Pharmacy and pharmacology studies medicine and chemicals and how drugs are created, composed and dispensed.
The study of pharmacy and pharmacology is popular amongst international students in the UK due to excellent work placement opportunities, state-of-the-art facilities, experienced faculty and world-changing research conducted inside departments.
Do you want to apply to study for a UK pharmacy or pharmacology degree? Arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today to begin your pharmacy UCAS application.
Top Ten UK Universities for Pharmacy
Learn more about the top ten UK universities for pharmacy and pharmacology below (Guardian University Guide 2024).
1. University of Lincoln
The University of Lincoln School of Pharmacy offers the BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science programme, which focuses on various pharmacology, including classical pharmacology, physiology, and cell biology. Placements are encouraged, and graduates have gone on to varied careers across the public and private sectors.
- Course to consider: BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science
- Entry requirements: A Level: BBC, to include a minimum grade C in Biology, Chemistry or Physics. International Baccalaureate: 29 points overall, including Higher Level grade 4 in Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
- International fee: £17,200
2. Ulster University
The School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Ulster University has been ranked the number one UK university for pharmacy and pharmacology in three of the last five years. Students can choose from various undergraduate and postgraduate courses. The Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) offers placements in all years of study to prepare students for their future careers.
- Course to consider: Pharmacy MPharm (Hons)
- Entry requirements: IB 28 points with 14 points at the higher level, including 6 points in higher-level chemistry and 7 points from higher-level physics, biology, or mathematics.
- International fee: £19,130
3. University of Portsmouth
The University of Portsmouth is a modern, multi-disciplinary university offering practical courses at undergraduate, postgraduate and research levels across five faculties, including the Faculty of Science and Health. Teaching at Portsmouth is informed and supported by internationally recognised research, allowing students to explore different aspects of modern pharmacy.
- Course to consider: Pharmacology BSc Hons
- Entry requirements: A levels - BBB-BBC. International Baccalaureate - 29.
- International fee: £18,900
4. University of Leeds
The University of Leeds offers a Pharmacology MBiol programme, focusing on pharmaceutical industry skills to address global challenges like antibiotic resistance, COVID-19, and neurodegenerative diseases. The curriculum covers body systems and various pharmacological areas, such as psychopharmacology, antiviral therapy, and cancer therapy. The programme emphasises workplace readiness through active learning, critical thinking, and research projects. The integrated MBiol includes advanced research training and a specialised research project. Students can transfer from a BSc to an MBiol with suitable academic performance until the end of the second year.
- Course to consider: Pharmacology MBiol
- Entry requirements: International Baccalaureate- 6,6,6 at higher level, including Biology or Chemistry and another science-related subject.
- International fee: £27,500
5. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow's Clinical Pharmacology MSc (MedSci) programme is a unique UK postgraduate offering that delves deeply into clinical pharmacology for students considering it a career. The curriculum includes hands-on molecular methods and genomic literature analysis, facilitating personalised patient care planning. Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, it covers molecular and population genetics in pharmacogenetics and gene therapy. The programme encourages engagement in therapeutic discussions in research settings, involves research projects, and benefits from expert clinical academics and industry lecturers.
- Course to consider: Clinical Pharmacology MSc
- Entry requirements: The programme is open to medical, pharmacy, and bioscience graduates with a 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent.
- International fee: £31,860
6. St George's, University of London
The School of Pharmacy at St George's, University of London, is regularly ranked as one of the top pharmacy schools in the UK. It offers undergraduate, postgraduate and distance learning programmes to international students. The Clinical Pharmacology BSc provides a comprehensive study of applied clinical pharmacology, from the discovery of disease to the development of drugs.
- Course to consider: Clinical Pharmacology BSc
- Entry requirements: A-levels- BBB. GCSEs- Five subjects graded 6 (B) or above.
