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The MPharm (Hons) Pharmacy program at Swansea University is a four-year, full-time integrated master's degree designed to prepare students for a rewarding career in pharmacy. The curriculum combines fundamental and complex scientific principles with practical applications, reflecting the way pharmacists approach patient care. Students will gain a clear understanding of the practice of pharmacy, encompassing areas such as pharmaceutics, pharmacology, clinical therapies, and pharmacy practice. Swansea University
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Foundations of Pharmacy Practice
In the first year, students build a solid foundation in pharmacy practice, focusing on the fundamental scientific principles that underpin the profession. Core modules include:
Pharmaceutics: Introduction to the science of dosage form design and drug delivery systems.
Pharmacology: Study of the effects of drugs on the human body.
Chemistry for Pharmacy: Fundamentals of organic and inorganic chemistry relevant to pharmacy.
Practical sessions complement theoretical learning, providing hands-on experience in laboratory techniques and pharmaceutical calculations.
Year 2: Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics
The second year delves deeper into clinical pharmacy and therapeutics, focusing on the application of pharmaceutical knowledge in patient care. Key modules include:
Clinical Pharmacy Practice: Development of skills in patient assessment and medication management.
Therapeutics: Study of the use of drugs in the treatment of various diseases and conditions.
Pharmacy Law and Ethics: Understanding of the legal and ethical frameworks governing pharmacy practice.
Students continue to develop their clinical skills through practical sessions and case-based learning.
Year 3: Advanced Pharmacy Practice
In the third year, students specialize in advanced pharmacy practice, focusing on areas such as:
Advanced Therapeutics: In-depth study of complex therapeutic areas and treatment strategies.
Pharmaceutical Care: Development of skills in providing patient-centered care.
Research Methods in Pharmacy: Introduction to research methodologies and critical appraisal skills.
Students undertake a research project, allowing them to apply their knowledge to real-world problems.
Year 4: Professional Practice and Dissertation
The final year focuses on professional practice and independent research. Modules include:
Professional Practice: Preparation for entry into the pharmacy profession, including pre-registration training.
Dissertation: Independent research project in a chosen area of pharmacy practice.
Advanced Clinical Practice: Further development of clinical skills in preparation for professional practice.
This year emphasizes critical thinking, problem-solving, and the application of knowledge to real-world challenges.
Focus Areas
Pharmaceutics and Drug Delivery Systems
Pharmacology and Therapeutics
Clinical Pharmacy Practice
Pharmacy Law and Ethics
Research Methods in Pharmacy
Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the MPharm (Hons) Pharmacy program will be equipped to:
Apply advanced knowledge of pharmaceutical sciences to patient care.
Conduct independent research and critically analyze scientific data.
Communicate effectively with patients and healthcare professionals.
Demonstrate professional and ethical behavior in pharmacy practice.
Professional Alignment
The MPharm (Hons) Pharmacy program is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), ensuring that graduates meet the professional standards required for registration as a pharmacist in the UK. The program also aligns with the NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework, preparing students for careers in the public healthcare sector.
Reputation
Swansea University is renowned for its research excellence and strong links with the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries. The Swansea University Medical School is recognized as a leading center for medical education and research, providing students with access to state-of-the-art facilities and a network of industry professionals.
The MPharm program at Swansea University emphasizes practical, hands-on experience to complement academic learning. From the first year, students engage in laboratory sessions where they learn pharmaceutical calculations, drug formulation techniques, and basic pharmacology experiments. As the course progresses, they tackle clinical case studies, research projects, and group work that simulate real-world pharmacy challenges. The program also provides opportunities for placements in healthcare settings, giving students first-hand exposure to patient care and professional pharmacy practice.
Key experiential opportunities include:
Laboratory Work: Practical sessions covering pharmaceutics, pharmacology, and chemistry techniques to develop essential lab skills.
Research Projects: Independent or group research projects that foster critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific communication.
Clinical Placements: Opportunities to work in hospital and community pharmacies to understand real-world patient care and healthcare systems.
Workshops and Group Projects: Collaborative learning exercises that simulate professional problem-solving and team-based decision-making.
Digital Tools: Training in pharmaceutical software, data analysis tools, and digital patient management systems.
Guest Lectures & Seminars: Insights from industry professionals, researchers, and practicing pharmacists to stay up to date with current trends.
Graduates from the MPharm (Hons) Pharmacy program leave fully equipped to enter the pharmacy profession or pursue further specialization. Many take up roles such as registered pharmacist, clinical pharmacist, hospital pharmacist, or pharmaceutical researcher, benefiting from both the practical experience and professional insights gained during their studies. The integrated approach of labs, research projects, and clinical placements ensures graduates are prepared to contribute immediately in healthcare or pharmaceutical settings.
Here’s how the program supports career development:
Career Services: Swansea’s dedicated careers team offers guidance with CVs, interview preparation, and placement networking to help secure employment.
Employment Stats & Industry Links: Graduates have successfully joined NHS hospitals, community pharmacies, and pharmaceutical companies, often with competitive starting salaries.
University–Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with healthcare providers and pharmaceutical organizations provide placements, projects, and insights into current professional practice.
Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), ensuring graduates meet the professional standards required to register as pharmacists in the UK.
Graduate Outcomes: Some graduates pursue further study such as MSc or PhD programs in pharmacology, clinical pharmacy, or pharmaceutical sciences, enhancing specialization and career prospects.
Further Academic Progression:
Graduates can continue their studies in areas like clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, or drug development. Pursuing an MSc or PhD enables specialization and advanced research opportunities, opening doors to higher-level roles in academia, research, or industry.
ABB-BBB at A-level which must include Chemistry and at least one other STEM subject, i.e. Biology, Physics, Mathematics and PsychologyBTEC level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied or Pharmaceutical Science grade DDD or DDM. Optional relevant Chemistry Units are compulsory (evaluated case by case), otherwise A-level In Chemistry (grade A or B) is requiredGCSE: English minimum Grade C and Maths minimum Grade C Wales (England Pre-2017) or Grade 4 in English and Grade 4 in Maths (England Post-2017)IELTS score of 6.5 (or equivalent) and no less than 6.0 in each componentAmerican: Overall ACT score: 24, with Complete x3 AP exams, with an overall score of 4, 3, 3 and SAT 570 in Mathematics and 610 in Reading & Writing. XII Certificate / Standard XII / HSC / Year 12 certificate From Central & State Boards Overall score: 70% Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology IndustryInternational Healthcare Policy & NGOMédecins Sans FrontièresEU/UN Health AgenciesAcademic & Clinical ResearchRegulatory BodiesMedical Communications & Health JournalismScience Diplomacy & International RelationsTeaching & Educationand Corporate Roles
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Swansea University
