Overview of the ShanghaiRanking Result
The ShanghaiRanking’s Global Ranking of Academic Subjects 2025 has identified Semmelweis University as one of the world’s top 75 institutions in Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences. This marks the university’s best result to date and places it ahead of notable counterparts such as ETH Zurich, New York University and the University of Bologna. In parallel, Semmelweis is positioned among the top 400 in Public Health, top 300 in Dentistry & Oral Sciences, Medical Technology and Biological Sciences, and top 200 in Clinical Medicine.
What the Ranking Means for Prospective Students
For students planning a career in pharmaceuticals, the ranking offers a clear benchmark of the quality of research, faculty expertise and industry ties. A high ranking translates into exposure to cutting‑edge research projects, opportunities for publications, and stronger placement prospects in multinational pharmaceutical companies.
Key Strengths Highlighted by ShanghaiRanking
Research Impact and Publication Output
Semmelweis achieved its greatest improvement in the number of publications in high‑impact journals. Dr. Péter Ferdinandy—Vice‑Rector for Science and Innovations and Editor‑in‑Chief of the British Journal of Pharmacology—attributes this to the Center for Pharmacology and Drug Research & Development, which merges teaching, research and industry collaboration.
Industry Partnerships and Innovation
The center’s excellent research infrastructure rating from the National Research, Development and Innovation Office (NKFIH) confirms that the university has built a knowledge base attractive to both pharmaceutical firms and academic partners. Students can benefit from internships, joint projects and access to biotech start‑ups headquartered on campus.
Interdisciplinary Curriculum
Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences at Semmelweis extends beyond traditional drug analysis. The curriculum integrates medicinal chemistry, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, regulatory affairs and clinical trial management, ensuring graduates are ready for global pharmaceutical environments.
Programs of Interest for International Applicants
Semmelweis offers several programs that align with the ShanghaiRanking recognition:
- Ph.D. in Pharmacy & Pharmaceutical Sciences – Structured as a research‑driven degree with opportunities to collaborate on high‑visibility projects and publish in renowned journals.
- Master of Science in Applied Pharmacy – Focuses on drug development, formulation science and regulatory compliance.
- Clinical Pharmacy Internship – Partners with the clinical centre in Budapest, giving practical exposure to pharmaceutical care in hospital settings.
All graduate programs are available in English and incorporate a substantial amount of laboratory training using state‑of‑the‑art equipment.
Scholarships and Funding Opportunities
The university’s scholarship scheme supports international students in both tuition and living costs. Funding options include:
- Semmelweis University Scholarship – Awarded on academic merit and an additional grant for international applicants.
- EU Erasmus+ and Marie Skłodowska‑Curie Fellowships – Available for Ph.D. candidates, facilitating mobility across European research hubs.
- Part‑time research assistant positions – Provide tuition waivers in exchange for lab work.
How to Apply
Applicants should:
- Download the application form from the Semmelweis Admission portal.
- Prepare a detailed statement of purpose, emphasizing research interests that align with the university’s focus areas (e.g., drug discovery, pharmacogenomics).
- Submit two academic references and proof of language proficiency (TOEFL or IELTS scores for English‑based programs).
- Complete the online application by the due date (usually mid‑January for fall admission). Late applications will be considered only on a case‑by‑case basis.
Once accepted, students should register through Neptun to access the student portal, register courses and view semester schedules.
Benefits of Choosing Semmelweis in Hungary
* Strategic location: Budapest is a cultural hub with a robust pharmaceutical industry presence, including several multinational headquarters.
* Affordable living costs: Compared to Western European capitals, Budapest offers a lower cost of living while still delivering a high quality of life.
* Multilingual environment: The university operates in English and Hungarian, providing an integrated language learning experience.
Next Steps for Interested Students
Ready to pursue a career in pharmacy or pharmaceutical research? The following actions can help you get started:
- Submit your application today – Begin the process by accessing the online portal and gathering required documents.
- Explore our scholarship options – Review available financial aid packages to reduce the cost of study.
- Schedule a virtual campus tour – Connect with admissions staff and current students for first‑hand insights.
- Follow us on social media – Stay updated on research breakthroughs, student life and upcoming webinars.
By combining a strong research output, industry collaborations and a supportive learning environment, Semmelweis University provides a distinct advantage for anyone looking to build a career in pharmacy and pharmaceutical sciences.