- International fee: £63,750
7. University of Sunderland
The University of Sunderland offers a four-year Pharmacy course leading to an MPharm degree and professional pharmacist registration, setting it apart in the UK. Beginning with fundamental pharmaceutical and biological sciences, the programme advances into medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutics, therapeutics, and clinical skills. The curriculum integrates patient contact, placements, and interprofessional learning while benefitting from faculty engaged in current practice, providing students with valuable employer connections and up-to-date clinical education.
- Course to consider: Pharmacy MPharm
- Entry requirements: A Levels must include Chemistry and one other science subject at Grade B or above, excluding General Studies.
- International fee: £16,000
8. University of Aberdeen
The University of Aberdeen offers a Pharmacology MSci programme that covers drug properties, modes of action, toxicity, and drug use processes. The programme provides a comprehensive understanding of pharmacology at various levels, focusing on neuropharmacology, cancer, and toxicology. It emphasises research-led teaching to equip students with modern skills for careers in pharmacology. In the fourth year, students complete a one-year industrial placement, graduating with an MSci degree after five years, enhancing employability through practical experience in industrial, commercial, or research settings.
- Course to consider: Pharmacology with Industrial Placement, MSci
- Entry requirements: A-level: A minimum of 3 A-levels at ABB, with A-levels at AB from two science or mathematics subjects. International Baccalaureate: A minimum of 34 points, with 6 points at HL from two science or mathematics subjects.
- International fee: £24,800
9. University College London
University College London offers the accredited Pharmacy MPharm programme, the first step toward becoming a pharmacist in the UK. Graduates must complete a year of foundation training after passing the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) qualifying exams. This programme provides an interdisciplinary perspective on pharmaceutical science, connecting it with pharmacy practice and ethics. It includes patient interactions, placements, and in-house interviews. In the fourth year, students conduct a research project in pharmacy or pharmaceutical science, often in collaboration with NHS or international partners.
- Course to consider: Pharmacy MPharm
- Entry requirements: A-levels- Grades AAB, Subjects Chemistry and either Biology, Mathematics or Physics required.
- International fee: £31,100
10. Queen's University Belfast
Queen's University Belfast offers the MPharm Pharmacy programme, combining chemical and biological sciences with the development and clinical application of medicines. Emphasis is placed on equality, diversity, sustainability, professionalism, and prescribing skills. The course includes experiential learning placements and integrating students into healthcare teams. In Level 1, students explore pharmacy fundamentals. Levels 2 and 3 involve placements and in-depth studies in pharmaceutical technology, clinical pharmacology, and therapeutic practice. In Level 4, students conduct a research project and further develop clinical skills.
- Course to consider: MPharm Pharmacy
- Entry requirements: AAB including A-level Chemistry and at least one other A-level from Biology, Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Biology grade C/4.
- International fee: £25,300
Study Pharmacy in the UK
If you want to study pharmacy or pharmacology in the UK, arrange a free consultation in London today. More information can also be found in our dedicated pharmacy subject guide.
Pharmacy Degree FAQ
What is the best pharmacy course in the UK?
The BSc (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Science by the University of Lincoln is ranked number one in the UK, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.
Is studying pharmacy in the UK hard?
Studying pharmacy in the UK can be challenging, like any other medical field. It requires dedication, hard work, and a strong understanding of science and medicine.
Which exam is required for a UK pharmacist?
To become a pharmacist in the UK, you must pass the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) registration assessment.
Is a UK pharmacy degree valid in the USA?
A UK pharmacy degree might not be automatically valid in the USA. If you want to work as a pharmacist in the USA, you must go through FPGEC Certification, followed by the NAPLEX and MPJE exams.
Which company is best for a pharmacy job?
There isn't one specific "best" company for pharmacy jobs; it depends on your interests and location. Large pharmacy chains in the UK, like CVS, Walgreens, and Boots, are common employers. Hospitals and independent pharmacies also offer opportunities. Choose a workplace that aligns with your career goals.
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