Top Universities in Pharmacology (US)

The 2007 NRC (National Research Council) rankings for pharmacology doctoral programs in the United States showcased some of the most prestigious universities in the field, emphasizing their strong research capabilities and contributions to advancements in medical and pharmaceutical sciences. At the top of the list was Yale University, earning a distinguished score of 4.45, reflecting its status as a leader in pharmacological research and education. Yale’s position is attributed to its comprehensive research programs, distinguished faculty, and the high quality of education it offers to doctoral candidates in pharmacology. The university’s reputation for pioneering research and its influence on the field have made it a premier destination for students seeking to make significant contributions to the field of pharmacology.

Following Yale, the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center ranked second with a score of 4.39. Texas Southwestern’s strong emphasis on biomedical research and its well-established network of healthcare institutions and clinical trials have made it a powerhouse in pharmacology education. This university is known for its cutting-edge research that focuses on drug development, disease mechanisms, and innovative treatment strategies. The rigorous training and collaborative research opportunities available at Texas Southwestern make it an ideal place for aspiring pharmacologists to develop their expertise. The University of California, San Diego (UCSD) secured the third position, scoring 4.36. UCSD’s pharmacology program has gained recognition for its significant contributions to the study of molecular and cellular mechanisms of drug action. The university’s close ties with medical and biotech industries in California have facilitated a rich learning environment where students engage in translational research that bridges the gap between laboratory findings and clinical application. This synergy has propelled UCSD to the forefront of pharmacological research and education.

Johns Hopkins University, with a score of 4.21, ranked fourth in the NRC's pharmacology program evaluation. Renowned for its world-class faculty and research facilities, Johns Hopkins has long been a leader in the medical and scientific community. The university’s pharmacology program is well-respected for its focus on drug discovery, pharmacokinetics, and the development of therapeutics. The collaborative research culture at Johns Hopkins fosters innovation, with graduate students contributing to research that has tangible implications for public health.

Duke University, scoring 4.18, held the fifth position, demonstrating its strong commitment to academic excellence and pioneering research in the pharmacological sciences. Duke’s program is known for its integrative approach to training, combining basic science with clinical applications. This approach ensures that students develop a well-rounded understanding of how pharmacological knowledge can be translated into practical medical treatments.

Vanderbilt University, ranked sixth with a score of 4.17, has established itself as a leader in the study of pharmacology, emphasizing areas such as drug discovery and the molecular basis of drug action. Vanderbilt’s research centers provide an excellent environment for collaborative, interdisciplinary work, enhancing the learning experience for doctoral students and contributing to the university’s prominent status in the field.

Harvard University, with a score of 4.14, secured the seventh spot on the list. Harvard’s pharmacology program is part of its prestigious medical school and offers access to vast resources and a network of distinguished researchers. The university’s focus on the biomedical aspects of pharmacology and its leadership in advancing therapeutic science have made it a prime destination for graduate students interested in exploring new frontiers in pharmacological research.

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill ranked eighth with a score of 4.03. Known for its research-driven approach and commitment to improving healthcare outcomes, UNC’s pharmacology program supports a range of studies that include drug development, cancer research, and public health initiatives. The university's collaborative research projects involving various disciplines have positioned it as a center of excellence in the field.

The University of Washington and the University of Pennsylvania (Penn) tied for the tenth position, each scoring 4.02. Both universities are recognized for their strong pharmacology programs that integrate advanced research opportunities with comprehensive educational experiences. The University of Washington stands out for its research on drug interactions and therapies, while Penn is known for its focus on pharmacological research that translates to clinical practice. Their shared commitment to advancing the field of pharmacology ensures that students are prepared to tackle real-world challenges and contribute meaningfully to scientific and medical communities.

NRC Rankings in Pharmacology Doctoral Programs
- Top 100 US Universities for Pharmacology:

1 Yale 4.45
2 Texas Southwestern Med Ctr 4.39
3 Cal San Diego 4.36
4 Johns Hopkins 4.21
5 Duke 4.18
6 Vanderbilt 4.17
7 Harvard 4.14
8 North Carolina 4.03
9 Washington 4.02
10 Penn 4.02
11 MIT 3.90
12 Wisconsin 3.89
13 Michigan 3.85
14 NYU 3.84
15 Emory 3.83
16 Stanford 3.81
17 Colorado 3.81
18 Rochester 3.79
19 Iowa 3.79
20 Minnesota 3.76
21 Arizona 3.71
22 Kansas 3.70
23 Virginia 3.65
24 Columbia 3.65
25 Chicago 3.64
26 SUNY Stony Brook 3.62
27 Texas 3.61
28 Albert Einstein College of Med 3.59
29 Kentucky 3.56
30 North Carolina State 3.53
31 Mayo Graduate School 3.53
32 Georgetown 3.52
33 Cal Davis 3.51
34 Michigan State 3.50
35 Rutgers 3.49
36 Texas Health Sci Ctr Houston 3.47
37 Miami 3.42
38 Medical Univ South Carolina 3.41
39 UCLA 3.40
40 Utah 3.37
41 SUNY Health Brooklyn 3.36
42 Pittsburgh 3.36
43 Oregon State 3.36
44 Baylor College of Medicine 3.36
45 Cincinnati 3.34
46 Saint Louis 3.33
47 Cornell 3.33
48 West Virginia 3.32
49 Florida 3.32
50 Thomas Jefferson 3.30
51 Ohio State 3.26
52 Medical College of Wisconsin 3.26
53 Tennessee Memphis 3.25
54 Dartmouth College 3.24
55 Wake Forest 3.20
56 Utah State 3.18
57 Illinois Chicago 3.18
58 Vermont 3.17
59 Brown 3.17
60 Washington State 3.16
61 Texas A&M 3.16
62 Texas Medical Galveston 3.12
63 Maryland Baltimore 3.12
64 Louisville 3.10
65 Medical College of Georgia 3.09
66 Uniformed Services U of Hlth Sci 3.08
67 Temple 3.08
68 Texas Health Sci Ct San Antonio 3.07
69 Wayne State 3.06
70 Tufts 3.06
71 Connecticut 3.06
72 Penn State 3.05
73 Cal Irvine 3.04
74 Albany Medical College 3.04
75 Alabama Birmingham 3.04
76 SUNY Buffalo 3.03
77 George Washington 3.03
78 Tulane 3.02
79 SUNY Health Syracuse 3.00
80 Massachusetts Medical 3.00
81 Iowa State 3.00
82 Medical College of Pensylvania 2.97
83 Case Western 2.94
84 Georgia 2.92
85 New York Medical 2.91
86 Purdue 2.89
87 SUNY Albany 2.87
88 Loyola Chicago 2.85
89 New Jersey Medical 2.79
90 Oklahoma 2.76
91 LSU Medical 2.76
92 South Carolina 2.75
93 LSU 2.75
94 Mississippi Medical 2.68
95 East Carolina Medicine 2.58
96 Missouri 2.57
97 Northeast Louisiana 2.55
98 South Florida 2.50
99 Medical College of Ohio 2.48
100 Mississippi 2.47

Source: National Research Council (2007)