Certificate in Drug Discovery and Development

Drexel University’s online Certificate in Drug Discovery and Development program is designed to provide in-depth exposure to the complex elements involved in drug discovery and development and help you establish and maintain an enduring and productive career within the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry. Two required courses cover multiple aspects of the drug discovery and development process, ranging from the identification and validation of drug targets through to regulatory approval and commercialization of the product. You can then customize your curriculum by selecting from an extensive list of elective courses that provide more specialized training in different disciplines like biomedical science, regulatory affairs, clinical research, product development, or pharmaceutical management. 

The online Certificate in Drug Discovery and Development is available to those who have already obtained a BS or BA degree in the biomedical, chemical, or health-related fields and seek industry-focused training. This includes professionals who want to:

• Broaden their base of information about drug discovery and development
• Transition into the industry
• Increase their opportunities for career advancement

All credits earned for the Certificate in Drug Discovery and Development may be applied to the MS in Drug Discovery and Development program.

Upon graduation, you will be able to:

• Understand the fundamental scientific principles that guide the development of novel therapeutics
• Recognize and evaluate the contributions of representatives from different disciplines, organizations, and agencies involved in advancing a candidate molecule from the laboratory to the market
• Evaluate the properties of a candidate molecule, assess its therapeutic potential, identify key strengths and weaknesses, and recommend remedies to overcome limitations
• Exhibit sound ethical principles and work independently or in diverse groups
• Synthesize information from multiple and diverse sources to identify the most fruitful plan of action
• Communicate technical information clearly and effectively—in both written and oral form—to scientific and non-scientific audiences

Drexel's 10,000 Hours Podcast: I Want a New Drug

There seems to be a million kinds of medicine in your local pharmacy. But what does it take to get a drug to market? Drexel professor Richard Mangano explains the drug discovery and development process, and why some drugs get funded – and some don’t.

For questions, please contact:

Dr. Paul McGonigle
Professor and Director
215.762.8408
pm455@drexel.edu

Dr. Joanne Mathiasen
Professor and Co-Director
215.762.8578
jrm398@drexel.edu

Related Programs

• MS in Drug Discovery and Development

State restrictions may apply to some programs.