BS in Biological Sciences / PharmD
A direct path from biology to pharmacy practice
The BS in Biological Sciences and PharmD combined degree at the University at Buffalo offers a structured seven-year pathway for students who know they want to become pharmacists. You’ll complete undergraduate study in biological sciences followed by professional training in pharmacy, earning both degrees in a coordinated program. This pathway builds a strong science foundation while preparing you for patient-centered pharmacy practice.
This combined program is designed for students who value clarity and momentum. Instead of navigating separate degree paths later, you begin with a defined academic plan that leads directly into pharmacy training.
This program is a strong fit if you:
- Know you want to become a pharmacist
- Enjoy applying science to real-world health care settings
- Want a clear academic plan from your first year at UB
- See yourself working directly with patients and health care teams
Students are supported through coordinated advising across biological sciences and pharmacy to help them plan each stage with confidence.
- Structured seven-year pathway from undergraduate study to professional pharmacy training
- Strong preparation in biological sciences and human health
- Clear transition into the Doctor of Pharmacy program
- Integrated advising across undergraduate and professional phases
- Focus on patient care, medication expertise and collaboration within health care teams
Students complete three years of undergraduate study in biological sciences followed by four years in the Doctor of Pharmacy program. Admission to the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences occurs after the second year at UB, following program and school requirements.
Key features include:
- Undergraduate preparation rooted in biological sciences
- A coordinated transition into professional pharmacy education
- Coursework that connects scientific foundations to patient-focused practice
Students should consult advising resources and the official UB Catalog for detailed requirements and timelines.
Applying to the program
Incoming first-year students apply to the combined BS and PharmD pathway through the undergraduate admissions process and declare the combined major early in their first year. Students later apply to the Doctor of Pharmacy program through the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
> Learn more about applying to the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
Throughout the program, students build the knowledge and professional skills needed for pharmacy practice.
By completing this pathway, students will:
- Develop a strong understanding of biological systems and human health
- Apply scientific knowledge in clinical and professional contexts
- Build communication skills for working with patients and health care teams
- Practice ethical and professional behavior in health care settings
Learning progresses intentionally from foundational science to applied pharmacy training.
Graduates of the program earn the Doctor of Pharmacy degree, which prepares them to pursue licensure and practice as pharmacists.
Career settings may include:
- Community and hospital pharmacies
- Clinical and health system roles
- Research, industry and regulatory settings
- Interdisciplinary health care teams
The program emphasizes preparation for patient interaction, professional responsibility and lifelong learning.
If pharmacy is your goal and you want a clear, well-supported route to get there, the BS in Biological Sciences and PharmD pathway at UB offers a focused and purposeful way forward.
