Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and Life Sciences

Students who begin the first year of the Doctor of Pharmacy—Direct Entry program in the fall of 2023 and beyond will be conferred a Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and Life Sciences. This is a STEM-designated degree that is built into the program. It commemorates how, through the curriculum, students are well-prepared for careers in both pharmacy and the life sciences industry.

The Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and Life Sciences is awarded to students who enter the six-year Doctor of Pharmacy—Direct Entry program in the first year. The Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and Life Sciences is awarded after successful completion of the fourth year of the program. The Doctor of Pharmacy is awarded after successful completion of the sixth year.

Certain STEM degrees are designated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security as eligible for the 24-month STEM Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension. The Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy and Life Sciences has been designated for the 24-month STEM OPT extension. Eligible F-1 students can apply for STEM OPT with USCIS following the 12-month Post-Completion OPT. This allows for a total of 36 months of employment authorization.

The Office of Immigration and International Support Services at MCPHS supports and advises the F-1 student community both during their studies and periods of employment authorization.