University of Wisconsin Opens Country’s First Master’s in Psychedelic Medicine

The University of Wisconsin-Madison School of Pharmacy is opening the country’s first and only master’s program in psychedelic medicine. The new, fully online MS in Pharmaceutical Sciences: Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation is designed to prepare graduates for the field of therapeutic development and deployment of psychedelics, entheogens, cannabinoids, and other psychoactive substances. 

“We look forward to our renowned School of Pharmacy becoming a world leader in the provision of high-quality educational experiences that prepare individuals for engagement in research, therapeutic application, advocacy, and regulatory development for the next generation of psychoactive pharmaceuticals,” says Steve Swanson, Dean of the School of Pharmacy. 

The curriculum aims to prepare students for both the development and application of psychedelic therapies such as MDMA, psilocybin, ketamine, and LSD. Research on these medicines shows they are effective in treating a variety of mental health conditions including anxiety, depression, and PTSD. 

“The scope of the psychedelic research ‘renaissance’ is rapidly expanding beyond academic research. We see ongoing progress in active healthcare delivery settings, evolving opportunities in governmental, regulatory and legal organizations, and substantial new investments in the pharmaceutical industry,” says Cody Wenthur, director of the Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation program. “This master’s program was designed in collaboration with external partners to ensure that graduates will leave the program with real-world knowledge and in-demand job skills.” 

Those interested in enrolling in the program should apply by July 31 for fall semester or Oct. 31 for spring semester. The 31-credit program can be completed in two years. An accelerated one-year option will be available fall 2022. A nondegree 12-credit Capstone Certificate in Psychoactive Pharmaceutical Investigation alternative is available as well.