Master of Pharmaceutical Science (Monash Malaysia)

KPT/JPT (N/0916/7/0006) 04/29 - MQA/PSA17576

Brought to you by the world #2 for Pharmacy and Pharmacology*.

The Master of Pharmaceutical Science equips you with the contemporary skills and knowledge necessary for a rewarding career in the pharmaceutical and allied industries.

The course examines the fundamentals of drug discovery and development, using case studies and hypotheticals to highlight and address critical issues and challenges in these processes. You’ll gain hands-on experience in various analytical, formulation, modelling and research techniques, with all of your learning unpinned by the guiding principles of sustainability, social responsibility and positive impact. The course culminates in an extended professional placement.

Whether you’re from an allied field looking for new opportunities in pharmaceutical science, or an industry professional wanting to develop more specialised skills for an enhanced competitive edge, this master’s degree will open doors for you.

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*QS World University Rankings by Subject 2026

Course map

Handbook

Course guide

At a glance

Course structure

Why Monash?

Career paths

Entry requirements

Duration

1-2 years (full-time)

Type

Coursework

Intake

February (Levels 1 and 3) and July (Level 2)

Fees

In 2027, the annual tuition fees for this course are:

• RM49,920 for Malaysian students
• RM57,600 for international students.

General fees:

• Application (once only) - RM100
• Registration (once only) - RM200
• General amenities (per semester) - RM100
• International student pass application - Click here.

Part A: Foundations of pharmaceutical science These advanced preparatory studies will equip you with the knowledge and skills base necessary for advanced studies in pharmaceutical science.

Part B: Case studies in pharmaceutical science You’ll be introduced to advanced principles of pharmaceutical science through a range of knowledge and laboratory-based case studies and scenarios.

Part C: Advanced pharmaceutical science You’ll develop your understanding of state-of-the-art and emerging technologies in pharmaceutical sciences, and integrate this with career skills for a professional placement.

Part D: Placement and capstone You’ll undertake a professional placement in the pharmaceutical or related industries or in a research laboratory, which gives you the opportunity to apply your knowledge and skills to solve contemporary problems in a workplace setting. This placement is integrated with a capstone unit where you will consolidate and demonstrate your learning in a professional environment.

More information The Monash University Handbook has detailed information about the course structure and requirements.

View the course map here.

Designed for relevance Our curriculum mirrors that at our Australia campus but is customised to address local and regional pharmaceutical industry needs. You’ll gain an internationally-valued education with strong regional relevance, priming you for success worldwide and locally.

Hands-on learning Master specialised expertise and industry-relevant skills through practical experiences such as industry relevant case studies and selected laboratory experiences.

Benefit from expert supervision Our cohort of research-active academic staff brings a wealth of insight and experience from industry and professional practice. You’ll receive consistently excellent teaching and guidance for the best learning outcomes.

Professional placement Go on industry or research placements and gain valuable real-world experience, enhancing your employability.

Enter an allied field Are you a science graduate looking to transition into the pharmaceutical industry? This course includes preparatory units that will give you the knowledge and skills required to complete your studies.

Credit exemption If you have a pharmaceutical science qualification, you may be exempted from selected units and graduate in 1-1.5 years of full-time study.

Here are some common graduate destinations:

• pharmaceutical or biomedical scientist
• product developer or formulator in pharmaceutical and allied industries such as the cosmetic, personal care, food and beverage, coatings and paints sectors
• research associate/scientist.

You’ll also be qualified for various roles in pharmaceutical and allied industries companies, including:

• analytical development specialist/scientist
• bioassay development specialist/scientist
• manufacturing/production executive/engineer/biotechnologist
• medicinal/ pharmaceutical chemist
• pharmaceutical and medical science liaison specialist
• pharmaceutical/product application specialist
• pharmacovigilance specialist/scientist
• preclinical and translational pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics specialist/scientist
• process development/MS&T engineer
• quality assurance specialist/scientist
• quality control specialist/scientist
• regulatory affairs specialist/scientist.

To enter Monash University, you must satisfy particular academic, English language and age requirements.

Depending on prior qualifications, you may receive entry-level credit (a form of block credit) which determines your point of entry the Master of Pharmaceutical Science:

Entry Level 1 (96 points to complete, 2 years full-time)

• This entry point is available in semester one (February) only.
• An Australian bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in pharmacy or science or biomedical science or engineering (in an appropriate discipline e.g. pharmaceutical, chemical, biomedical or materials) with at least a credit (60%) average.

Entry Level 2 (72 points to complete, 1.5 years full-time)

• This entry point is available in semester two (July) only.
• An Australian bachelor's degree (or equivalent) in pharmaceutical science with at least a credit (60%) average.

Entry Level 3 (48 points to complete, 1 year full-time)

• This entry point is available in semester one (February) only.
• An Australian bachelor honours degree (or equivalent) in pharmaceutical science with at least a distinction (70%) average OR
• An Australian bachelor honours double degree (or equivalent) in engineering and pharmaceutical science with at least a distinction (70%) average.

Related courses

• Master of Philosophy
• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Get in touch

For more information about this degree, including how to apply, contact us.