Due to the range of courses available and high-quality teaching and research, the UK is one of the world's best places to study a pharmacology course.
Those with a Bachelor's degree in pharmacology can find roles as junior research scientists, clinical trial coordinators, or regulatory affairs associates, to name a few. Typical starting salaries for Bachelor graduates usually range from £22,000 to £25,000 annually, though this can vary based on location and company. Master's graduates, with their advanced knowledge, are well-suited for roles such as pharmacologists, biotechnologists, or even lab managers. Their enhanced qualifications often bring in higher salaries, with average starting figures from £25,000 to £30,000 and the potential to increase considerably with experience. Some of the top pharmacology recruiters in the UK are:
- GSK (GlaxoSmithKline)
- AstraZeneca
- Pfizer
- NHS (National Health Service)
- MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency)
Learn more about the best-ranking pharmacology courses in the UK (Guardian University Guide 2024) below or book a free consultation with SI-UK India today.
Top 10 Universities for Studying a Pharmacology Course in the UK
Below is the list of the top ten universities in the UK to study pharmacology courses, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.
1. University of Lincoln
The pharmaceutical sciences courses at the University of Lincoln focus on comprehensive drug discovery, development, and management education. The BSc degree in pharmacology aims to equip students with the necessary skills to spearhead transformative changes in healthcare and shine in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors. Dive deep into the intricacies of drug structure, learn about their effects, master research techniques, and uphold the highest regulatory standards.
The curriculum comprises multiple practical sessions and elaborate lectures from industry experts designed to equip students with solid industry connections and knowledge that they can use to address real-world healthcare challenges.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science
- Entry requirements: A Level: BBC, to include a minimum grade C in biology, chemistry or physics (112 UCAS Tariff points from a minimum of 3 A Levels or equivalent). International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall, including higher level grade 4 in biology, chemistry, or physics.
- International fees: £17,200
2. Ulster University
Immerse yourself in cutting-edge teachings encompassing drug discovery, development, and precise formulation while studying MSc Pharmaceutical Sciences at Ulster University. This rigorous course offers a range of diverse elective modules to tailor your expertise. After completing your master's in pharmacology courses from Ulster, you'll formulate astute hypotheses and masterfully manage research projects and discerning data.
- Suggested course: Pharmaceutical Sciences - MSc
- Entry requirements: A honours degree in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacology, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, biomedical sciences or in a course with significant amounts of chemistry and biology.
- International fees: £20,810
3. University of Portsmouth
The University of Portsmouth pharmacology course delves into the impact of drugs on living organisms. With state-of-the-art facilities, you'll enhance your grasp of chemistry and biology, exploring how substances, from painkillers to caffeine, influence the body. While studying for your pharmacology degree at Portsmouth, you will work alongside researchers tackling diseases like cancer, Alzheimer's, and asthma at high-tech laboratories.
- Suggested course: Pharmacology BSc Hons
- Entry requirements: ABB-BBC in A levels, with biology, chemistry, and other science subjects or mathematics. IB score of 31.
- International fees: £19,200
4. University of Leeds
The BSc (Hons) Pharmacology course at the University of Leeds offers a comprehensive scientific foundation and graduate skills essential for careers in pharmacology. Partnering with industry giants like Labcorp and AstraZeneca ensures exposure to real-world insights.
Through hands-on laboratory work and a capstone research project supervised by esteemed academics, students hone experimental skills and stand out in the job market. Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, the programme delves deep into diverse pharmacological areas, preparing graduates for various career paths focusing on practical readiness.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Pharmacology
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 6,6,5 at higher level, including Biology or Chemistry and another science-related subject.
- International fee: £30,250
5. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow’s MSc in Pharmacology degree is among the few UK postgraduate courses that dive deep into clinical pharmacology, positioning you to consider a career in this field. During this course, your practical skills in molecular methods and genomic literature interpretation equip you to devise personalised patient care plans.
Accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology helps you partially fulfil Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol) status criteria. Get equipped with the foundational molecular and population genetics knowledge relevant to pharmacogenetics and gene therapy.
- Suggested course: MSc in Clinical Pharmacology
- Entry requirements: A 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent in your subject.
- International fees: £31,860
6. St George's University
Developed alongside industry experts, the BSc in Clinical Pharmacology at St George equips students for the professional realm, emphasising leadership, communication, and academic honesty. Real-world applications enhance learning through case analyses and hands-on tasks. Students benefit from a six-week industry placement in their second year, courtesy of affiliations with entities like the British Pharmacological Society and leading pharmaceutical firms. Additionally, they undertake a comprehensive six-week research project.
