COURSE CURRICULUM

The MSc Psychiatric Pharmacy Practice consists of a single core module, Research Project (60 credits), which forms the entire taught component of the programme and is designed to build advanced research capability within psychiatric pharmacy practice. Delivered by Aston University, this module enables students to undertake an in-depth, independent research study focused on the safe, effective and evidence-based use of medicines in mental health care settings. Through the research project, students develop advanced skills in critical analysis, literature evaluation, research design, data interpretation and academic writing, while applying scientific methods to real-world issues in psychiatric pharmacy practice. The module encourages students to explore complex clinical or service-related questions, contributing to improved understanding of medication management, patient outcomes and therapeutic strategies in mental health. It also strengthens professional competencies by fostering evidence-based decision-making and the ability to evaluate current practice against emerging research and guidelines. As the sole 60-credit component required to complete the MSc, it builds on prior postgraduate diploma learning and allows students to progress to a full Master’s qualification by demonstrating high-level independent research ability. Overall, the module is designed to produce reflective, research-active practitioners capable of contributing to the advancement of psychiatric pharmacy through rigorous inquiry, improved clinical practice and enhanced understanding of psychopharmacological care within multidisciplinary mental health services.