COURSE CURRICULUM

The Pharmacology BSc (Hons) is a four-year science degree focused on how drugs interact with the human body and how medicines are discovered, developed, tested and applied in healthcare. The course begins with a strong foundation in biology, chemistry, physics and mathematics, alongside laboratory safety and transferable scientific skills, building core knowledge of living systems and scientific methods. In Year 1 and 2, students study key areas such as biochemistry, genetics, microbiology, anatomy and physiology, organic chemistry, analytical techniques and statistics, while also gaining an introduction to pharmacology, including how drugs act in the body and how the body processes them. As the course progresses, students move into more specialised pharmacology topics such as molecular pharmacology, drug action, chemical signalling, pharmaceutical sciences and experimental techniques, supported by practical laboratory work. Year 3 includes advanced pharmacology modules and a major work placement in a professional laboratory or industry setting, providing real-world experience in regulated environments such as GMP or GLP facilities. The final year focuses on specialised areas including toxicology, neuropharmacology, anti-infective and cancer drugs, and disease-based pharmacology, alongside research methods and an independent research project. Graduates develop strong analytical, laboratory and problem-solving skills, preparing them for careers in pharmaceutical research, clinical development, biotechnology, toxicology and further postgraduate study in biomedical and pharmaceutical sciences.