COURSE CURRICULUM

The taught stage of the MSc Drug Delivery programme at Aston University is structured to provide a strong foundation in pharmaceutical science, drug development, and advanced drug delivery technologies through a balanced combination of core scientific principles and applied research skills. Drug Discovery introduces the early stages of the pharmaceutical pipeline, focusing on how potential therapeutic compounds are identified, evaluated, and optimised for further development. Chemotherapy and Selective Toxicity explores how drugs can be designed to target diseased cells while minimising harm to healthy tissues, with a strong emphasis on cancer treatment strategies and the biological basis of drug selectivity. Research Skills develops essential competencies in scientific investigation, including literature review, experimental design, data analysis, and critical evaluation, preparing students for independent research work. Principles of Product Analysis and Validation focuses on the methods used to assess the quality, safety, and effectiveness of pharmaceutical products, including analytical techniques and validation processes used in industry and regulatory environments. Drug Dosage Form Design provides in-depth knowledge of how medicines are formulated into effective dosage forms such as tablets, capsules, injections, and controlled-release systems, with attention to stability, bioavailability, and patient compliance. Drug Delivery and Targeting examines advanced strategies for delivering therapeutic agents to specific sites within the body, including targeted delivery systems, controlled release technologies, and emerging approaches such as nanocarriers and precision medicine techniques. Together, these modules build a comprehensive understanding of how medicines are designed, tested, and delivered, integrating scientific theory with practical laboratory and research experience. The programme equips students with strong analytical, experimental, and problem-solving skills, preparing them for careers in pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, healthcare industries, and further academic study in drug development and related biomedical sciences.