Pharmaceutical Vocational Sciences
The PhD in Pharmaceutical Vocational Sciences (English) at Marmara University is a doctoral-level programme offered under the Institute of Health Sciences, designed to train experts in pharmacy-related sciences, pharmaceutical research, and academic study. The programme covers core and advanced topics such as pharmaceutics, pharmacology, pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmaceutical biotechnology, toxicology, and clinical pharmacy principles — depending on the student's chosen specialisation within the department. The programme accepts qualified master-level graduates and is taught in English, making it accessible to both domestic and international students.
Situated in Istanbul — a major centre for health-sciences education, research institutions, and clinical collaboration — this doctoral programme offers students a rich environment for both theoretical learning and practical or laboratory-based research. Students have opportunities to engage in academic research, collaborate with faculties in pharmacy and medical fields, and benefit from the university’s facilities for pharmaceutical and clinical studies. With its emphasis on combining scientific research, pharmaceutical knowledge, and global academic standards, the programme prepares graduates for careers in academia, research institutions, and the pharmaceutical or healthcare industry.
Key information
Key Facts
- Degree: Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.)
- Standard period of study: 8 semesters (typical structure for 4-year undergraduate background → PhD)
- Location: Istanbul
- Study Type: Doctorate (full-time, research-oriented)
- Admission semester: Fall semester only
- Area of study: Pharmaceutical Sciences, Clinical Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Pharmacology, Biotechnology, Toxicology
- Admission modus: With admission requirement (master’s degree, ALES/foreign language, departmental evaluation)
- Main language: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Advanced Pharmaceutical Chemistry & Biochemistry
- Research Methods & Scientific Writing in Pharmacy
- Basics of Pharmacology and Toxicology
- Seminar: Current Issues in Pharmaceutical Sciences
Semester 2 – Core Pharmaceutical and Clinical Topics
- Pharmaceutics and Drug Formulation Principles
- Pharmacokinetics & Drug Metabolism
- Pharmaceutical Biotechnology / Clinical Pharmacy Fundamentals
- Seminar: Ethics, Regulation, and Quality in Pharmacy
Semester 3 – Specialization & Research Development
- Selected Topics (e.g. Toxicology, Advanced Pharmacology, Drug Delivery Systems)
- Experimental or Theoretical Research Design
- Academic Writing & Publication Skills
- Research Project I (supervised study)
Semester 4 – Doctoral Qualification Phase
- Written Qualification Exam
- Oral Qualification Exam
- Thesis Proposal Development
- Research Colloquium / Seminar Series
Semester 5 – Doctoral Research I
- Independent Thesis Research (Laboratory work or Clinical/Pharmaceutical Data Analysis)
- Data Collection or Experimental Studies
- Doctoral Seminar I
- Progress Review with Advisor
Semester 6 – Doctoral Research II
- Thesis Writing (Intermediate Stage)
- Doctoral Seminar II
- Conference or Workshop Participation
- Research Article Preparation
Semester 7 – Thesis Development & Review
- Advanced Thesis Writing
- Advisory Committee Review & Feedback
- Pre-Defense Preparation
- Academic Presentation / Publication Activities
Semester 8 – Thesis Completion & Defense
- Final Thesis Submission
- Oral Defense Examination
- Publication & Research Dissemination
- Completion of PhD Degree Requirements
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this programme are prepared for academic careers as researchers or faculty members in pharmacy schools, universities, or research institutes. They may also work in pharmaceutical industry R&D, drug development, regulatory affairs, clinical research, quality control laboratories, or pharmaceutical companies. With advanced training in pharmaceutical sciences, they can contribute to drug development, clinical studies, public health research, regulatory compliance, or pharmaceutical innovation. Their combination of scientific, clinical, and research skills makes them suitable for roles requiring deep knowledge of drugs, therapy, safety, and regulations.
Why Choose This Program
Choosing this PhD in Pharmaceutical Vocational Sciences means joining a programme that bridges science, pharmacy, and clinical relevance, giving students the opportunity to engage in advanced research with practical and global applications. Students benefit from experienced faculty, access to laboratory and clinical-research resources, and a curriculum that supports both theoretical understanding and applied research. The programme helps build strong analytical and research skills necessary for pharmaceutical innovation, drug safety studies, or clinical research. Additionally, its English-medium structure enables international collaboration, exchange opportunities, and access to global academic networks.
Moreover, the programme’s broad scope — from pharmaceutics to pharmacology, biotechnology, toxicology, and clinical pharmacy — offers flexibility for students to choose a specialisation aligned with their research interests or career goals. Participation in seminars, workshops, and inter-departmental collaborations fosters interdisciplinary thinking and professional growth. This comprehensive training positions graduates for impactful roles in academia, healthcare, pharmaceutical industry, or public health organisations worldwide.
Contact Information
Marmara University – Student Advisory Service
Göztepe Campus
34722 Kadıköy, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 216 348 02 92
Fax: +90 216 348 13 69
Email: info@marmara.edu.tr
Institute of Health Sciences – Programme Contact (PhD Pharmaceutical Vocational Sciences)
Faculty of Pharmacy, Marmara University
Göztepe Campus, Kadıköy, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 216 348 02 92
Email: pharmpvoc_phd@marmara.edu.tr
International Office – Marmara University
Göztepe Campus
34722 Kadıköy, Istanbul, Turkey
Tel: +90 216 777 17 00
Fax: +90 216 777 17 99
Email: international@marmara.edu.tr
