Best Online Masters in Pharmacy Degrees for 2023

Master's Degree in Pharmacy Career Options & Salary

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Why Earn a Master’s in Pharmacology?

If you want to become a fully licensed pharmacist or staff pharmacist, you'll need to obtain a doctorate (PharmD). There is little point in earning a master’s degree alone in pharmacy, as few jobs are available without a PharmD degree. However, obtaining a master’s in pharmacology, a related but separate field, offers various well-paying career options.

The American Society for Pharmacology and Experimental Therapeutics (ASPET) defines pharmacology as the “science of how drugs act on biological systems and how the body responds to the drug”. The field encompasses the work of many disciplines, including the entire pharmaceutical industry, industrial pharmacy, health-system pharmacy administration, medicine, veterinary medicine, nursing, and dentistry. A career in pharmacology is a career in the biomedical sciences and it may offer the opportunity to perform cutting-edge research. Pharmacologists are often employed in government agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control, the Departments of Agriculture or Defense, the FDA, and many more. Many find employment in the private sector at pharmaceutical companies or in academia.

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  • M.S. - Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • M.S. - Biomedical Sciences
  • M.S. - Health-System Pharmacy Administration
  • M.S. - Medicinal Chemistry
  • M.S. - Pharmaceutics with Specialization
  • M.S. - Pharmacy Administration
  • Master of Pharmacy
  • And More

Students completing these master's level pharmacy degree programs will take courses in chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology, biomedical sciences, patient safety, clinical and medical pharmacology, health systems, and health-system pharmacy administration.

PROS

For those planning a career in the sciences, advancement is difficult without earning a graduate degree. With a master’s degree (M.S.) in pharmaceutical sciences, however, it is possible to perform interesting and important research while earning a good living. Most people going into scientific fields do so because they want to better the human condition in some way. That might mean finding cures for diseases, improving the environment, boosting crop production, or any one of the thousands of ways scientific research helps mankind. A person with a master’s degree in pharmacology or similar pharmacy degrees may become part of a team that saves lives.

Pharmacists with a PharmD are also candidates for a master’s degree in pharmacology if their previous M.S. wasn't in this specific field. A practicing staff pharmacist may find they prefer working in a laboratory on drug development rather than their current job. This degree makes the individual more attractive to certain industries and for high-level federal employment. While the pursuit of a master’s degree in pharmacology can lead them to a new career path, pharmacists generally work long hours, and time management is essential. As with many other degrees, an online master’s degree is an option for those graduate students seeking to switch careers into the pharmaceutical industry or to move into pharmacy leadership.

CONS

The few cons pertaining to obtaining a master’s degree in pharmacology primarily concern debt. The cost of a master’s degree (M.S.) in pharmacology, pharmaceutical sciences, or Master of Pharmacy depends on the school, but tuition averages $20,000. If you already have a considerable undergraduate student loan or other debt, you may want to think twice about taking on additional loans. However, the job prospects for those with a master’s degree in pharmacology, pharmaceutical sciences, or other pharmacy degrees are generally good, so taking on more debt to advance in an interesting and lucrative career may prove worthwhile in the long-term.

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What are the Best Online Network Administration Bachelor's Degree & Concentration Programs?

Online Network Administration Bachelors
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1

University of Cincinnati

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $12,598
    • Out-of-State: $27,932
  • Net Price: $20,827
  • Retention Rate: 88%
  • Graduation Rate: 73%
  • Total Enrollment: 40,826
  • Undergrad Students: 29,933
  • Graduate Students: 10,893
  • Diplomas Awarded: NA
  • Grads Salary: $42,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • University of Cincinnati
2

Kent State University

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $11,934
    • Out-of-State: $20,810
  • Net Price: $19,034
  • Retention Rate: 82%
  • Graduation Rate: 65%
  • Total Enrollment: 26,822
  • Undergrad Students: 21,621
  • Graduate Students: 5,201
  • Diplomas Awarded: NA
  • Grads Salary: $42,800
  • Student-to-faculty: 21:1
  • Kent State University
3

Lindenwood University

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $18,640
    • Out-of-State: $18,640
  • Net Price: $17,654
  • Retention Rate: 75%
  • Graduation Rate: 53%
  • Total Enrollment: 7,382
  • Undergrad Students: 4,822
  • Graduate Students: 2,560
  • Diplomas Awarded: NA
  • Grads Salary: $47,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 14:1
  • Lindenwood University
4

