Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology

Scientific Knowledge & Understanding:

• • Explain the molecular mechanisms, biological processes, and chemical interactions that affect toxic targets at the cellular and organ levels.
  • Describe the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of various drug classes, including their effects on the autonomic nervous, cardiovascular, and central nervous systems.
  • Identify the fundamental principles of toxicology and their practical applications to human health and environmental safety.
  • Understand the legal, safety, and ethical standards required for experimental procedures, particularly in animal models.

Intellectual & Cognitive Skills:

• • Critically analyze, interpret, and critique research articles and scientific data within the field of pharmacology and toxicology.
  • Develop independent research and critical thinking skills to evaluate complex toxicological and pharmacological problems.
  • Design and execute comprehensive research protocols, from initial problem recognition to the final evaluation of findings.

Professional & Practical Skills:

• • Master advanced laboratory techniques and methodologies, including the safe use of specialized instrumentation and adherence to disposal regulations.
  • Perform experimental pharmacology tasks, such as using animal models to study drug effects and conducting toxicological assessments.
  • Diagnose and propose treatment plans for clinical poisoning cases using current scientific literature and laboratory data.

General & Communication Skills:

• • Effectively communicate original scientific data and findings through both oral and written presentations to healthcare professionals and the public.
  • Utilize information technology and statistical tools effectively for data analysis and professional practice development.
  • Work collaboratively as an effective leader and team member in multi-disciplinary healthcare or research settings. 

• Degree: Applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences (or a PharmD) from KSU or an equivalent accredited institution.
• GPA Standards:
  • A minimum cumulative GPA of “Very Good” (3.75/5.0) is typically required.
  • Applicants with a “Good” (2.75/5.0) cumulative GPA may be considered if they earned a “Very Good” grade in their undergraduate specialty courses.
• Equivalency: Degrees obtained from outside Saudi Arabia must be officially equalized by the Saudi Ministry of Education. 
• English Proficiency: A minimum score of 475 on the TOEFL-PBT (or equivalent) or an IELTS Academic score of 5.0 is required.
• Post-Graduate Admission Test (PGAT): For certain tracks like the MSc in Pharmacy (Toxicology), a minimum score of 65 on the PGAT is required.
• Departmental Entrance Exam: Candidates must pass a written admission examination administered by the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology.
  

• Recommendations: Two academic recommendation letters from former professors.
• Employer Approval: A written letter of approval from the applicant’s employer if they are currently working.
• Identification: Proof of Saudi nationality or an official scholarship for non-Saudi residents.
• Professional Interview: Candidates who pass the written exam must also qualify for a final personal interview. 

First Year – First Semester

PHG512 – Advanced Pharmacology I – 3 Credit Hours
PHG511 – Experimental Pharmacology – 3 Credit Hours
PHG541 – Pharmacometric Measurements (Statistics/Design) – 3 Credit Hours
PHG521 – Physiological Chemistry – 3 Credit Hours

First Year – Second Semester

PHG513 – Advanced Pharmacology II (Cardiovascular & Renal) – 3 Credit Hours
PHG514 – Advanced Pharmacology III (CNS & Psychological Disorders) – 3 Credit Hours
PHG515 – Drug Screening – 3 Credit Hours
PHG516 – Discussion Session / Journal Club – 2 Credit Hours

Second Year – First Semester

PHG522 – Clinical Toxicology – 3 Credit Hours
PHG523 – Environmental and Industrial Toxicology – 3 Credit Hours
PHG524 – Advanced Toxicology Assessment – 3 Credit Hours

Second Year – Second Semester

PHM600 – Master’s Thesis – 6–7 Credit Hours
(Original research based on a chosen topic in pharmacology or toxicology; requires completion of all coursework before enrollment)