Programme summary for BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science
Pharmaceutical Science is a multi-disciplinary subject, requiring knowledge of chemistry, anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, molecular biology and toxicology, applying their principles to the study of drugs. This programme is run by the School of Health, Sport and Bioscience
About the programme
The programme is based around the development of new medicines, including the design, disposition, delivery, action and use of drugs. This requires diverse subject knowledge including chemistry, biology, epidemiology, statistics and chemical engineering.
In particular you will study pharmacology (the effect of drugs on humans), pharmaceutical chemistry (design and synthesis of new drug molecules), pharmaceutics (drug formulation for optimum delivery) and pharmacognosy (drug substances from natural origins).
2-subject degrees
You can combine this programme with a range of other subjects as part of a 2-subject degree. Popular combinations include Pharmaceutical Science and Biochemistry, Pharmaceutical Science and Human Biology and Pharmaceutical Science with Public Health.
Programme structure
The first year of the programme gives you a general foundation for future, more specialist study. You will study Professional Practice, Essential Chemistry, Human Physiology and Biochemistry.
At level 2 you will continue your study of Biochemistry, plus the introduction of more specialist modules in Pharmacology, Toxicology and Pharmaceutics.
In the final year you will continue your studies of Pharmacology and Toxicology and also include modules on Pharmaceutical Analysis and Drug Design. You will also undertake an individual research project involving original self directed work. This may be laboratory based, or it may involve a library investigation, but in either case it will involve the generation and assessment of data.
You will be assessed in practical work and theory. In most modules 50% of the module mark is derived from coursework during the semester (this can take a variety of forms including laboratory work, data analysis, essays, oral presentations etc.) and 50% from unseen written theory examination at the end of the semester. Some modules also include laboratory practical exams.
There may be the opportunity to undertake a one year placement or a short internship. This is optional but, when available, is strongly recommended
Career opportunities
As a BSc Pharmaceutical Science graduate you have a wide range of career options available to you. Many organisations employ pharmaceutical scientists in a range of roles. These include:
- drug companies which are developing new drugs and evaluating new products; chemical companies making intermediates for the drug industry require graduates with analytical skills who have an understanding of drug development
- major pharmaceutical companies that employ graduates to advise customers on technical aspects of their products
- universities and research institutes offering research-based careers
- opportunities outside the pharmaceutical industry in teaching and professions such as accounting and finance
Support
The School of Health and Bioscience provides immediate contact with University support systems.
- In your first year, you are allocated a Personal Tutor (a member of staff familiar with your degree). You will see your Tutor at regular intervals to discuss progress and life in general.
- Module leaders and Programme leaders also give support on academic matters, and advice about other specialist help available through the University.
- The School also has a Help Desk to provide administrative assistance and advise how to get the right help.
- Internet homepages are used by many staff to support their teaching and your learning.
- Lecture and practical files, quizzes, mark summaries and much more are now available for several modules via UELPlus Online Programme links.
Throughout the programme you will find a number of scheduled support activities devoted to specific aspects e.g. how to write your project report, or more general aspects such as careers.
Admission
For students entering with AS/A2 qualification, the minimum requirement is 240 points at A2 level with a preferred minimum of 100 A2 points in Biology or Chemistry.
We also accept Access to Science, Advanced GNVQ in Science at merit grade, and BTEC National Diploma in Science with a minimum of 6 modules at merit grade or higher. All students should also have a minimum of grade C at GCSE, or equivalent, in English language, mathematics and double science.
Applicants with overseas or alternative qualifications are considered on an individual basis. For mature students, credit may be given for relevant work experience.
How to apply
The BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Studies programme is listed under course code B200 on the UCAS website. You can find more information and apply for this programme at www.ucas.com
Key facts
You can start many programmes in either September or February and applications are simple to make. Click below to:
Apply online Pharmaceutical Science (BSc (Hons))
