Dec 06, 2025  
2025-2026 University Catalog 
    
2025-2026 University Catalog

Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacy, PHD

Location(s): West Lafayette


About the Program


The Department of Medicinal Chemistry and Molecular Pharmacology (MCMP) in the College of Pharmacy at Purdue University is one of the top-rated programs in the country, combining both medicinal chemistry and molecular pharmacology integrated within a single academic unit. This arrangement promotes a seamless dialogue between chemical and biological approaches, which is essential for translating basic discoveries into novel therapeutics. 

The scientific approaches taken by students and faculty in MCMP include medicinal chemistry and chemical biology, cell and molecular biology, molecular pharmacology, biophysical and computational chemistry, systems biology, functional and pharmacogenomics. Research topics covered in MCMP can be broadly grouped in three general areas: cancer biology, neuroscience, and infectious diseases. The Department is fully committed to excellence and innovation in the education of future pharmacists and in training the next generation of pharmaceutical scientists. The Department strives to provide an inclusive and supportive environment, filled with energetic students, fellows, faculty, and staff. 

Program Website

Program Requirements


90 Credits Required

(30 credits from a Master’s may be applied.)

Required Courses (18 credits)


Biochemistry and Chemistry Courses (0-9 credits)


Biochemistry: all students must demonstrate proficiency in Biochemistry. Students who have had prior courses in Biochemistry should take the Biochemistry Proficiency Examination upon arrival. Those students whose scores indicate that they need further work in Biochemistry or those who have not taken a previous Biochemistry course must enroll in and pass with a grade of B or better 6 credit hours of approved Biochemistry coursework. Acceptable courses listed below. Other Biochemistry courses can be approved by the graduate advisory committee.

Organic Chemistry: All students will take the Organic Chemistry Proficiency Examination upon arrival. Students whose scores indicate that they would benefit by additional exposure to Organic Chemistry may be advised to to take CHEM 65100 (listed below) for credit.

Core Courses (8 credits)


Dissertation Research (xx credits)


Concentrations


Interdisciplinary concentrations:

GPA Requirements


Graduate students in MCMP are required to maintain a “B” average in all courses taken for a grade. A student whose cumulative grade-point average (GPA) drops below 3.0 (out of 4.0) will be placed on probation and must achieve a “B” average in the subsequent semester. To be released from probation the student must restore their cumulative GPA to 3.0 or better within one year. Any student who fails to meet the GPA requirement will be reviewed by the Graduate Advisory Committee and may be dropped from the program.

Graduate Programs Disclaimer


  • The student is ultimately responsible for knowing and completing all degree requirements. Students should consult with their advisor/department for more information.
  • Not all graduate programs may be actively recruiting students and course modality availability may vary. 
  • Please refer to the Explore Graduate Programs website for a list of currently available graduate programs.
  • Transfer credit policy: Credits earned for graduate study at other universities (both domestic and international) may be applied toward an advanced degree. Only credit hours associated with graduate courses for which grades of B- or better were obtained will be eligible for transfer. Any additional conditions under which credit transfers may be made are determined by the various departments.
  • Comparative information about Purdue University and other U.S. educational institutions is also available through the College Navigator tool, provided by the National Center for Education Statistics, and through the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard.