The foundation module is designed to provide students with an in-depth knowledge of applied pharmaceutical sciences, biopharmaceutics, pharmacokinetics and regulatory affairs. Novel concepts in leading edge industrial pharmaceutical research, applied statistics and experimental design are a major component of the module.

The core module focuses on practical training in pharmaceutical experimental design, formulation technology and manufacturing techniques. Hands-on experience is acquired through team-based projects in compliance with GMP and GLP, in our state-of-the-art research laboratories and manufacturing plant. Analytical techniques, problem solving, protocol, and technical writing skills are acquired throughout the module.

The advanced module provides an opportunity to engage in independent drug development and research projects. The focus is on drug delivery, dosage form design, process development, and scale-up technology.

The R&D program exposes students to pharmaceutical formulation development with an emphasis on the following research themes:

• Pharmacology project: Pharmaceutical Expert research report
• Pre-formulation & Compatibility Studies
• Compression Technology: scientific basis for excipient selection
• Predictive DOE for Immediate release solid dosage formulation
• Granulation process development
• DOE for Generic drug development
• Development of Controlled Release Formulation
• Formulation Scale-up Study

Written, oral, and practical examinations are mandatory at the end of the foundation and core modules. In the advanced module, assessment is based on dissertation and viva-voce. In addition, the overall grade is also based on continuous assessments encompassing GMP and GLP compliance, pharmaceutical documentation skills and interim quizzes.

The Pharmaceutical Research & Development Technology Diploma is awarded upon successful completion of all three modules.

Work of exceptional quality may be considered for publication in pharmaceutical-oriented journals.

Students who are at the final stages of their program and have excelled in all aspects of their training may apply for an internship. These opportunities allow selected students to gain additional experience through working with staff and faculty on one of the many unique projects undertaken at the Institute.

International students are required to undertake a six-month co-op internship to complete their program. Students intern through commercial project assignments and placements at world-class pharmaceutical companies such as Sanofi-Aventis, GSK, Patheon, Therapure, PharmaScience and others.

A unique and highly successful aspect of our program is the didactic component that all students receive industry standard ‘work experience’ in our own GMP facility. Throughout the program, various practical projects expose the student to pharmaceutical industry standard equipment and instrumentation and lets students apply their skills and knowledge in a real-world work setting.

International students also complete a 12 week co-op internship as part of their program completion and graduation requirements.

Students can complete this program with the following scheduling options:

• Full-time: weekly daytime classes, completed in 52 weeks.
• Flex: full-time classes on evenings & weekends, completed in 52 weeks.
• Flex+: part-time classes over a longer duration.