Program Overview

This graduate-level certificate program has been developed for employees dealing with drug discovery and evaluation issues who work in pharmaceutical, biotech, and medical device manufacturing companies. The certificate covers the basic biochemical molecular principles governing drug design, synthesis, mode of action at biological targets, formulation, and metabolism. Students will gain enhanced knowledge regarding bioorganic principles related to pharmaceutical science.

Available in a certificate program format and now entirely online (interactive satellite broadcast of courses will be scheduled occasionally for participation at LESN partner sites), Lehigh University provides you with the tools you need to be successful with our Certificate in BioOrganic Principles of Pharmaceutical Science.

Credit and Professional Continuing Education options are available. Students will take any 12 credits from the following courses to complete either the credit or professional continuing education certificate requirements. A maximum of 6 credits may be taken at the 300 level. [NOTE:No course may be applied to more than one certificate]

• *Advanced Organic Chemistry (Chemistry 358)
• *Elements of Biochemistry I (Chemistry 371)
• Elements of Biochemistry II (Chemistry 372)
• BioOrganic Chemistry (Chemistry 423)
• Medicinal & Pharmaceutical Chemistry (Chemistry 424)
• Organic Reactions (Chemistry 455)
• Advanced Topics in Chemistry (Chemistry 475)
• Topics in Biochemistry (Chemistry 477)
• Process Chemistry (Chemistry 497)

*Note: Either one of these courses is suggested as a starting point in the program.

Recommended background: Students should possess a BS or BA in chemistry or biochemistry; or a minimum of two semesters of general chemistry with associated labs, two semesters of organic chemistry with associated labs, and at least two upper level chemistry courses.

• Prospective students wishing to pursue this certificate for credit will apply for Non- Degree admission that is intended for applicants wishing to take up to twelve credit hours of graduate-level study without seeking a degree.
• Students may begin the courses at the start of any semester period – Summer/Fall/Spring  Please refer to Chemistry Admissions Deadlines.
• Course are offered in a semester-based timeframe
• There is no residency requirement
• Students taking courses for credit are responsible for arranging for an independent proctor for examinations. Proctoring may be done by an employee of an academic institution or library, or by HR or other company official. The proctor may not be related to or affiliated with the student in any way. Proctoring eligibility will be verified by Lehigh’s Office of Distance Education.

This certificate program is available either for Credit or Professional Continuing Education participation. Choose the learning option you prefer based on your career needs and academic goals. Lehigh University’s commitment to academic excellence ensures your education experience will prepare you for the challenges you face in today’s dynamic work environment.

Program Advisor: Professor Rebecca Miller, 610-758-3676 or e-mail at rsm4@lehigh.edu.