PhD Pharmacy: Course, Admission, Entrance Exam, Fees, Syllabus, Career Scope & Salary


Last Updated on 24th January 2026

Ph.D. (Pharmacy)

Overview

Ph.D in Pharmacy Latest updates

  • PhD in Pharmacy admission for 2025–2026 have started across top government and private universities in India.
  • Many reputed institutes like NIPER, BITS Pilani, and Jamia Hamdard have already announced entrance tests, while some private universities are offering direct admission based on eligibility.

PhD in Pharmacy is an advanced research-based doctoral program. The PhD in Pharmacy course duration is 3 to 5 years. For PhD in Pharmacy course eligibility, candidates must have completed an M.Pharm or an equivalent degree with at least 55% marks (50% for reserved categories). Admissions are primarily based on national-level entrance exams like GPAT, UGC-NET, CSIR-NET, or university-specific PhD entrance tests. Some private universities also offer direct admission based on academic merit, research proposal, and interview performance. Top institutes accepting PhD in Pharmacy applications include NIPER (all campuses), BITS Pilani, Jamia Hamdard, and Manipal College of Pharmaceutical Sciences. The PhD in Pharmacy course fees structure varies depending on the institution, with government universities charging around ₹20,000 to ₹60,000 per year, while private universities fees between ₹1.5 lakh and ₹4 lakh per year.

PhD in Pharmacy graduates may apply internationally, especially in countries like the USA, Canada, and Germany, where there is a growing demand for pharmaceutical researchers and regulatory experts. Top recruiters include leading pharmaceutical companies like Sun Pharma, Cipla, Pfizer, and Novartis, offering opportunities in research, clinical trials, drug development, and regulatory affairs.


PhD Pharmacy: Quick Highlights

PhD in Pharmacy is a doctoral program emphasizing studies in pharmaceutical sciences. It covers drug development, pharmacology, and regulatory affairs, preparing applicants for advanced roles in academia and enterprise.

Particulars

Details

Full Form of PhD in Pharmacy

Doctor of Philosophy in Pharmacy

PhD in Pharmacy Level

Doctoral

PhD in Pharmacy Course Duration

  • 3–5 years (Full-Time)
  • 4–6 years (Part-Time)

PhD in Pharmacy Type

Research-Based

Application Mode

Online/Offline

Entrance Test for PhD in Pharmacy

  • GPAT
  • UGC-NET
  • CSIR-NET
  • University-specific exams

PhD in Pharmacy Fees

₹50,000–₹3,00,000 per year

Top Colleges for PhD in Pharmacy

Top Specializations After PhD in Pharmacy

  • Pharmacology
  • Pharmaceutics
  • Medicinal Chemistry
  • Clinical Pharmacy

Top Recruiters for PhD in Pharmacy

  • Sun Pharma
  • Cipla
  • Pfizer
  • Novartis


FAQs

Ques. 1. Is it mandatory to qualify for GPAT or CSIR-NET for PhD in Pharmacy admission?

Ans 1. No, it’s not mandatory for all institutes, but most reputed universities prefer these qualifications.

Ques. 2. What is the benefit of pursuing a PhD in Pharmacy?

Ans 2. It provides opportunities in research, teaching, and senior roles in pharmaceutical companies globally.


Why Choose PhD in Pharmacy?

PhD in Pharmacy is an enormous opportunity for people who want to be experts in pharmaceutical sciences in the future. This high-level qualification also endows the candidates with skills in research, innovation and leadership positions, thus being assets in both the institute and industries.


Advantages of a PhD in Pharmacy

1. High-Level Research Opportunities: Work in highly advanced research involving drug development, drug delivery systems, and therapeutic advances.

2. Academic and Industrial Needs: The demand for highly qualified professionals is increasing in universities, research institutes, and pharmaceutical companies. 

3. High-paying professions: Pharmaceutical R&D, regulatory affairs, clinical research, and medical writing.

4. Occupational Opportunities in Drug Discovery and Regulatory Affairs: Graduates of PhD programs are important in the discovery of new drugs, formulation development, and regulatory compliance of pharmaceutical products.

5. International Research Partnerships: Work together with the most prestigious universities, research centres, and multinational pharmaceutical.

6. It adds to the area of Public Health: PhD students, by means of innovative research.


FAQs

Ques. 1. Does a PhD (Pharmacy) improve job prospects in the pharmaceutical industry?

Ans 1. Yes, it significantly enhances job opportunities in research, regulatory affairs, and leadership roles within the pharmaceutical industry.

Ques. 2. Can PhD in Pharmacy graduates work with international research organizations?

Ans 2. Yes, many PhD (Pharmacy) graduates collaborate with global universities, research institutes, and multinational pharmaceutical companies.


PhD Pharmacy: Qualification

PhD in Pharmacy, candidates need:

  • Master’s Degree: M.Pharm or equivalent with 55%–60% marks.
  • Entrance Exam: Valid scores in GPAT, UGC-NET, or CSIR-NET.

