About this major
Pharmacology is the branch of biology that studies drug action on biological systems. Students learn about drug composition, properties, interactions, toxicology, and the therapeutic effects of pharmaceuticals on humans and animals.
Student Reviews Summary
Curriculum snapshot
Principles of Pharmacology
Covers the basic principles of drug action, including absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion.
Molecular Pharmacology
Focuses on the molecular mechanisms of drug action and the structure-activity relationships of pharmacological agents.
Clinical Pharmacology
Explores the application of pharmacology principles in the clinical setting, emphasizing the use of drugs in the treatment of disease.
Neuropharmacology
Examines the effects of drugs on the nervous system and the treatment of neurological disorders.
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
Studies the dynamic processes of drug absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion, and their pharmacological effects.
Toxicology
Focuses on the adverse effects of chemicals on living organisms and the assessment of drug safety.
Career outcomes
- Pharmacologist
- Research Scientist
- Toxicologist
- Clinical Research Associate
- Regulatory Affairs Specialist
Pros
- High demand for pharmacologists in various sectors
- Opportunities for cutting-edge research
- Potential to impact health outcomes significantly
Considerations
- Requires strong foundation in chemistry and biology
- Can involve long hours in research settings
- May require advanced degrees for career advancement
Similar majors
Biochemistry
Focuses on chemical processes within living organisms, closely related to drug interaction studies.
Pharmacy
Emphasizes the preparation and dispensing of medications and patient care, intersecting with pharmacology in drug action.
Toxicology
Centers on the study of adverse effects of chemicals, closely related to the safety assessment in pharmacology.
Biomedical Science
Broad study of the biological and clinical aspects of health and disease, overlapping with pharmacological research.
Medicinal Chemistry
Focuses on the design and chemical synthesis of pharmaceuticals, integral to drug development in pharmacology.