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PhD in Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Sciences



Now accepting applications.
Tuition waiver and stipends available.

Dedicated mentorship and integrated curriculum to propel your success in discovery and innovation.

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Earn Your PhD in BPS at WesternU

WesternU’s PhD program in Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Sciences is a vibrant academic experience designed for students passionate about becoming a research scientist or working in a related profession. Our faculty is deeply committed to caring about students and helping them achieve success. As respected practitioners and scholars who keep pace with the latest teaching techniques and technology, our professors are committed to helping you master the material. With diverse areas of study and research including Pharmaceutics and Nanotechnology, Cardiovascular Physiology and Pharmacology, Neuropharmacology and so much more, WesternU’s BPS program ensures you’re ready for your future—and prepared to make a positive impact on the world.
Application Requirements & FAQs
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Our Unique Tuition-Free Program

As one of the few biotechnology PhD programs in the United States, WesternU’s BPS classes combine pharmaceutical sciences with biotechnology in smaller class settings for true one-on-one student support. With personalized attention and focused training, students develop and maturate as scientists in a fully nurturing academic environment and beyond. Even better? Students who enter our PhD program are guaranteed to receive a full tuition waiver and get a stipend for the duration of their education—so you could earn your PhD at no cost to you.

Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Sciences at WesternU Stands Apart

Funding

WesternU is rated 14th in research funding for private colleges of pharmacy in the United States (AACP 2022-23). Funding is earned from National Institute of Health and non-Federal grant funding including public, state and private association and foundations.

Diverse Scientific Department

WesternU’s BPS program faculty come from a very diverse scientific background and expertise. From neuroscientists and chemists to immunologists and immunotherapy experts and everyone in between, you’ll find mentors versed in your specialty. Learn more about faculty research.

Real-World Experience

Students have the opportunity to do an internship at a biotechnology or pharmaceutical sciences company to work outside of the traditional academic environment, preparing them for life after graduation.

  • Two scientists wearing masks and gloves work together in a laboratory. One is handling a tray of samples while the other examines a set of equipment notes. Both are dressed in lab coats.

  • Innovation in

    BPS Education

    WesternU’s BPS program is about more than going to class and labs—it’s a rich and varied academic experience designed to prepare them for a rewarding career. It starts with our diverse scientific department, who supplement classroom learning with scientific internships with biotech or pharmaceutical companies for real-world experience. Students have the opportunity to learn from a range of seminar speakers and decorated alumni who provide valuable insights to challenges and accomplishments in the field. Students also benefit from a course dedicated to scientific writing to prepare them to write research papers, along with a graduate seminar that enhances scientific communication skills and prepares students to give scientific talks and presentations. Not only do they learn how to become better communicators, they learn how to listen and formulate questions and have the opportunity to attend scientific conferences to share their findings and network.

    PhD in Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Sciences Curriculum
  • A person wearing a lab coat and face mask is using a microscope in a laboratory filled with scientific equipment and supplies.

Expert Faculty, Caring Mentors

Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Sciences students benefit from the support of our dedicated faculty, who mentor students through every step of the program—from conducting original research labs to confidently presenting results.

WesternU’s students thrive in a hands-on, nurturing learning environment.
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Arbi Nazarian, PhD
Professor

“We focus on helping our students develop strong scientific communication skills through courses like Graduate Seminar and Scientific Writing. This gives them the confidence and ability to pursue a wide range of exciting career paths.”

Two scientists in lab coats analyze green cell structures on a computer screen in a laboratory. One is pointing to the screen, guiding the other in understanding the data.
David J. Sanchez, PhD
Associate Professor

“The program’s unique dual focus on biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences really makes us special. We are here to make life better for all–we feel an incredible sense of purpose.”

A woman wearing a lab coat sits at a workstation in a laboratory, smiling at the camera. Laboratory equipment and notes are visible in the background.
Ying Huang, MD, PhD
Professor

“I enjoy working among the close-knit student culture. We encourage social activities outside the lab, such as beach outings and hiking, and fund these opportunities through the program.”

“Working with my faculty mentor and others has given me the collaborative experience that is really essential when working in a lab.”

Kevin Ventocilla
WesternU Student, MS Biotechnology & Pharmaceutical Sciences
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WesternU VIRTUAL TOURS

Western University of Health Sciences is one of the most comprehensive graduate schools for the health professions in the nation. Immerse yourself in 360-degree views, videos and photos that showcase WesternU’s colleges, labs, and programs.
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Accreditation

The PhD-BPS program is accredited by the WASC Senior Colleges and University Commission.