Pharmaceutical Sciences Major (BSPS)

Explore the science behind tomorrow's medicines.

Interested in chemistry, biology, and how medicines work?

At Wisconsin Lutheran College (WLC), you can explore the science behind the discovery, development, and testing of medications that improve human health.

Our Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (BSPS) program, offered in collaboration with the Medical College of Wisconsin (MCW) School of Pharmacy, combines three years of undergraduate education at WLC with a fourth year of advanced pharmaceutical sciences coursework taught by MCW faculty.

You'll build a strong scientific foundation and prepare to explore careers in pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, drug development, and related fields—or continue your education through graduate or professional study.

Why Study Pharmaceutical Sciences at WLC?

Build a strong foundation in science

Your first three years at WLC will focus on undergraduate coursework that prepares you to understand the science behind medications and their effects on the human body. You'll study in a supportive learning environment where professors know you personally and help you develop your scientific knowledge and skills.

Learn from experts at the Medical College of Wisconsin

Through WLC's partnership with the MCW School of Pharmacy, you'll complete advanced pharmaceutical sciences courses taught by MCW faculty during your fourth year. You'll explore topics such as drug discovery, pharmacology, biotechnology, and clinical research.

Connect science with purpose

At WLC, your education goes beyond preparing for a career. In a Christian learning community, you'll be encouraged to think critically, develop your strengths, and consider how your knowledge and abilities can serve others.

How Does the Pharmaceutical Sciences Program Work?

The BSPS is designed as a four-year bachelor's degree that combines WLC's undergraduate science education with advanced coursework through the MCW School of Pharmacy.

Years 1–3: Build Your Scientific Foundation at WLC

Complete undergraduate coursework at WLC, including biology, chemistry, mathematics, and other courses required for your degree. You'll work with a faculty advisor to plan your studies and prepare for the advanced coursework offered through MCW.

Year 4: Study Advanced Pharmaceutical Sciences Through MCW

During your senior year, you'll complete 27 credits of advanced pharmaceutical sciences coursework taught by MCW School of Pharmacy faculty.

Courses are delivered online in an asynchronous format, allowing you to complete coursework on a flexible schedule. Optional on-campus interactive review sessions provide additional opportunities to engage with course material.

After successfully completing all degree requirements, you'll earn your Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences from Wisconsin Lutheran College.

What Will You Study?

Pharmaceutical sciences brings together biology, chemistry, and healthcare to explore how medications are discovered, developed, tested, and used.

During your fourth year, your MCW coursework will include:

Fall Semester — 14 Credits

  • Pharmaceutical Drug Delivery
  • Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Discovery
  • Pharmacology & Toxicology
  • Biotechnology
  • US Healthcare System

Spring Semester — 13 Credits

  • Analytical Techniques
  • Pharmacokinetics & Pharmacogenomics
  • Clinical Research & Biostatistics
  • Pharmacy Research & Seminar

Through these courses, you'll explore how drugs interact with the body, how biotechnology is changing medicine, how researchers evaluate drug safety and effectiveness, and how scientific discoveries move toward applications in healthcare.

What Can You Do With a Pharmaceutical Sciences Degree?

A bachelor's degree in pharmaceutical sciences can provide a foundation for opportunities in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, healthcare-related organizations, and scientific research.

Depending on your interests, qualifications, and additional education or experience, potential career directions include:

  • Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Research: Support research, drug discovery, product development, and scientific testing.
  • Quality Assurance and Regulatory Affairs: Help organizations evaluate product quality, follow regulatory requirements, and maintain safety standards.
  • Pharmaceutical Manufacturing: Contribute to the production, development, and quality control of medications and other pharmaceutical products.
  • Clinical Research: Support research studies, clinical trials, and the analysis of healthcare data.
  • Graduate and Professional Education: Pursue additional education in pharmaceutical sciences, biotechnology, pharmacy, medicine, or related fields.

Some positions and professional pathways require graduate education, professional licensure, or additional experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Start Your Journey in Pharmaceutical Sciences

Interested in the science behind medicine and the possibilities of a career in pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, or healthcare?

At WLC, you'll find a supportive Christian community, professors who know you personally, and a distinctive opportunity to advance your scientific education through the MCW School of Pharmacy.