Prospective students may benefit from reviewing the following responses to frequently asked questions about the MS in Pharmaceutical Health Services Research (PHSR) program.
While this is a program geared towards experienced professionals, students are still expected to attend class in-person at the School of Pharmacy.
What time commitment should I expect to make for this program?
The MS in PHSR program can be completed in two years. Students enrolled in the program are considered full-time. Once enrolled, students are expected to be fully engaged in their studies.
The MS in PHSR program offers both a thesis and non-thesis option.
How long does it take to complete the program?
The MS in PHSR program is designed to be completed in two years.
Can I request a course waiver or partial course waiver?
Yes. Requests for course waivers may be made but are subject to review by the Graduate Program Director. If any courses are waived, the equivalent credits must be earned through electives.
Can I have the application fee waived?
If you are experiencing hardship and would like to request a fee waiver, please email Dr. Wendy Camelo Castillo, graduate program director, to request the waiver.
Are Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores required for admission?
We are not reviewing GRE scores this year as part of the application review and admissions process. You may submit your scores at your discretion, but the admissions committee will not review GRE scores.
Are TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores required for admission?
The policy regarding language requirements states, "Applicants whose native language or language of the home is not English must take the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam, or the Duolingo English Test. The minimum acceptable TOEFL score for admission is 80 for the internet-based test (IBT). IELTS test takers must score no less than Band 7 (total). Duolingo English test takers must score no less than 115.
Can I pay the tuition and fees in installments?
Students can elect to participate in the University's installment plan. It splits the total cost of the semester into three payments (August, September, and October for fall; and January, February, and March for spring). There is a $10 administrative fee per semester to participate in this plan, and your application to participate must be processed before each semester starts.
If offered admission to the MS program, am I able to request a deferral?
Only in very exceptional circumstances (major life event or illness, mandated military service, etc.) will MS admissions deferral requests be considered. The final decision is left to the admissions committee, the graduate program director, and the department chair.