be prepared for graduate education, graduate professional education or a health-related career. The pharmaceutical industry offers career opportunities in sales and marketing, drug research and development, quality assurance, and professional services.

The BSPS is a non-licensure undergraduate major. It is intended as preparation for graduate studies in the pharmaceutical sciences, graduate professional studies or entry-level employment in the pharmaceutical industry. In order to become a licensed pharmacist, graduates must complete the Doctor of Pharmacy program.