University of the Sciences

About University of the Sciences

The University of the Sciences, now merged with Saint Joseph's University, maintained a distinctive identity as one of America's premier institutions for pharmaceutical and health science education in Philadelphia. Founded in 1821 as the Philadelphia College of Pharmacy—the first pharmacy school in North America—the institution pioneered pharmaceutical education for two centuries. With approximately 1,800 students before the merger, USciences offered specialized programs in pharmacy, health sciences, and science disciplines. The acceptance rate of approximately 56% reflected selective admissions in competitive health programs. A strong graduation rate exceeding 71% demonstrated commitment to student success in demanding curricula. The urban campus in West Philadelphia provided access to the city's extensive healthcare industry and research institutions. The merger with Saint Joseph's University in 2022 preserved USciences' distinctive programs within a larger institutional framework while expanding opportunities for students.

Admission to the University of the Sciences evaluated students for academic preparation, particularly in science and mathematics, and potential for success in rigorous health science programs. The acceptance rate of approximately 56% reflected competitive admissions in professional programs. Required materials included high school transcripts with strong science and math coursework, standardized test scores, and applications demonstrating interest in health careers. The PharmD program followed a direct-entry model admitting students as freshmen to the six-year program. Physical therapy and physician assistant programs had specific prerequisite and selection requirements. Campus visits and interviews helped applicants understand the demanding nature of health science education. Early application was encouraged for competitive programs. Transfer students with completed prerequisites received consideration for professional programs. International applicants demonstrated English proficiency and completed credential evaluations. The merger with Saint Joseph's University changed admissions processes for current students.

Academic programs at the University of the Sciences centered on health sciences and pharmacy, with the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) program being the flagship offering. Additional programs spanned pharmaceutical sciences, physical therapy, physician assistant studies, health policy, and traditional sciences including biology, chemistry, and physics. Faculty members combined scholarly research with teaching in small, laboratory-intensive classes. The average SAT score of 1165 among enrolled students reflected strong STEM preparation. Clinical rotations and research experiences connected classroom learning with professional practice. Research laboratories supported both faculty investigation and undergraduate research opportunities. The Philadelphia location provided clinical sites at major hospital systems and pharmaceutical companies. Professional preparation included licensure exam preparation and career guidance. Academic support services helped students succeed in rigorous science curricula. The merger with Saint Joseph's University maintained these distinctive programs while expanding liberal arts opportunities.

Key Highlights

• Private non-profit institution with strong academic tradition
• Located in a major metropolitan area with excellent opportunities
• Research-intensive with extensive graduate programs
• Diverse academic programs across multiple disciplines

Student Life & Environment

Student life at the University of the Sciences reflected the focused, professionally-oriented culture of a specialized health sciences institution. The small student body created close-knit communities within academic programs where students supported each other through demanding coursework. Pre-professional organizations and honor societies provided networking and leadership development. Athletics competed at the NCAA Division II level, with students balancing competitive sports with rigorous academic schedules. The urban campus in West Philadelphia offered access to the city's restaurants, entertainment, and cultural attractions. Housing options included residence halls and nearby apartments. Student organizations spanned academic, recreational, and service interests. The concentrated curriculum limited some traditional college activities but created strong professional bonds among classmates. Career services connected students with the extensive Philadelphia pharmaceutical and healthcare industry. Student support services including tutoring and counseling addressed the stresses of health science education.

Location & Surroundings

The University of the Sciences' campus in West Philadelphia placed students in one of America's major healthcare and pharmaceutical centers. Philadelphia hosts numerous hospital systems, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies that provided clinical training sites and employment opportunities. The urban campus integrated with the University City neighborhood, home also to the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University. Center City Philadelphia with its historic sites, cultural institutions, and dining scene was easily accessible. The city's extensive public transportation system connected the campus to clinical sites and attractions throughout the region. The cost of living, while higher than some areas, was moderate for a major northeastern city. The climate features four distinct seasons with hot, humid summers and cold winters. The city's deep healthcare industry roots—including as birthplace of American medicine—created an ideal environment for health sciences education. Regional employers actively recruited USciences graduates.

Costs & Career Outcomes

Education at the University of the Sciences represented a significant investment in professional preparation, with annual tuition of approximately $35,000 plus fees, room, and board. However, the specialized career outcomes—pharmacists, physical therapists, physician assistants—provided strong return on investment with high earning potential. Merit scholarships based on academic achievement helped offset costs. Need-based financial aid assisted qualifying families. The graduation rate exceeding 71% reflected strong student success in professional programs. Career services maintained relationships with Philadelphia's pharmaceutical companies, hospital systems, and healthcare organizations. Employment outcomes were strong, with graduates entering high-demand health professions. The PharmD program prepared graduates for pharmacy licensure with strong exam pass rates. Physical therapy and physician assistant graduates achieved similar professional success. The alumni network in pharmaceutical and healthcare industries provided mentorship and advancement opportunities. The merger with Saint Joseph's University maintained career services for health science students.