MBS Business and Science in Drug Discovery and Development

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

Rutgers University Newark

Program Overview

The Master of Business and Science in Drug Discovery and Development at Rutgers University is an interdisciplinary graduate programme designed for students who want to build careers in pharmaceutical research, drug development, biotechnology, and clinical research. The programme combines scientific training in drug discovery, preclinical development, clinical trials, and regulatory affairs with business knowledge in finance, intellectual property, marketing, leadership, and entrepreneurship, preparing graduates to contribute to pharmaceutical innovation and the commercialisation of new medicines.

Curriculum Structure

The programme requires a minimum of 43 credits, including 24 science credits and 19 business credits. Students complete two required science courses and select additional science and business electives to develop expertise in pharmaceutical research, drug development, clinical studies, and business management.

First Year

During the first year, students develop a foundation in pharmaceutical science, drug discovery, and business management. The required course Drug Development: From Concept to Market introduces the stages involved in transforming a research concept into a marketed pharmaceutical product, including the development of small-molecule and biological medicines. Students also study Drug Discovery Through Preclinical Development, exploring target identification, therapeutic research, and the process of advancing potential drug candidates towards clinical investigation. Alongside these subjects, business courses such as Ethics in Science and Technology Management, Principles of Communication and Leadership, and Principles of Accounting and Finance for Science and Technology Management strengthen professional and managerial capabilities.

Second Year

The second year allows students to deepen their knowledge through specialised electives in clinical research, biotechnology, regulatory affairs, and pharmaceutical management. Courses such as Practical Aspects of Clinical Trial Design, Statistics in Clinical and Translational Research, and Fundamentals of Regulatory Affairs develop an understanding of clinical study planning, research data analysis, and pharmaceutical regulations. Students can also explore Fundamentals of Biological Chemistry in the Biotech Industry, Concepts in Biotechnology and Genomics, and NextGen Biotechnology and Genomics, gaining further insight into biological processes and emerging pharmaceutical technologies. The programme's business component culminates in the Science and Technology Management Capstone, where students apply their scientific and managerial knowledge to practical industry challenges.

Focus Areas

Drug Discovery, Pharmaceutical Development, Preclinical Research, Clinical Trial Management, Clinical Research, Pharmaceutical Biotechnology, Regulatory Affairs, Drug Commercialisation, Intellectual Property Management, Biological Chemistry, Genomics, Translational Research, Pharmaceutical Marketing, Clinical Data Analysis, Drug Safety and Toxicology, Pharmaceutical Finance, Science and Technology Management.

Learning Outcomes

Graduates develop the ability to understand the complete drug discovery and development process, evaluate potential drug candidates, analyse preclinical research findings, understand clinical trial design and management, apply pharmaceutical regulatory principles, interpret scientific and clinical research data, assess drug commercialisation strategies, understand intellectual property protection, communicate scientific findings effectively, and apply business and leadership skills within pharmaceutical and biotechnology organisations.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

The programme combines advanced pharmaceutical science education with professional business training through Rutgers' Master of Business and Science degree. Its curriculum covers industry-relevant areas such as drug development, clinical research, regulatory affairs, intellectual property, pharmaceutical marketing, ethics, and management. Rutgers does not specify a separate professional or industry accreditation for the Drug Discovery and Development concentration on its official programme page.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

The programme provides opportunities to interact with pharmaceutical industry experts, participate in collaborative projects, attend professional networking events, and receive mentorship from academic and industry professionals. Rutgers identifies companies such as Bayer, Merck & Co., Eli Lilly, and Bristol Myers Squibb among the organisations where its Drug Discovery and Development alumni have worked.

Potential career opportunities include Senior Global Trial Manager, Preclinical and Nonclinical Study Manager, Biomarker Operations Lead, Human Subjects Protection Analyst, Clinical Research Manager, Pharmaceutical Project Manager, Regulatory Affairs Specialist, Drug Development Scientist, Clinical Trial Coordinator, and Pharmaceutical Product Development Manager.

The university does not publish a separate employability ranking specifically for the MBS in Drug Discovery and Development.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At Rutgers University Newark, the MBS in Business and Science in Drug Discovery and Development program is designed to provide students with hands-on experience that is crucial for success in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. Students engage in practical learning through state-of-the-art facilities, cutting-edge tools, and collaborative projects that mirror real-world scenarios. This program emphasizes experiential learning, ensuring that you not only gain theoretical knowledge but also develop the practical skills necessary to thrive in your career.

Here’s how you can expect to gain valuable experience during your studies:

- Laboratories: Access to advanced laboratories equipped for drug discovery and development research, allowing you to conduct experiments and gain practical lab skills.
- Internships: Opportunities for internships with leading pharmaceutical companies and biotech firms, providing real-world experience and networking opportunities.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects that simulate industry challenges, fostering teamwork and problem-solving skills essential for your future career.
- Digital Tools: Training in industry-standard software and tools used in drug development, including data analysis and project management software.
- Field Trips: Visits to pharmaceutical companies and research institutions, giving you insights into the industry and exposure to potential employers.
- Research Institutes: Collaboration with research institutes affiliated with Rutgers, enhancing your learning experience and expanding your professional network.
- Libraries and Resources: Access to extensive library resources and databases that support your research and learning needs.

These experiential learning opportunities are designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge that employers are looking for in the competitive field of drug discovery and development.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MBS in Business and Science in Drug Discovery and Development at Rutgers University Newark prepares graduates for a dynamic career in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. With a strong foundation in both business and scientific principles, students can pursue roles such as Clinical Research Associate, Regulatory Affairs Specialist, and Pharmaceutical Sales Representative. This program equips you with the skills and knowledge necessary to thrive in a rapidly evolving field:

- University Services: Rutgers offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals. The Office of Career Development also provides access to job postings and internship opportunities tailored to your field.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: Graduates of this program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for roles in drug discovery and development can range from $60,000 to $80,000, depending on the specific position and location.

- University–Industry Partnerships: Rutgers has established partnerships with leading pharmaceutical companies and research institutions, providing students with valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience. Collaborations with organizations like Johnson & Johnson and Merck enhance the learning experience and facilitate job placements.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The MBS program is accredited and recognized by industry leaders, ensuring that your degree holds significant value in the job market. This accreditation reflects the program's commitment to maintaining high educational standards.

- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to successful careers in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and healthcare consulting, demonstrating the versatility and demand for graduates in this field.

Further Academic Progression: After completing the MBS in Business and Science in Drug Discovery and Development, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Ph.D. in Pharmaceutical Sciences or an MBA with a focus on healthcare management. These advanced degrees can open doors to leadership roles in research, policy-making, or academia, allowing you to make a significant impact in the field of drug discovery and development.