Guide to Studying Master of Pharmacy in the UK

The UK is one of the most popular destinations in the world for studying for a pharmacy master's degree. Master of pharmacy courses in the UK offer wide-ranging career opportunities with attractive salary packages for general practitioners, doctors, health scientists, and medical nurses.

According to Indeed, the average base salary of pharmacists after MSc pharmacy in the UK is about £46,560 per annum, among the highest in the world. Commonly, the MPharm Pharmacy course duration in the UK is 1-2 years, with some institutes offering three-year postgraduate pharmacy programmes. After completing the course, students undergo a one-year training period to craft their clinical skills further.

If you are considering studying for a master of pharmacy in the UK, find the top five ranked pharmacy & pharmacology institutes (Guardian University Guide 2024) below and arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London to begin your application.

Top Five UK Universities for Studying Master of Pharmacy

Below is the list of the top-ranked UK universities for studying for a master of pharmacy, according to the Guardian University Guide 2024.

1. University of Lincoln

The School of Pharmacy at the University of Lincoln aims to cultivate aspiring pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists equipped to tackle healthcare challenges in the 2020s and beyond. Students engage with industry professionals globally through research opportunities, focusing on drug discovery, design and delivery, and clinical pharmacy and practice. 

Students can access specialised laboratory facilities, training programmes, and industry collaborations. With strong ties to healthcare research units and interdisciplinary collaboration, the school promotes a supportive research environment, emphasising publication and conference participation. The MSc by Research Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences programme offers tailored supervision and opportunities for international placements.

• Suggested course: MSc by Research Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Entry requirements: First or upper second class honours degree or a Master's in a relevant subject.
• International fee: £17,700

2. Ulster University

Ulster University defines its Pharmacy department as the marriage of “modern and innovative teaching with state-of-the-art facilities” reflected in the university’s extensive course curricula. The Master of Pharmacy with Honours at Ulster aims to offer academically challenging and vocationally relevant education.

Ulster is a leading provider of postgraduate education, offering a suite of innovative programmes across four campuses in Belfast, Coleraine, Jordanstown and Magee.

• Suggested course: MPharm (Hons)
• Entry requirements: IB diploma: 28 points, with 14 points at Higher Level, including 6 points in Higher Level Chemistry and 7 points from Higher Level Physics, Biology, or Mathematics.
• International fee: £16,320

3. University of Portsmouth

The accredited MPharm (Hons) Pharmacy degree at the University of Portsmouth provides extensive training in modern drug technology, supervised by GPhC-registered pharmacists. Students gain hands-on experience with patients and the public through placements, preparing for independent prescribing. 

Upon graduation, completing a foundation training year and passing the GPhC registration assessment will lead to registration as a pharmacist. Career paths include drug development and formulation, as well as clinical trials. Course highlights include learning from experienced pharmacists, practical training in various healthcare settings, and support for post-graduation foundation training.

• Suggested course: Pharmacy MPharm (Hons)
• Entry requirements: A levels - ABB-BBB. International Baccalaureate - 29-30. 
• International fee: £19,200

4. University of Leeds

The Pharmacy Practice MSc at the University of Leeds offers an all-around three-year programme. In the first year, students develop foundational patient care and communication skills. Year two focuses on specialised care delivery and service improvement, with optional modules including independent prescribing. 

The final year emphasises research skills and dissertation projects, promoting evidence-based medicine optimisation. Students engage in authentic assessments based on practice experiences when collaborating with academics and supervisors. The programme, part of the Faculty of Medicine and Health, ensures high-quality education and research, enhancing healthcare practice.

• Suggested course: Pharmacy Practice MSc
• Entry requirements: A bachelor's degree with a 2:1 (Hons) in pharmacy.
• International fee: £13,500

5. University of Glasgow

The MSc (MedSci) Clinical Pharmacology at the University of Glasgow offers an in-depth understanding of clinical pharmacology, preparing students for better career prospects. Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, the programme covers molecular methods, pharmacogenetics, and drug therapy. Students take part in discussions on therapeutic issues and undertake research projects under expert supervision. 

With input from clinical academics and industry professionals, the curriculum emphasises practical skills and prepares students for senior roles in pharmaceutical medicine. Core courses include pharmacogenomics, drug disposition, and medical statistics.

• Suggested course: MSc (MedSci) Clinical Pharmacology
• Entry requirements: A 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent in a related subject.
• International fee: £31,860

Study Master of Pharmacy in the UK

If you are interested in applying for an MSc in pharmaceutical science in the UK and need more questions answered, arrange a free consultation with SI-UK London today.

FAQ

What qualifications do I need to study for a master of pharmacy in the UK?

Qualifications required to study for a Master of Pharmacy course in the UK typically include A-levels or equivalent qualifications in subjects such as Chemistry and Biology.

How long does it take to get a master of pharmacy in the UK?

In the UK, a Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) programme typically takes four years for undergraduate students to complete. However, some universities offer accelerated programmes that can be completed in three years for graduates with a relevant degree.

How much do you make with a master's in pharmaceutical sciences in the UK?

According to data from the UK government's National Careers Service, pharmacists in the UK earn an average salary of £32,000 to £40,000 per year. However, salaries can be higher for individuals in managerial or specialised roles within the pharmaceutical industry.

Which universities in the UK have the highest acceptance rate for master of pharmacy?

UK universities with high acceptance rates for master of pharmacy programmes include the University of Liverpool, University College London, and the University of Lincoln.