Pharmacology is the study of drug action and how medicines may modify disease states. A pharmacology degree in the UK will provide you with a sound understanding of the biological action of drugs and other biomolecules at the tissue, cellular and sub-cellular levels and their use in medicines for the treatment of disease.
The UK is a leading destination known for its excellent education and research opportunities. Learn more about the best UK universities for pharmacology below (Guardian University Guide 2023) and begin your application by arranging a free consultation today.
Top 10 Universities to Study Pharmacology in the UK
1. Ulster University
The MSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences at Ulster aims to offer a challenging and relevant education in theoretical and practical pharmaceutical sciences. Students gain up-to-date knowledge and understanding of drug discovery, development, formulation, and quality assurance.
As MSc students, participants learn to formulate hypotheses, conduct research projects, analyse data, and present findings to peers. The programme equips graduates with the necessary skills to contribute to the pharmaceutical and related industries in Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and Great Britain, positively impacting healthcare and medicine.
- Course to consider: Pharmaceutical Sciences - MSc
- Entry requirements: A honours degree in subjects such as pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, pharmacology, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, biomedical sciences or in a course with significant amounts of chemistry and biology.
- International fees: £15,840
2. University of Lincoln
The BSc (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Science at the University of Lincoln provides a comprehensive drug discovery, development, and management education. It aims to produce passionate pharmaceutical scientists equipped to tackle future healthcare challenges and excel in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.
The curriculum integrates lectures, seminars, laboratory work, and guest lectures from industry experts. Optional placements and research opportunities enhance the practical experience, while industry connections offer valuable insights. The course empowers students to apply their knowledge and skills to address real-world healthcare needs effectively.
- Course to consider: 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 to include higher level grade 4 in biology, chemistry or physics.
- International fees: £16,200
3. St George's University of London
The Clinical Pharmacology degree at St George's is a unique and holistic programme, encompassing the entire drug development process, from understanding disease to treating patients. It integrates clinical and fundamental sciences, emphasising practical skills and real-life applications. Collaboratively designed with industry, the course hones essential skills like leadership, communication, and teamwork, ensuring students are job-ready from the start.
- Course to consider: BSc Clinical Pharmacology
- Entry requirements: A-level: BBB. International Baccalaureate: Overall score of 32 and 15 points at Higher Level, including a minimum grade 5 in biology or chemistry.
- International fees: £19,250
4. University of Portsmouth
The BSc (Hons) Pharmacology at Portsmouth offers a journey into the world of drug research and its impact on living systems. With access to cutting-edge labs and alongside esteemed researchers, you'll explore how drugs affect the body and study diseases like Cancer, Alzheimer's, and Asthma.Gaining practical experience through work placements and summer research opportunities, you'll be well-prepared for a rewarding career in drug development, medical writing, regulatory affairs, or pharmaceutical marketing.
- Course to consider: Pharmacology BSc Hons
- Entry requirements: ABB-BBC in A levels, with biology or chemistry and another science subject or mathematics. International Baccalaureate score of 31.
- International fees: £18,900
5. Nottingham Trent University
The BSc (Hons) Pharmacology degree at NTU offers practical and industry-focused learning, delving into the science of drugs and their effects on living systems. Students gain a deep understanding of the drug discovery process through hands-on practical classes and industry guest lectures. NTU's unique skills portfolio allows students to document their mastered techniques, enhancing employability. The course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, ensuring its relevance and value to the industry.
- Course to consider: Pharmacology BSc (Hons)
- Entry requirements: 112 - 120 UCAS Tariff points from up to four qualifications, including A-level equivalent biology grade C.
- International fees: 16,500
6. Queen's University Belfast
The BSc in Pharmaceutical Science at Queen's Belfast offers an engaging and dynamic curriculum covering the scientific aspects of drug development. Students encounter innovative teaching methods and gain practical experience through work-related opportunities, including placements. The degree, developed with input from the pharmaceutical industry, covers diverse topics such as pharmaceutical microbiology, chemistry, drug formulation, and drug analysis.