Qualification

Details

Educational Requirement

M.Pharm/M.Sc. in related fields

Minimum Marks

55%–60% (5% relaxation for SC/ST/OBC)

Entrance Exam

  • GPAT
  • UGC-NET
  • CSIR-NET
  • University-specific


PhD Pharmacy:  Duration

The PhD in Pharmacy course duration is generally 3–5 years for full-time candidates and 4 – 6 years for part-time candidates, depending on research progress and institutional guidelines. Extensions may additionally be granted for complicated thesis work.


FAQs

Ques. 1. Is there any relaxation in PhD in Pharmacy course eligibility for reserved categories?

Ans 1. Yes, reserved categories like OBC, SC, ST, and PwD candidates get a relaxation of 5% to 10% in minimum marks.

Ques. 2. How long does it take to complete a PhD in Pharmacy?

Ans 2. The PhD in Pharmacy typically takes 3 to 5 years for full-time candidates and 4 to 6 years for part-time candidates.


PhD Pharmacy Syllabus

PhD in Pharmacy syllabus includes work and research.

Semester

Subjects

1–2

Research Methodology, Biostatistics, Advanced Pharmacology


PhD in Pharmacy  Seats

PhD in Pharmacy seats vary by institution and state. PhD in Pharmacy  Seats in Government Colleges in India (State-Wise). Approximately 200 government colleges offer PhD in Pharmacy with limited seats.

State

Government Colleges

Seats

Maharashtra

ICT Mumbai

20–30

Punjab

NIPER Mohali

15–25

Delhi

Jamia Hamdard

10–20


PhD in Pharmacy  Seats in Private Colleges in India (State-Wise)

Around 150 private colleges provide PhD in Pharmacy.

State

Private Colleges

Seats

Karnataka

Manipal University

10–15

Rajasthan

BITS Pilani

5–10

Uttar Pradesh

Amity University

15–20


FAQs

Ques. 1. How many seats are available for PhD in Pharmacy in top government colleges?

Ans 1. Top government colleges like ICT Mumbai, NIPER Mohali, and Jamia Hamdard offer 10 to 30 seats, depending on the institution.

Ques. 2. Are there enough PhD in Pharmacy seats available in private colleges?

Ans 2. Yes, around 150 private colleges in India, including Manipal University, BITS Pilani, and Amity University, offer PhD in Pharmacy seats.

Ph.D. (Pharmacy)

PhD in Pharmacy Exams

PhD in Pharmacy entrance exam involves national-level examinations. 

  • GPAT
  • UGC-NET
  • CSIR-NET.

How to Prepare for PhD in pharmacy Entrance exam 2025

Step 1: Learn about the exam pattern and syllabus.

Step 2: Read Pharmacology, Pharmaceutics, Pharmaceutical Chemistry

Step 3: Train Learn organic, medicinal, and analytical chemistry (spectroscopy, drug synthesis).

Step 4: Practice of Previous Years Papers.

Step 5: Do Mock Tests.

Step 6: Make a Study Timetable.

Step 7: Revision & Resources.

Step 8: Examination approach.

Step 9: Health And Consistency.

Books and materials to study before GPAT 2025

  • Books: A companion to GPAT, N.N. Inamdar.
  • Internet: Unacademy, GPAT Discussion Forums.


PhD in Pharmacy Exams FAQs

Ques. 1. Is there any relaxation in PhD in Pharmacy course eligibility for reserved categories?

Ans 1. Yes, reserved categories like OBC, SC, ST, and PwD candidates get a relaxation of 5% to 10% in minimum marks.

Ques. 2. How long does it take to complete a PhD in pharmacy?

Ans 2. The PhD in Pharmacy  typically takes 3 to 5 years for full-time candidates and 4 

to 6 years for part-time candidates.

No results found

We couldn't find any exam for this course!

Ph.D. (Pharmacy)

Top Universities/Colleges for PhD in Pharmacy

Top institutions offer PhD in Pharmacy with excellent research facilities.

Colleges

Rank

Fees 

NIPER Mohali

1

₹1,00,000/year

Jamia Hamdard

2

₹1,20,000/year

BITS Pilani

3

₹2,50,000/year


Government Colleges in India

Over 200 government colleges offer a PhD in Pharmacy with affordable fees and robust research programs.

Government Colleges

Location

Fees 

NIPER Mohali

Punjab

₹1,00,000/year

ICT Mumbai

Maharashtra

₹80,000/year


Private Colleges in India

Approximately 150 private colleges provide PhD in Pharmacy with modern facilities.

Private Colleges

Location

Fees (₹)

Manipal University

Karnataka

₹2,00,000/year

Amity University

Uttar Pradesh

₹1,80,000/year


Colleges Abroad

Leading international universities offer PhD (Pharmacy) programs with cutting-edge research opportunities and global academic exposure.

Colleges

Location

Fees

University of Toronto

Canada

₹20,00,000 per year

UCL School of Pharmacy

UK

₹25,00,000 per year


FAQs

Ques. 1. Which are the top-ranked colleges for PhD in Pharmacy in India?

