Pharmacology and Toxicology

The Pharmacology and Toxicology program at the University of Texas at Austin provides students with a comprehensive education in the mechanisms of drug action, the effects of chemicals on biological systems, and the principles of toxicology. This interdisciplinary program combines coursework in biology, chemistry, physiology, and medicine to prepare students for careers in research, healthcare, pharmaceutical development, regulatory affairs, and environmental health. Students gain a deep understanding of how drugs interact with the body at the molecular, cellular, and systemic levels, as well as the methods used to assess toxicity and safety of chemicals. The curriculum includes core courses in pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, neuropharmacology, and toxicological assessment, complemented by laboratory experiences and research projects that foster practical skills and critical thinking. Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities and work closely with faculty who are leading experts in their fields, engaging in research that advances knowledge in areas such as drug development, neuropharmacology, cancer pharmacology, and environmental toxicology. The program aims to prepare graduates for advanced study or immediate entry into professional careers in academia, industry, or government agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration or Environmental Protection Agency. Emphasis is placed on ethical considerations, regulatory frameworks, and the societal impact of pharmacological and toxicological research. Graduates of the program are equipped with the scientific expertise and analytical skills needed to address complex health and safety challenges related to pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and biologics, making a meaningful contribution to public health and scientific innovation. The Pharmacology and Toxicology program at UT Austin is committed to fostering an inclusive environment that promotes diversity in science and supports the professional growth of all students.

YEAR 1

FALL

• PGS 196S Division seminar
• PGS 189Q Seminar in Alcohol (Neuropharmacology Track) or PGS 196T Toxicology Seminar (Toxicology Track)
• Basic Science Elective I (Both Tracks) or PGS 384K Fundamentals in Toxicology (Toxicology Track)
• PGS 196H Lab research or rotation

SPRING

• PGS 386D Cellular & Systems Physiology II
• PHR 388K Basic Principles in Experimental Design & Statistics
• PHR 191Q Pharmacy and its Disciplines
• PGS 196S Division seminar
• PGS 189Q Seminar in Alcohol (Neuropharmacology Track) or PGS 196T Toxicology Seminar (Toxicology Track)
• Basic Science Elective II (Both Tracks) or PGS 384L Biochemical and Molecular Tox (Toxicology Track)
• PGS 196H Lab research or rotation
• * Milestone: Select supervising professor by end of spring semester

SUMMER
PGS 487Q Communication Skills for Scientists
PGS 196H Lab Research

YEAR 2

FALL 

• PGS 380F Biomedical Pharmacology I
• PGS 383D Neuropharmacology (Neuropharmacology Track) or PGS 384K Fundamental Toxicology or Elective I (Toxicology Track)
• PGS 185D Responsible Conduct of Research
• PGS 185G Grant Writing
• PGS 196S Division Seminar
• PGS 189Q Seminar in Alcohol (Neuropharmacology Track) or PGS 196T Toxicology Seminar (Toxicology Track)
• Lab research

SPRING

• PGS 380G Biomedical Pharmacology II
• PGS 388K Pharmacol Mech Addiction (Neuropharmacology Track) or PGS 384L Biochemical and Molecular Tox or Elective II
• PGS 196S Division Seminar Participation
• PGS 189Q Seminar in Alcohol (Neuropharmacology Track) or PGS 196T Toxicology Seminar (Toxicology Track)
• PGS 196H Lab Research
• * Milestone: Student works on draft of NIH-style proposal (NRSA) in preparation for qualifying examination

SUMMER 

• PGS 196H Lab Research
• * Milestones: Prepare and write Qualifying exam

YEAR 3 (and subsequent long semesters)

FALL

• * Milestone: Qualifying Exam (first week of September)
• PGS 196S Division seminar
• PGS 189Q Seminar in Alcohol (Neuropharmacology Track) or PGS 196T Toxicology Seminar (Toxicology Track)
• PGS 196H Lab Research

SPRING

• PGS 196S Division Seminar
• PGS 189Q Seminar in Alcohol (Neuropharmacology Track) or PGS 196T Toxicology Seminar (Toxicology Track)
• PGS 196H Lab research
• * Milestones: Qualifying examination; enter candidacy

Requirements

• Application for Admission 
• Official GRE scores 
• Resume and/or Curriculum Vitae
• Letters of Recommendation from three individuals
• The application fee is $65 for U.S. applicants and $90 for International applicants
• Official Transcripts. Include transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended. You will uploadyour transcript as a PDF after you submitted your application and paid the applicationfee. Upload your transcript(s) on the Status Check page. 
• Official TOEFL Scores
• Financial Responsibility Form 

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

Scholarships

• B. Berard Matthews Scholarship
• American Pharmacies Fellowship in Independent Pharmacy Management
• Max and Mary Anne Burlage Fellowship
• Jaime N. Delgado Endowed Presidential Scholarship in Pharmacy
• Johnson & Johnson Endowed Graduate Fellowship in Pharmacy

The University of Texas at Austin offers a comprehensive and rigorous program in Pharmacology and Toxicology designed to prepare students for careers in medical research, pharmaceuticals, academia, and regulatory agencies. The program emphasizes the understanding of drug actions, mechanisms of toxicity, and the development of new therapeutic agents. Students are provided with a solid foundation in biochemistry, physiology, and molecular biology, alongside specialized coursework in pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, toxicokinetics, and systems pharmacology. The curriculum integrates both classroom instruction and hands-on laboratory research, allowing students to develop practical skills in experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.

Graduate students have opportunities to participate in cutting-edge research projects under the guidance of experienced faculty members renowned for their contributions to pharmacology and toxicology. The program fosters an interdisciplinary approach, encouraging collaboration across various scientific disciplines such as neuroscience, chemistry, and environmental sciences. Students may also engage in internships and collaborative research initiatives with governmental agencies like the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), providing real-world experience and professional networking opportunities.

The university’s state-of-the-art laboratories and research facilities support advanced studies in drug development, toxicology screening, and pharmacogenomics. The program is tailored to equip students with the analytical and critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate drug safety, efficacy, and risk assessments. Graduates from the program often continue their careers in pharmaceutical companies, pursue postdoctoral research, or continue into academic positions as professors and researchers. The university's strong emphasis on scientific innovation and research excellence makes the Pharmacology and Toxicology program at UT Austin a leading choice for students aiming to contribute to improving human health and safety through science.