Pharmacy MPharm

At the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan), the MPharm Pharmacy program offers a dynamic blend of theoretical knowledge and practical application, ensuring students are well-prepared for the evolving role of a pharmacist. From the outset, students engage in structured placements, collaborative learning with other health professionals, and hands-on experiences in state-of-the-art facilities.

This immersive approach allows students to develop essential skills, including patient interaction, clinical decision-making, and teamwork, all within real-world healthcare settings. Here's how UCLan facilitates this experiential learning journey:

• Pharmacy Practice Suite: A dedicated space designed to simulate real-world pharmacy environments, enabling students to practice dispensing, patient counseling, and other pharmacy-related tasks.

• Clinical Skills Laboratories: Equipped with modern tools and equipment, these labs provide students with the opportunity to develop and refine their clinical skills in a controlled setting.

• Structured Placements: Students undertake placements in various pharmacy and healthcare settings, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world scenarios and gain valuable professional experience.

• Collaborative Learning: The program emphasizes interprofessional education, encouraging students to work alongside other healthcare professionals to enhance their understanding of patient care.

• Patient Interaction: Throughout the program, students engage with patients and their carers, putting patient care at the heart of their learning experience.

• Active Learning Sessions: Incorporating active learning strategies, the program fosters critical thinking and problem-solving skills essential for modern pharmacy practice.

Graduates of the MPharm (Hons) Pharmacy program at the University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) are well-prepared to embark on diverse and rewarding careers in the pharmaceutical sector. The program’s comprehensive curriculum, combined with hands-on experience, ensures that students are equipped to meet the challenges of modern pharmacy practice.

Typical Career Paths:

• Community Pharmacist: Providing medication advice and healthcare services in community settings.

• Hospital Pharmacist: Collaborating with healthcare teams to ensure safe and effective medication use in hospitals.

• Clinical Research Associate: Conducting research to develop and evaluate new pharmaceutical products.

• Pharmaceutical Industry Professional: Engaging in roles related to drug development, quality control, or regulatory affairs.

University Services Supporting Employment:

• Career Services: Offers guidance on job search strategies, CV writing, and interview preparation.

• Placement Opportunities: Provides access to various placement programs to gain practical experience.

• Networking Events: Organizes events connecting students with industry professionals.

• Alumni Network: Facilitates connections with graduates who can offer career advice and opportunities.

Employment Statistics and Salary Figures:

• Average Salary: Graduates from UCLan's MPharm program can expect an average starting salary of approximately £35,000 per year. 

• Employment Rate: A significant percentage of graduates secure employment within six months of graduation.

University–Industry Partnerships:

• NHS Trusts: Collaborations with various NHS Trusts provide students with placement opportunities and exposure to real-world clinical settings.

• Pharmaceutical Companies: Partnerships with industry leaders offer students insights into drug development and regulatory processes.

Long-Term Accreditation Value:

• General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC): The MPharm program is accredited by the GPhC, ensuring that graduates meet the professional standards required to practice as pharmacists in the UK. 

Graduation Outcomes:

• High Employability: Graduates are highly sought after by employers in various sectors of the pharmaceutical industry.

• Professional Recognition: The accredited program provides graduates with the credentials needed for professional practice.

Further Academic Progression:

Upon completing the MPharm Pharmacy program, graduates have several options for further academic advancement:

• Postgraduate Studies: Pursue specialized postgraduate courses in areas such as clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, or healthcare management.

• Doctoral Research: Engage in PhD programs to contribute to research and development in the pharmaceutical field.

• Continuing Professional Development (CPD): Participate in CPD programs to maintain and enhance professional skills and knowledge.