Pharmacology and Drug Development (BS)

The Bachelor of Science in Pharmacology and Drug Development (PDD) provides a well-defined pathway for science and non-science majors to gain significant knowledge in pharmacology, pharmaceutical sciences, toxicology and medical product development, marketing and use.  

Pharmacology is the science of drugs including their origin, composition, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, therapeutic uses and toxicology. Drug development is the discipline that deals with the process of turning a new chemical entity (NCE) into a safe and effective medication for the advancement of human health. Completion of the PDD major will significantly prepare USC undergraduates for advanced training in health related fields including pharmacy, medicine, dentistry, occupational therapy and other clinical specialties. The PDD major is also uniquely suited to provide course work applicable for undergraduates interested in drug discovery/development training that will lead to careers in biotech, pharmaceutical and biomedical industries ranging from private companies to governmental careers.

The Bachelor of Science in Pharmacology and Drug Development requires the completion of a minimum of 128 units that include:

1. General Education and Writing Requirements
2. Foundational courses designed to prepare students for the major
3. An introductory 4-unit lower-division (200 level) course in Pharmaceutical and Regulatory Science (RXRS)
4. A minimum number of 32 units of upper-division (300 level and above) courses in Pharmaceutical and Regulatory Science (RXRS)
5. A minimum of 8 units of upper-division (300 level and above) courses in Biological Sciences (BISC) unique to the major

The Bachelor of Science in Pharmacology and Drug Development provides a novel path for science and non-science undergraduates at USC to gain significant knowledge in the disciplines of pharmacology and drug development. Pharmacology is the science of drugs including their origin, composition, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, therapeutic uses and toxicology. Drug development is the discipline that deals with the process of turning a new chemical entity (NCE) into a safe and effective medication for the advancement of human health. Completion of the major will prepare students for advanced clinical training in health-related fields including pharmacy, medicine and dentistry. It will also provide foundational education that can lead to new opportunities for students considering careers in biotech, pharmaceutics and biomedical industries.

The Bachelor of Science in Pharmacology and Drug Development is conferred by the USC School of Pharmacy.