North Carolina A&T State University

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $6,733
    • Out-of-State: $20,243
  • Net Price: $9,145
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 53%
  • Total Enrollment: 12,753
  • Undergrad Students: 11,130
  • Graduate Students: 1,623
  • Diplomas Awarded: NA
  • Grads Salary: $41,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • North Carolina A&T State University
5

East Carolina University

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $7,297
    • Out-of-State: $23,574
  • Net Price: $14,762
  • Retention Rate: 81%
  • Graduation Rate: 66%
  • Total Enrollment: 28,021
  • Undergrad Students: 22,463
  • Graduate Students: 5,558
  • Diplomas Awarded: NA
  • Grads Salary: $37,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • East Carolina University
6

Southeast Missouri State University

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $8,715
    • Out-of-State: $15,285
  • Net Price: $13,291
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 54%
  • Total Enrollment: 10,001
  • Undergrad Students: 8,929
  • Graduate Students: 1,072
  • Diplomas Awarded: NA
  • Grads Salary: $39,900
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • Southeast Missouri State University
7

Bellevue University

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $8,310
    • Out-of-State: $8,310
  • Net Price: $15,229
  • Retention Rate: 72%
  • Graduation Rate: 23%
  • Total Enrollment: 11,902
  • Undergrad Students: 8,903
  • Graduate Students: 2,999
  • Diplomas Awarded: 29
  • Grads Salary: $52,200
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Bellevue University
8

Monroe College

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $16,686
    • Out-of-State: $16,686
  • Net Price: $12,054
  • Retention Rate: 80%
  • Graduation Rate: 57%
  • Total Enrollment: 6,541
  • Undergrad Students: 5,739
  • Graduate Students: 802
  • Diplomas Awarded: NA
  • Grads Salary: $36,300
  • Student-to-faculty: 16:1
  • Monroe College
9

Dakota State University

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $9,633
    • Out-of-State: $12,735
  • Net Price: $17,572
  • Retention Rate: 71%
  • Graduation Rate: 47%
  • Total Enrollment: 3,186
  • Undergrad Students: 2,740
  • Graduate Students: 446
  • Diplomas Awarded: NA
  • Grads Salary: $44,000
  • Student-to-faculty: 18:1
  • Dakota State University
10

California Baptist University

  • Tuition
    • In-State: $37,018
    • Out-of-State: $37,018
  • Net Price: $23,494
  • Retention Rate: 79%
  • Graduation Rate: 57%
  • Total Enrollment: 11,489
  • Undergrad Students: 8,252
  • Graduate Students: 3,237
  • Diplomas Awarded: 1
  • Grads Salary: $42,600
  • Student-to-faculty: 19:1
  • California Baptist University
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Certificate Vs. Bachelor’s

While an online or on-campus bachelor’s degree in network administration will help you begin a challenging career, it’s not everything you need. If your degree program offers any certification programs that would apply to your future career, be open to enrolling into those certification programs that would benefit you the most.

The criteria for deciding on “certification or not?” includes:

  • Your intended career path
  • Your level of experience
  • Any specific job role you’d like to get into
  • Which IT area you are most interested in

If you’re still wondering, ask your advisor. They may recommend getting a few certifications before graduation.

What Network Administration Bachelor’s Degrees are Available Online?

  • Bachelor of Science in Network Operations and Security (BS-NOS):
    This degree allows you to learn the material you need to become a network administrator. You’ll also be able to work in the security side of the field. This degree program also makes available 14 industry certifications you may need for your career. These degrees are often available through online programs.
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BSIT):
    This online degree has a specialization in Network Administration, so you’ll be able to learn everything you need to for your degree and pending career through online or in-person courses.
  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Networks (BSCN):
    Learn about all the operations and procedures you’ll use in your daily work. You’ll also learn to use technologies that allow you to design computer networks, implement their operations, administer, and troubleshoot.
  • Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology (BAS-IT):
    You’ll be entering into a field that is in high demand with this degree. You may work with a company that wants to place its networks into cloud services, as is happening with many healthcare facilities. Online courses are commonly available for this degree.
  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technologies (BS-IT):
    You’ll be the specialist to increase the efficiency and performance of the IT systems within your employer’s company. This degree comes with a concentration in Networks and Telecommunications.

