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Program Overview
The BSc Pharmacology at the University of Bath is a dynamic, hands-on degree designed for students eager to explore how drugs interact with the body and how they can be developed to treat diseases. If you're passionate about science and want to make a real-world impact in health and medicine, this program is for you.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
In your first year, you'll build a strong foundation in pharmacology and related sciences. You'll study:
Fundamentals of pharmacology: health and disease (15 credits) – Understand the normal structure and function of human cells at a molecular, cellular, and tissue level.
Fundamentals of pharmacology: the chemistry of drugs (15 credits) – Explore the fundamental chemical concepts underpinning pharmacology.
Research and scientific skills for pharmacology (20 credits) – Develop essential laboratory and analytical skills for pharmacological research.
Fundamentals of pharmacology: the science of medicines (10 credits) – Learn how drugs are designed and how their properties affect their action in the body.
Year 2
Your second year delves deeper into the mechanisms of drug action and disease processes:
Cardiovascular, renal and PNS pharmacology (15 credits) – Study the physiology, pathology, and pharmacology of the autonomic, renal, and cardiovascular systems.
Central nervous system pharmacology (10 credits) – Explore the properties of synaptic transmitters and pathways in the CNS.
Drug discovery and pharmacokinetics (10 credits) – Understand the processes involved in drug development and how drugs are absorbed, distributed, metabolized, and excreted.
Immunity and immunotherapy (10 credits) – Investigate the mechanisms of infectious diseases and the pharmacology of anti-infective agents.
Molecular Pharmacology (15 credits) – Examine the pathways and mechanisms that regulate cellular activation and function.
Year 3
In your final year, you'll focus on advanced topics and undertake a substantial research project:
Advanced topics and trends in pharmacology (10 credits) – Study recent developments in receptor pharmacology and related technologies.
Final year project (15 credits) – Conduct independent research in a chosen area of pharmacology.
Final year options (35 credits) – Choose from a range of specialized topics to tailor your degree to your interests.
Focus Areas
Drug discovery, molecular pharmacology, disease mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, immunotherapy.
Learning Outcomes
Critical thinking, laboratory research skills, data analysis, scientific communication, understanding of drug action and disease processes.
Professional Alignment
The program is designed to prepare you for careers in pharmaceutical research, drug development, and related fields. It provides a strong foundation for further study or entry into the pharmaceutical industry.
Reputation
The University of Bath is ranked in the Top 10 for Pharmacology and Pharmacy in the Guardian University Guide 2025 and The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025. The program is also recognized for excellent teaching satisfaction and career prospects.
At the University of Bath, the BSc Pharmacology program immerses you in practical, real-world science from day one. You'll work in state-of-the-art laboratories that mirror those found in the pharmaceutical industry, using advanced equipment and techniques to explore how drugs interact with the body. This hands-on approach ensures you're not just learning theory but actively applying it, preparing you for a career in pharmacology or related fields.
Throughout your studies, you'll have access to a range of facilities and opportunities designed to enhance your learning experience:
Graduates of the BSc Pharmacology program at the University of Bath are well-equipped to pursue careers in various sectors, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare, and research. The program's strong emphasis on practical laboratory skills, scientific communication, and data analysis prepares students for roles such as:
Pharmacologist: Conducting research to understand drug actions and developing new therapeutic agents.
Clinical Research Associate: Managing and monitoring clinical trials to assess the efficacy and safety of new treatments.
Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Ensuring that pharmaceutical products comply with all regulations and laws.
Pharmaceutical Scientist: Working in drug development, formulation, and testing within the pharmaceutical industry.
These roles are supported by the university's comprehensive career services and industry connections, which facilitate a smooth transition from academic study to professional employment.
University Support and Opportunities
The University of Bath offers various services and opportunities to enhance employability:
Professional Placement Year: The BSc Pharmacology program includes an optional professional placement year, allowing students to gain practical experience in pharmaceutical companies, research institutes, or healthcare settings.
Career Services: The university provides dedicated career guidance, CV workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals.
Industry Partnerships: Collaborations with leading organizations such as Day Lewis Pharmacy, Johnsons Health, and AB InBev offer students opportunities for placements and projects.
Graduate Employability: According to the Graduate Outcomes Survey, 92% of Bath graduates employed in the UK are in high-skilled employment, surpassing the national average of 73%.
Further Academic Progression
Upon completing the BSc Pharmacology program, graduates have several pathways for further academic study:
MSc in Drug Discovery: A postgraduate program focusing on the advanced aspects of drug development and therapeutic strategies.
PhD in Pharmacology or Related Fields: For those interested in research, pursuing a PhD allows for specialization in areas such as molecular pharmacology, toxicology, or pharmacogenomics.
MSc in Clinical Pharmacy: For graduates aiming to work in clinical settings, this program provides the necessary training and qualifications.
These options enable graduates to deepen their expertise and enhance their career prospects in the pharmacological sciences.
AAB in three A levels including Chemistry and one other science or mathematics subject.University accept the Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales in place of one A level36 points overall and 6, 6, 5 in three Higher Level subjects including Chemistry and a second science or mathematics course.University accept Level 3 Diplomas and Extended Certificates alongside A levels or in combination with each other. You will need qualifications equal to at least three A levels to be consideredPharmacologist: Conducting research to understand drug actions and interactionsClinical Research Associate: Managing and monitoring clinical trials to assess new treatmentsRegulatory Affairs Specialist: Ensuring compliance with regulations governing pharmaceutical productsToxicologist: Studying the effects of chemicals and drugs on living organismsMedical Science Liaison: Acting as a bridge between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare professionalsPharmaceutical Sales Representative: Promoting and selling pharmaceutical products to healthcare providersDrug Safety Officer: Monitoring and evaluating the safety of pharmaceutical productsBiotech Research Scientist: Conducting research in biotechnology to develop new medical treatmentsPharmacovigilance Specialist: Identifyingassessingand preventing adverse effects of drugsPharmaceutical Policy Advisor: Providing guidance on policies related to pharmaceutical regulations and practices
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