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Would a BSc in Chemistry from an Ivy League be more attractive to employer & PhD programs than a BSc (BSPS) in Pharmaceutical Sciences from another good school?

As it stands, I have a few great schools in mind for a BSPS that I think I stand a good chance of getting into (ex. Northeastern University, University of Pittsburg, University of Michigan at Ann Arbor). However, I've hesitated to add any Ivy Leagues to my college list because none of them offer a BSPS in undergrad. Although, for my future of plans of pursuing a PhD in Organic Chemistry or Medicinal Chemistry (with the ultimate goal of doing R&D for big pharma), a BSc in Chemistry with an organic focus would suit my purposes quite well---and all Ivy Leagues certainly offer that. But from what I know, general STEM degrees like Chemistry do not offer much in the way of high-paying jobs. While I don't plan to work immediately after my undergrad (I would like to enter a PhD program right away), unforeseen circumstances may arise, and I want to be sure my degree qualifies me for a job that could support me in the meantime. All of this to ask: would a BSc in Chem from an Ivy League secure me a well paying job ($60k+), or is it not worth it to apply since that isn't my major of choice? Would it be worth it for other reasons? For context, I don't have any school in mind to apply Early Decision for, but if the Chem degree is worth it, I would do it for an Ivy. Is that a safe decision with all I have in mind?

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Mary’s Answer

Bachelor of Science in Pharmaceutical Sciences (BSPS/BSc) programs are offered by specialized health science centers and universities, including prominent regional options like Temple University as well as national institutions like MCPHS and Ohio State University. These four-year undergraduate degrees focus on drug discovery, pharmacology, and development rather than clinical licensure. Regarding the IVY vs non IVY schools, at the end of the day these only matter in getting into other programs BUT NOT when it comes to getting a job. Keep in mind that your career goals change as you get exposed to other options so I would keep my options open and focus on general science education rather than pursuing a particular career endpoint. It's too early for you to be making career decisions and AI may affect drug development so then there will be few jobs in that field.
Getting PharmD is more appropriate if you want to pursue a career as a pharmacist. However, many PharmD's go on to get masters or PhD's in pharmaceutical research so you can work as a pharmacist and continue schooling to earn masters or doctorate degrees. Also within the PharmD curriculum you can work some of your rotations in final year at pharmaceutical companies just to get exposure to research to see whether it's right for you.
Prior to working in hospital pharmacy for over 35 years and now specialty retail pharmacy, I worked in formulation research and market research (in pharmaceutical industry) and it wasn't as gratifying FOR ME because I was really interested in having a more stable career in healthcare. It all depends on what you want!
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