Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at The Ohio State University
Study Pharmaceutical Sciences at The Ohio State University, a Bachelor degree offered on the Columbus campus in United States of America. This Full Time program is delivered on campus in English and takes approximately 4 years to complete. Students benefit from a structured learning experience designed to build both theoretical knowledge and practical experience. The next intake is scheduled for August 24, 2027.
About Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences
Pharmaceutical Sciences
Degree: BS
Campus: Columbus
College: Pharmacy
The Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences is a unique undergraduate program that prepares students for careers in a variety of health professions and biomedical research. Students select one of two tracks, enabling them to focus in areas that would be most relevant to their post-baccalaureate goals.
The health care professions pathway is designed for students interested in pursuing clinical careers in pharmacy, medicine, veterinary medicine, dentistry and other health care professions.
The drug discovery and development pathway is designed for students intending to pursue graduate school and/or research-based careers in pharmaceutical sciences.
Get started
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.
Curriculum
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.
Study abroad
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.
Honors and Scholars
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
Student organizations
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.
Possible careers
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.
Requirements and Admission Criteria for Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at The Ohio State University
Entry Requirements
Criteria of our holistic review, in no particular order.
Successful completion of university preparatory courses
High school performance (class rank or GPA), including participation in accelerated programs like Honors, AP and IB; Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for class rank or GPA
Standardized test score (ACT or SAT); Ohio State does not have minimum requirements for ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Ability and desire to contribute to and engage with a diverse campus community
Experiences that demonstrate leadership or engaged involvement (e.g., co-curricular activities, work experiences or military service)
Status as a first-generation university student
Demonstration of outstanding talent in a particular area
High school performance if adversely affected by physical, mental or learning environment factors
Eligibility for and likelihood of benefiting from organized support services at Ohio State
Enrollment in your intended major
Once it is determined that you are admissible, you will be considered for enrollment in the college of your intended major. Read about
English Requirements
- IELTSMin 6.5
- TOEFLMin 79
English Program Requirements
we require evidence of English language proficiency, unless you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Tuition and Fee Information for Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at The Ohio State University
How to Apply for Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences at The Ohio State University
How do I submit scores?
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.
Tips for sending scores to Ohio State
Scores must come directly from the testing agency. When you register for the ACT or SAT, indicate that you want your scores sent to Ohio State.
If you already took the test but didn't send your scores to Ohio State, you can order them for a fee. Order in advance to be sure scores reach us by the application deadline.
We must receive standardized test scores by your application deadline (either November 1 or February 1 for autumn semester applicants).
October 2 (SAT) and October 23 (ACT) are your last 2021 test dates if you want your scores to be considered for our November 1 early action deadline. Important! If you plan to test on those dates, you must request that Ohio State receive scores when you register for the test. And please note: If you choose to have your scores considered, you won’t be able to review scores from these dates prior to submitting your application by the November 1 deadline.
Applicants who will have been out of high school for two or more years by their term of enrollment are not required to submit scores.
Is the essay required?
The essay is not required for either the ACT or SAT.
Should I take a standardized test more than once?
Ohio State looks at the highest composite score from a single test date. Taking the test (and having scores sent to us) more than once, while not required, may work to your advantage.
How does Ohio State look at scores?
When considering students for admission or Honors and Scholars selection, we consider the best official composite / combined score from a single test administration. Ohio State does not mix sub-scores from multiple tests.
These items plus the Common Application (STEP 3) make up a complete application. We must receive all items by the deadline to consider your application on time.
Official transcripts
High school transcripts
Request that your high school or secondary school send transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates for coursework from the final four years (grades 9-12) to Ohio State.
How to send your transcripts to Ohio State:
Your high school counselor can upload the transcripts / documents / official copies of examination certificates using Common App, Naviance or other secure electronic delivery service.
Your high school counselor can email the transcripts to [email protected].
If electronic submission is not possible, please mail your official transcripts to our express mail address.
Faxed transcripts will not be accepted.
Foreign language documents must be translated into English by the issuing institution, an authorized translator or a teacher of the language. Any additional requirements will be posted to your Applicant Center, so be sure to check your application status regularly after you've applied.
Official ACT or SAT scores
Ohio State has adopted a TEST-OPTIONAL policy for 2022 applicants. Learn more.How do I submit my scores?
We must receive your official ACT or SAT score sent electronically directly from the testing agency. Scores from transcripts will not be considered. Read more about score requirements in STEP 1.
Optional: Recommendation from a teacher or counselor
While not required, your counselor may send a maximum of two letters of recommendation electronically through the Common Application.
If an electronic option isn’t available, your counselor may email your letter(s) to
[email protected]; the letter must include your first and last name and OSU ID number, found on the email we send acknowledging receipt of your application. Letters sent via email are subject to sender verification.
Official proof of English language skills
You must request that your testing agency send official scores electronically to Ohio State demonstrating the English proficiency level outlined below:
TOEFL (internet-based test or internet-based test Home Edition*): 79 or higher
IELTS or IELTS Indicator*: 6.5 or higher
ACT: 21 or higher on the English section
SAT: 27 or higher on the Reading Test
Duolingo*: 105 or higher
You are exempt from this requirement if you have completed three full years of school at a U.S. regionally accredited high school or if you are a citizen of, or have received a bachelor’s degree from, Australia, Belize, British Caribbean, British West Indies, Canada (except Quebec), England, Guyana, Ireland, Liberia, New Zealand, Scotland, the United States or Wales.
Ohio State has an intensive English program for students who wish to improve their language skills called the American Language Program. A separate application is required for this program. Ohio State does not offer conditional admission to students who enroll in the American Language Program.
*To accommodate applicants affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, The Ohio State University will accept Duolingo, the IELTS Indicator and the TOEFL internet-based test Home Edition from any international student applying for spring 2022 or autumn 2022 admission. All Duolingo test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival to campus. TOEFL Home Edition and IELTS Indicator test takers are required to take an English placement exam upon arrival unless they qualify for a TOEFL or IELTS score exemption.
United States of America, Columbus