Admission Requirements

The admission requirements at some schools may include specific experience categories:

  • Two years of IT experience
  • Minimum of 60 previously earned credits or an associate degree
  • Complete BSIT 200 or BSIT 220, passing with a B or higher
  • Hold current CompTIA or CompTIA Network+ certification

You’ll also need to submit an official high school transcript or GED certificate. If you are transferring from another university, you’ll submit an official transcript from that institution and any others you may have attended. Transcripts must be sealed and sent directly from the institution to be considered official.

How long does it take to earn a Network Administration Bachelor's online?

In an on-campus bachelor degree program, if you take 12 credits each semester, you’ll graduate in a little more than four years. Increasing the number of credits you take per semester to 15 allows you to finish more quickly, usually within the normal four-year time frame.

If you take an online bachelor’s degree program, you may be on a quarterly term schedule, meaning each course finishes within seven to 10 weeks. Try to take your general education courses more quickly by taking two at a time, then take single core courses per ten-week term. By doing so, you’ll graduate within four to five years.

Potential Careers in Network Administration with a Bachelor’s

As you start your college years, you may have some indefinite plans and goals. Once you start taking your classes and finding which core topics you’re most passionate about, you should get an idea of which careers you find the most interesting. Here are some career options for you to consider.

  • Information Systems Manager:
    This career is attainable with a Bachelor of Science in Information Systems. Expect to take part in planning, arranging, and managing IT-related operations. You’ll also collaborate in establishing and executing new goals for your organization, as well as the processes needed to reach these goals.
    Average annual salary: $83,800
  • Network and Computer Systems Administrator:
    If you’re hired in this position, you’ll manage your organization’s computer networks. Because these networks are becoming even more complex, you’ll have to be able to keep up with the technology and work demands. You’ll involve yourself in daily network operations and troubleshoot problems in software and hardware applications.
    Average annual salary: $68,400
  • Computer Systems Analyst:
    This professional helps their employer to establish and implement information systems, undertake the processes involved in integrating both business and technology. You may be involved in the design and creation of documentation connected to specific information systems and any technical equipment the company uses.
    Average annual salary: $69,500
  • Software Developer:
    Professionals in this position are vital in helping to customize applications and systems. They work with system engineers and computer programmers. They may develop or customize existing systems, run tests, and control networks. They test and document software, write code, use source debuggers and write, modify, and debug software for clients’ applications.
    Average annual salary: $71,900
  • Software Engineer:
    The responsibilities of this professional include developing and integrating software systems for their organization. This professional works with programmers to create new user applications. They also evaluate the programs and systems used by their employer. They may help to design and execute workflow processes.
    Average annual salary: $86,600

Options to Advance

If you have been working in network administration after earning your bachelor’s degree, you may have seen some higher-performing roles in your organization. If you want to be able to manage and lead teams, then an online master’s in information technology can help you achieve your goals. In general, your courses will focus on the development of effective and secure systems solutions. You’ll learn how to lead your organization and different teams in managing the company’s information systems and related business outcomes. You’ll help to manage the scope, resources, and scheduling as you deliver quality information systems projects.

Frequently Asked Questions

What specializations are available for a master’s in pharmacy?

Every school that offers master’s degrees can choose their own major titles and specializations to offer, so there may be even more variety out there than we’re able to list here. However, here are some of the options for specialization at the master’s level for pharmacy students.

  • Bio-pharmeceutics
  • Clinical Pharmacy
  • Drug Discovery and Drug Development
  • Drug Regulatory Affairs
  • Medical Chemistry
  • Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
  • Pharmaceutical Administration
  • Pharmaceutical Analysis and Quality Assurance
  • Pharmaceutical Market & Management
  • Pharmaceutical Technology
  • Pharmaceutics
  • Pharmacognosy
  • Pharmacy Practices
  • Phytopharmaceuticals & Natural Products
  • Public Health

What test is required to become a pharmacist?

The test you will need to take is called the North American Pharmacist Licensure Examination (NAPLEX). This exam is meant to be taken by recent pharmacy graduates and will show their knowledge in the field. Though you must receive a score of 75 to pass, the way the test is administered means that there is no minimum number of questions you must answer correctly to pass. And, while the test is notoriously considered to be quite difficult, around 82% of test takers have passed in recent years. So, you really should put the work in and study for the test before you take it, but those who go to the effort to study usually succeed.

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