The Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) at Aston University is a comprehensive, General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)-accredited program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to become competent pharmacists. The curriculum integrates theoretical learning with extensive practical experience, preparing graduates for various roles in healthcare settings.
Curriculum Structure:
Year 1: Foundation in Pharmacy Practice
The first year establishes a solid foundation in pharmaceutical sciences and professional practice. Modules include:
Pharmaceutical Sciences: Understanding the chemical and biological aspects of drugs.
Pharmacy Practice: Introduction to professional roles and responsibilities.
Medicinal Chemistry: Study of drug design and development.
Year 2: Clinical Application and Patient Care
The second year focuses on applying knowledge to clinical scenarios and patient care. Modules include:
Clinical Pharmacy: Application of pharmacological principles in patient care.
Pharmacology: Study of drug actions and interactions.
Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Understanding legal and ethical considerations in pharmacy practice.
Year 3: Advanced Pharmacy Practice and Research
The third year emphasizes advanced pharmacy practice and research skills. Modules include:
Advanced Clinical Pharmacy: In-depth study of complex clinical scenarios.
Pharmaceutical Research: Conducting research in pharmaceutical sciences.
Professional Development: Preparing for the transition to professional practice.
Year 4: Integration and Preparation for Practice
The final year integrates all learning and prepares students for professional practice. Modules include:
Integrated Pharmacy Practice: Application of knowledge in real-world settings.
Research Project: Conducting an independent research project.
Preparation for Foundation Training: Preparing for the one-year Foundation Training required to become a UK-registered pharmacist.
Focus Areas: Clinical pharmacy, patient care, pharmaceutical research, professional practice.
Learning Outcomes: Clinical decision-making, patient communication, pharmaceutical research skills, professional ethics.
At Aston University, the MPharm Pharmacy program offers a dynamic blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, ensuring students are well-prepared for careers in pharmacy. The curriculum is designed to provide hands-on learning opportunities, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities and innovative technologies.
Students engage in various practical experiences, including laboratory sessions, clinical placements, and simulations, to develop essential skills in pharmaceutical sciences and patient care. The program emphasizes real-world applications, preparing graduates for the challenges of modern pharmacy practice.
Key Experiential Learning Components:
New £3.3m Pharmacy Teaching Laboratories: Opened in September 2024, these state-of-the-art facilities accommodate up to 83 students and include accessible features such as height-adjustable benches and noise-cancelling audiovisual systems.
Asepsis Suite and Technician Prep Room: Designed for the preparation of drugs, including chemotherapy and cytotoxic drugs, providing students with hands-on experience in a controlled environment.
Generative AI Simulation Software: Introduced to train students in common situations they will encounter in pharmacy practice, enhancing decision-making and problem-solving skills.
Research Opportunities: Access to the Pharmaceutical and Clinical Pharmacy Research Group, focusing on medicine optimization and management for diverse populations.
Clinical Placements: Opportunities to apply theoretical knowledge in real-world settings, gaining practical experience in various pharmacy environments.
These components collectively ensure that students receive a comprehensive education, blending academic learning with practical experience to prepare them for successful careers in pharmacy.
At Aston University, the MPharm Pharmacy program offers a dynamic blend of theoretical knowledge and practical experience, ensuring students are well-prepared for careers in pharmacy. The curriculum is designed to provide hands-on learning opportunities, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities and innovative technologies.
Graduates of Aston University's MPharm Pharmacy program are well-equipped to embark on diverse and rewarding careers in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. The program's comprehensive curriculum and practical training prepare students for roles such as:
Community Pharmacist: Providing medication advice and healthcare services to the public.
Hospital Pharmacist: Collaborating with medical teams to ensure optimal medication therapy for patients.
Clinical Research Associate: Conducting studies to evaluate new pharmaceuticals and therapies.
Pharmaceutical Industry Professional: Engaging in drug development, regulatory affairs, or sales within the industry.
Aston University supports students in transitioning from academic study to professional practice through various services and opportunities:
Careers and Placements Service: Offers tailored support including CV workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with pharmaceutical companies such as Proveca provide students with insights into industry practices and potential employment opportunities.
Accreditation: The MPharm program is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), ensuring that graduates meet the professional standards required for pharmacy practice.
Further Academic Progression:
Upon completion of the MPharm program, graduates have the opportunity to pursue further studies in specialized areas such as:
MSc in Pharmaceutical Sciences: Focusing on advanced topics in drug development and delivery.
MSc in Clinical Pharmacy: Emphasizing the clinical aspects of pharmacy practice.
Postgraduate Diplomas in Specialist Areas: Such as psychiatric pharmacy or independent prescribing.
These pathways allow graduates to deepen their expertise and pursue advanced roles within the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.



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