Pharmacology and Toxicology: Pharmacology MSc

In the Master of Science (MSc) program, students are expected to undertake self-directed study and demonstrate proficiency in pharmacological principles throughout the course of the program. They are able to engage in one of two formats of study: 1) thesis-based study or 2) course-based study in the field of Applied Clinical Pharmacology (ACP).

In the thesis-based study, students are expected to think critically about scientific issues and develop a knowledge base in pharmacology while formulating hypotheses in a specific area of pharmacological research. They will test their hypotheses through active research and present their investigations in a thesis.

The thesis-based MSc program can be taken on a full-time or part-time basis.

MSc Program (Thesis-Based Option)

Minimum Admission Requirements

  • Applicants are admitted under the General Regulations of the School of Graduate Studies. Applicants must also satisfy the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology's additional admission requirements stated below.

  • Appropriate bachelor's degree from a recognized university with a final-year average of at least a B+.

  • Applicants are normally required to have taken courses in physiology, biochemistry, or applied sciences sufficient to form a foundation for their work in pharmacology.

  • All successful applicants are responsible for obtaining research supervision and financial support before they are permitted to officially register in their program.

Completion Requirements

  • Coursework. Students must successfully complete 0.75 full-course equivalent (FCE) as follows:

    • PCL3000H Foundational Pharmacology Principles

    • PCL3001H Pharmacology Research and Communication Skills in Year 1

    • 0.25 elective FCE.

  • Each student will present a departmental seminar after approximately one year in the program.

  • Each student will participate in a research program and present the results of the investigation as a written thesis. The thesis will be evaluated and defended to the satisfaction of a thesis examination committee.

  • MSc students in pharmacology who intend to continue their studies in the PhD program may choose to be evaluated during their MSc oral defence.

  • Minimum period of one full year of residence, during which time the student is required to be on campus full-time and consequently in such geographical proximity as to be able to participate fully in the department's activities associated with the program.

Mode of Delivery: In person
Program Length: 6 sessions full-time (typical registration sequence: FWS-FWS); 9 sessions part-time
Time Limit: 3 years full-time; 6 years part-time