Under the larger umbrella of Masters in Health Sciences at Touro University California (TUC), the MSc Program in Medical Health Sciences of the College of Pharmacy (MS-MHS-COP) represents a 10-month program consisting of two semesters of didactic work and intensive research training. The course of study begins in August and ends in May of the following calendar year. The 19- and 18-week didactic fall and spring semesters, respectively, correspond to those of the College of Pharmacy’s concurrent PharmD Program. The Program Director will arrange and oversee a successful and rewarding research experience in collaboration with the program coordinator and participating faculty advisors.

This MS Program is designed to provide students with the knowledge and tools to be effective scientific or clinical investigators. Individual interaction with faculty advisors on current research topics is at the core of this exciting program. Classroom coursework includes laboratory techniques, biostatistics, scientific writing, integrated pharmaceutical sciences, critical assessment and presentation of the primary scientific literature and oral scientific presentations.

This MS Program is carefully integrated. Course content is designed to be pertinent to the degree. No transfer credit, credit for experiential learning, or advanced placement can therefore be granted.

Student testimonials (from the Class of 2015)   "I had an incredible research experience and would not have changed anything about it." "I am very satisfied with the research component of the program.  I was able to challenge myself to work independently and become self-motivated." "The research component of this program was excellent.  I loved working with just one advisor, and having the opportunity to work year round on one project." "This was truly a unique experience that has given me a greater appreciation for scientific research and scientific writing."

Program Strengths

Competitiveness:

a)      Short duration (10 months)

b)      Research intensive (~70 % of effort)

c)      Low tuition for degree (< $25,000)

d)      High retention (98 %) and graduation (98 %) rates since inception of the MS Program in 2012

e)      Competitive career advantages when applying to positions in the pharmaceutical industry or in doctoral programs (PharmD, PhD, or other)

f)       Provides a pipeline for the COP PharmD program (61 % of MS graduates)

Faculty Contributions to Program:

a)      Committed faculty members provide one-on-one student mentoring

b)      Commitment to research and scholarship

c)      Faculty engaged in constantly improving the curriculum

d)      Use of multiple data sources in curriculum improvement

e)      Students consistently express a high degree of program satisfaction