- Course to consider: 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: £23,100
7. University of Glasgow
The MSc in Clinical Pharmacology degree at the University of Glasgow is a comprehensive postgraduate MSc that provides in-depth coverage of clinical pharmacology, empowering students to make informed career choices in this field. The course offers practical experience in molecular methods and genomic analysis, enabling personalised patient care planning. Accredited by the Royal Society of biology, the programme covers key topics such as pharmacogenomics, drug disposition, medical statistics, and pharmaceutical medicine.
- Course to consider: MSc in Clinical Pharmacology
- Entry requirements: A 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent in your subject.
- International fees: £27,930
8. Cardiff University
The Medical Pharmacology degree at Cardiff provides a comprehensive understanding of how drugs and medicines work at cellular levels to treat human diseases. This programme equips students with valuable skills sought after by academia and industries in biomedical research and product development. The option of a Professional Placement Year enhances the practical experience. Graduates can pursue postgraduate training in biomedical research, and work in the pharmaceutical industry, or other biomedical fields.
- Course to consider: Medical Pharmacology (BSc)
- Entry requirements: A level - AAB-ABB. Must include chemistry and one other science subject from biology, maths, physics, or statistics. International Baccalaureate 34-32 overall or 666-665 in 3 HL subjects.
- International fees: £25,450
9. University of Bradford
The Cancer Pharmacology MSc at Bradford offers a cutting-edge and specialised course in modern cancer pharmacology, catering to the growing demand for cancer medicine and therapy experts. The course promotes advanced scholarship, equips students with essential transferable skills, and provides hands-on research experience. Through lectures, workshops, practicals, and individual tutorials, students gain in-depth knowledge and research techniques necessary for cancer research. The MSc research project enables students to join research teams and contribute to the forefront of cancer therapeutics.
- Course to consider: MSc Cancer Pharmacology
- Entry requirements: An undergraduate honours qualification (minimum 2: 2) or equivalent in a scientific discipline, usually within chemistry, biology, pharmacy, biomedicine, or related fields.
- International fees: £23,028
10. University of Sunderland
The University of Sunderland offers an engaging Pharmacy MPharm programme that covers fundamental principles of pharmaceutical chemistry, anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and microbiology. Students gain insights into professional pharmacy practice, legal and ethical aspects, and patient-focused case studies. The course emphasises clinical management of cardiovascular, renal, respiratory, and gastrointestinal diseases, integrating scientific principles with patient care.
- Course to consider: Pharmacy MPharm
- Entry requirements: A Levels include chemistry and one other science subject at Grade B or above, excluding general studies
- International fees: £14,000
Study Pharmacology in the UK
If you want to study Pharmacology in the UK, arrange your free consultation today.
Pharmacology Degree FAQ
What are the admission requirements for pharmacology?
Aspiring students should have completed A-levels or equivalent qualifications in subjects like biology and chemistry. Universities may also consider factors such as a personal statement and interviews to assess the candidate's passion and dedication towards this field of study.
What is the highest salary in pharmacology?
In the United Kingdom, pharmacologists earn an average annual pharmacology salary of £42,353 or £21.72 per hour. The starting salary for entry-level positions is around £37,118 per year, while seasoned and experienced professionals earn up to £64,312 per year.
What is the scope of a pharmacology career?
Graduates can find themselves working in pharmaceutical companies, research institutions, regulatory bodies, and healthcare settings. From drug discovery to clinical trials, pharmacovigilance to patient care, the scope is vast, allowing professionals to make meaningful contributions to healthcare advancements and improved patient outcomes.
What are the benefits of studying pharmacology?
Students acquire critical analytical and research skills besides gaining a profound understanding of drug mechanisms and effects. These skills are highly valued in various industries, providing graduates with excellent career prospects and pharmacology job stability.
Why do I choose to study pharmacology?
Embarking on a journey to study pharmacology can be incredibly compelling for individuals genuinely curious about how drugs interact with the human body. The prospect of delving into cutting-edge research, deciphering complex pharmacological processes, and understanding the intricacies of drug development can be truly captivating.
My consultant was very helpful and motivating. She helped me every step of the way, even when the deadline was so close. I feel I could not have done it without her. I'd highly recommend this service to any and all of my many friends interested. 
.jpg)