- Suggested course: BSc Clinical Pharmacology
- Entry requirements: A-level: BBB. International Baccalaureate: Overall score of 32 and 15 points at Higher Level, including a minimum grade of 5 in biology or chemistry.
- International fees: £27,750
7. University of Sunderland
The University of Sunderland Pharmacy course starts with a comprehensive foundation in core pharmaceutical and biological sciences. You'll progress into specialised areas such as medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics, therapeutics, clinical management, and patient-centric clinical skills.
This four-year course culminates in a Master of Pharmacy degree. The MPharm remains the sole UK undergraduate pathway to professional pharmacist registration, a crucial profession. Data from the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) consistently ranks the University of Sunderland among the top-tier Pharmacy Schools based on the National Registration Assessment outcomes.
- Suggested course: Pharmacy MPharm
- Entry requirements: A Levels include chemistry and one other science subject at Grade B or above, excluding general studies
- International fees: £16,000
8. University of Aberdeen
The Pharmacology degree at the University of Aberdeen provides a complete understanding of drug properties, actions, and discovery processes. Through research-led courses, students delve into molecular, cellular, and systemic levels of pharmacology, focusing on areas like neuropharmacology and toxicology. Practical laboratory work enhances skills in scientific analysis and presentation.
In the first two years, foundational medical sciences and chemistry courses are complemented by key skill development. The Honours year emphasises an in-depth understanding of pharmacological aspects, including a ten-week research project in university or local research facilities, preparing graduates for diverse pharmacology and related careers.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Pharmacology
- Entry requirements: IB diploma: 32 points, including 5, 5, 5 at HL, with two Mathematics/ Science subjects at HL.
- International fee: £24,800
9. University College London
The BSc (Hons) Pharmacology programme at UCL has a detailed curriculum spanning foundational sciences to specialised pharmacological study. In the first year, students cover essential subjects like chemistry, biochemistry, and cell biology, setting a strong foundation. The second year delves deeper into pharmacology, focusing on medicinal mechanisms and practical experimentation.
Flexibility in module selection allows for tailored study paths, with options for specialisation in areas like neurobiology. The final year emphasises advanced pharmacology options and culminates in a research project, providing valuable hands-on experience and preparing students for diverse career paths or further study opportunities.
- Suggested course: BSc (Hons) Pharmacology
- Entry requirements: IB diploma 36 points. A total of 17 points in three higher-level subjects, including Chemistry.
- International fee: £34,400
10. Queen's University Belfast
The BSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences at Queen's University Belfast aims to mould the forthcoming wave of pharmaceutical scientists skilled in every phase of drug development, working collaboratively in research teams.
While studying for your bachelor's degree in pharmaceutical science at Queen’s, you will dive deep into drug discovery, formulation, and the creation of small molecule medicines while exploring innovative research set to influence future pharmaceutical endeavours. The School of Pharmacy at Queen’s boasts exemplary teaching and a renowned international research reputation. With top-notch facilities, the School is complemented by well-furnished labs spanning pharmaceutical engineering, analytics, molecular biology, advanced microscopy, and microbiology.
- Suggested course: BSc Pharmaceutical Sciences
- Entry requirements: A level - BBB including biology and chemistry + GCSE mathematics grade C/4. International Baccalaureate Diploma - 32 points overall, including 6,5,5 at Higher Level, including chemistry.
- International fees: £25,300
Study Pharmacology in the UK
If you want to study pharmacology in the UK, arrange your free consultation with SI-UK India today.
FAQ
What is pharmacology?
Pharmacology is the branch of science concerned with studying drug action. A drug can be broadly defined as any man-made, natural, or endogenous molecule that exerts a biochemical or physiological effect on a cell, tissue, organ, or organism.
What is the study of pharmacology?
The study of pharmacology revolves around understanding how drugs interact with our bodies and how our bodies respond to those drugs. It explores the sources, chemical properties, biological effects, and therapeutic uses of drugs.
What is the best way to study pharmacology?
The best way to study pharmacology is through theoretical learning and practical experience. This includes attending lectures, reading textbooks, engaging in laboratory experiments, and discussing case studies. Regular revision, using flashcards, mnemonics, and real-world applications, can also be beneficial.
What qualifications do I need to study pharmacology?
To study pharmacology at the undergraduate level, you typically need A-levels or equivalent qualifications, preferably in sciences like biology and chemistry. A relevant bachelor's degree is generally required for postgraduate studies.
Is pharmacology a useful degree?
Pharmacology provides a deep understanding of drug actions and interactions, essential for numerous careers in research, medicine, drug development, regulatory affairs, and more. With the continuous quest for new medicines and understanding of drug effects, skills gained from a pharmacology degree remain in high demand.
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