Ans 1. Top-ranked colleges include NIPER Mohali, Jamia Hamdard, and BITS Pilani, known for quality research and academic excellence.

Ques. 2. Can I pursue a PhD in Pharmacy from universities abroad?

Ans 2. Yes, reputed international universities like the University of Toronto and UCL School of Pharmacy (UK) offer PhD in Pharmacy programs with world-class research facilities.


PhD in Pharmacy: Abroad vs India

Pursuing a PhD in pharmacy in India and abroad offers different advantages in terms of cost, research exposure, and facilities. Here's a quick comparison to help candidates make an informed choice:

Criteria

India

Abroad

Fees

₹50,000–₹3,00,000/year

₹15,00,000–₹30,00,000/year

Duration

3–5 years

3–6 years

Research Facilities

Moderate to High

Advanced

Ph.D. (Pharmacy)

PhD in Pharmacy Eligibility

PhD in Pharmacy course eligibility varies by category to ensure inclusivity.

Category

Eligibility Criteria

General

M.Pharm with 60% marks, valid entrance score

OBC

M.Pharm with 55% marks, valid entrance score

SC/ST

M.Pharm with 50% marks, valid entrance score

PwD

50% marks with relaxation as per norms

Ph.D. (Pharmacy)

PhD in Pharmacy Admissions

PhD in Pharmacy admission Process involves entrance tests, interviews, and study proposals.

Particulars

Details

Entrance Exam for PhD in Pharmacy

  • GPAT
  • UGC-NET
  • CSIR-NET
  • University-specific

Minimum Age Requirement

No age limit

Eligibility

M.Pharm with 55%–60% marks

Qualifying Marks

As per the entrance exam cutoffs


1 - Application Process for PhD in Pharmacy 

The admission process for the PhD in Pharmacy is done in different universities, institutes (e.g., NIPER, BITS Pilani) or even in state education boards. There are slight differences between the institutes or the states in the procedure:

Step 1: The Application Form

Step 2: Admission Doublet or Merit Selection

Step 3: Verification of Documents and Interview/Counselling

Step 4: Definite Admission and Fee Payment

Official websites of institutes or state-level education boards should be checked by each candidate frequently to get a specific schedule and updates.


2 - Application Submission

Submit packages online/offline with academic information and front rankings.


3- Interview/Proposal

Shortlisted candidates attend interviews or present research proposals.

Ph.D. (Pharmacy)

PhD in Pharmacy Fees

The PhD in Pharmacy fees vary by means of group

Type of Institution

Annual Fees (Approx.)

Government Universities

₹50,000 – ₹1,50,000 per year

Private Universities

₹1,00,000 – ₹3,00,000 per year

Additional Fees

Lab charges, thesis submission: ₹10,000 – ₹50,000

Ph.D. (Pharmacy)

PhD in Pharmacy Placements

Top Recruiters/Placement Companies

Major pharmaceutical enterprises such as Sun Pharma, Cipla, Pfizer, and Novartis consider PhD in Pharmacy graduates to fill the workplaces with competent specialists in further research and development of drugs and innovations. 

1. Sun Pharma

2. Cipla

3. Pfizer

4. Novartis


PhD in Pharmacy  Salary Package

The salary package for PhD in Pharmacy graduates varies by role and location.

Role

Salary (₹)

Professor

8,00,000–15,00,000 per annum

Research Scientist

10,00,000–20,00,000 per annum


1 - PhD in Pharmacy Salary Package in India

Average: ₹8,00,000–20,00,000 Per annum.

2 - PhD in Pharmacy Salary Package Abroad

Average: ₹30,00,000–60,00,000 Per annum.


Scope/Career Options After PhD in Pharmacy 

PhD in Pharmacy graduates have diverse career opportunities in academia, research, and the pharmaceutical industry. Common roles include becoming a professor in universities, working as a research scientist in drug discovery, and serving as a regulatory affairs manager to ensure compliance with national and international drug regulations.

PhD in Pharmacy scopes include roles in academia, research, and industry.

Career Option

Description

Professor

Teaching in universities

Research Scientist

Drug development in pharma companies

Regulatory Affairs Manager

Ensuring compliance with drug regulations


 FAQs

Ques. 1. How long is a PhD in Pharmacy?

Ans 1. The time that is usually consumed can be between 3 and 5 years on a full-time program, whereas part-time, 4 to 6 years, is more accommodating to working professionals or otherwise occupied individuals.


Ques. 2. What entrance examinations are needed?

Ans 2. Admission is through entrance exams or the Post-Graduate Admission Test (GPAT), UGC-NET, CSIR-NET or admitting university entrance tests that test the suitability of a candidate through subject knowledge and abilities in research and higher academic research.


Ques. 3. How much does a Ph.D in Pharmacy cost in India on average?

Ans 3. Average fees in government colleges are around 50,000-1,50,000 rupees/year and 100,000-300,000 rupees/year in the case of private schools.


Ques. 4. Which careers exist once you have earned a PhD in Pharmacy?

Ans 4. Pharmaceutical sciences Graduates may become professors, research scientists, or regulatory affairs manager.

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