To apply to the DRSc program, you must:
- Have completed a bachelor’s degree with a minimum grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 from an accredited college or university.*
- Submit three letters of recommendation from professionals or professors familiar with your capabilities and achievements.
- Submit a copy of your most up-to-date resume or CV.
- Submit a Statement of Purpose that addresses your interest in the degree and possible areas for your doctoral research. (450-500 words) Your essay should be uploaded in the supporting documents section.
- Submit a Critical Analysis Essay of a DRSc alumni dissertation using the following criteria:
- Identify and explain the argument that the author is making
- Provide your own argument, defend or counter, about argument made in the dissertation
- Provide 3-5 additional references that are not included in the original work
- 800 – 1000 words
Strong candidates are full-time working professionals with 10 to 15 years of experience in the regulated product industry with several years of experience managing or directing regulatory or quality departments.
If you have any questions about your specific situation, please feel free to contact us at regsci@usc.edu.
Application Deadlines
The Department’s Admissions Committee will review all applications at the same time, regardless of when it was received. Applications are accepted every two years starting in August of an odd year with a priority deadline of February 1 and final deadline of March 1 of an even year. The 2024 cohort application will open in August of 2023 and will close on March 1, 2024.
Application Procedures
You may apply online through the USC Graduate Admissions website. You will find the “Doctor of Regulatory Science (DRSc)” program after selecting the “USC School of Pharmacy”. Please arrange to have transcripts and test scores sent to USC in time to meet the February 1st deadline.
After an initial review by the admission committee, select applicants will be invited to Los Angeles to visit our campus for three interviews, at minimum. At least one interview will be conducted by an alumni or student in the DRSc program. Final admission decisions are typically made by the end of June.
In rare cases, applicants may be contacted for a brief screening via Zoom as part of the initial review process.
Materials to be submitted
- Official transcripts from all colleges you have attended, sent to the USC Office of Admission, as directed in the online application process, to the following address:
University of Southern California
Office of Admission and Financial Aid
3601 South Flower Street, Room 112
Los Angeles, CA 90089-0911
- Three letters of recommendation from professors or professionals familiar with your capabilities and achievements, utilizing the process provided called “Evaluations” in the online application. It includes a form to be completed as well as uploading a personalized letter.
- Your personal statement that addresses your interest in the degree and possible areas for your doctoral research should be uploaded in the “Documents” section under “Program Materials”
- Your resume should be uploaded in the “Documents” section under “Supporting Information”