May 31, 2026  
2026-2027 Catalog and Student Handbook 
    
2026-2027 Catalog and Student Handbook

Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, AAS


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Pharmaceutical Manufacturing, Associate of Applied Science, AAS

PURPOSE: This two-year degree prepares students to enter the workforce as Production Technicians, Quality Control Specialists, and Quality Assurance Specialists in pharmaceutical manufacturing and related industries.   In addition, Brightpoint has established articulation agreements that create clear academic pathways for students to pursue Virginia Commonwealth University’s Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences degree, as well as Virginia State University’s Bachelor of Science degrees in Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or Manufacturing Engineering.

CREDENTIALS:  An Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree is a major career-technical area that takes two years for full-time students to complete. Although the purpose of an AAS degree is to gain skills for employment, some transfer institutions may accept some or all of the courses from an AAS major. 

TRANSFER INFORMATION: This program is not intended for transfer.  Students desiring to transfer should consult their academic advisors and their intended transfer institutions for specific direction in program and course selection. More information can also be found at www.brightpoint.edu/academics/transfer/.  Students should consult with their faculty advisor for more information on the transfer articulation agreements with Virginia State University and Virginia Commonwealth University for this program.

PROGRAM REQUIREMENTS AND SPECIAL CONDITIONS: Students must meet Brightpoint admission requirements. New students should work with their New Student Navigator to get ready for their first semester. They can also email getstarted@brightpoint.edu for assistance. Continuing students should work with their faculty advisor on academic planning and graduation requirements.

PROGRAM OUTCOMES: By the completion of this program, students will be expected to demonstrate an intermediate level of competency in the following skills:

1. Demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary for mid-level positions as Production Technicians, Quality Control Specialists, and Quality Assurance Specialists in pharmaceutical manufacturing and related industries.

2. Demonstrate safety skills and knowledge as pertains to pharmaceutical manufacturing environments.

3. Communicate effectively through oral, written, and technological means to support pharmaceutical manufacturing operations and outcomes.

        4. Apply concepts and practices involved in maintaining quality standards in the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry.

Required Courses


Mathematics (3-9 credits)


Humanities/Fine Arts/Literature Elective (3 credits)


Social/Behavioral Sciences (3 credits)


Total Minimum Credits to Complete: 63-69


ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

Pre-requisite and co-requisite requirements can be found in course details.

Students are strongly encouraged to complete any SDV, ENG, and MTH requirements first.

Students should regularly meet with their faculty advisor and check their degree progress by accessing advisement reports in the Student Information System (SIS) in the myBrightpoint portal or the Academic Planner in Navigate.

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