MPharm Pharmacy with Preparatory Year

5 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Kent

Program Overview

Aston University's MPharm Pharmacy program offers a comprehensive education designed to prepare students for a professional career in pharmacy. The curriculum integrates theoretical knowledge with practical experience, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to meet the challenges of modern pharmacy practice.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations of Pharmacy Practice

In the first year, students are introduced to the fundamental concepts of pharmaceutical science, including the process of discovering, designing, and formulating drugs. Modules such as "Pharmaceutical Sciences" and "Pharmacy Practice" lay the groundwork for understanding the role of pharmacists in healthcare. Students also begin to develop essential skills in communication and professional practice.

Year 2: Clinical Application and Patient Care

The second year focuses on the clinical aspects of pharmacy, emphasizing patient care and the application of pharmacological principles. Modules like "Clinical Pharmacy" and "Pharmacology" deepen students' understanding of drug actions and interactions. Students also explore pharmacy law and ethics, preparing them for the professional responsibilities of a pharmacist.

Year 3: Advanced Pharmacy Practice and Research

In the third year, students engage in advanced clinical pharmacy practice, tackling complex patient scenarios. The "Advanced Clinical Pharmacy" module challenges students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings. Additionally, students undertake a research project, contributing to the field of pharmaceutical sciences.

Year 4: Integration and Preparation for Practice

The final year integrates learning from previous years, focusing on preparing students for professional practice. Modules such as "Integrated Pharmacy Practice" and "Preparation for Foundation Training" ensure students are ready to transition into the workplace. Students also complete an independent research project, demonstrating their ability to conduct research in pharmaceutical sciences.

Focus Areas: Clinical pharmacy, patient care, pharmaceutical research, professional practice.

Learning Outcomes: Clinical decision-making, patient communication, pharmaceutical research skills, professional ethics.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): Accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).

Reputation (Employability Rankings): Aston University is recognized for excellence in pharmacy education and research.

 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Aston University's MPharm Pharmacy program offers an immersive learning experience that combines academic rigor with practical application. Students gain hands-on experience through state-of-the-art facilities, industry partnerships, and innovative teaching methods, preparing them for real-world pharmacy practice.

Key experiential learning components include:

  • £3.3 Million Pharmacy Teaching Laboratories: Opened in 2024, these laboratories accommodate up to 83 students and feature accessible benches, noise-cancelling audiovisual systems, and advanced pharmaceutical equipment.

  • Wilson Pharmacy Suite: Equipped with a mock hospital bay, dispensing and patient counselling suites, and discrete video recording capabilities, this suite provides realistic clinical settings for student practice.

  • Generative AI Simulation Software: Introduced to train students in common situations they will encounter in pharmacy practice, enhancing decision-making and problem-solving skills. 

  • Clinical Trial Simulation Software: Industry-standard tools like Simcyp and WinNonlin are used to simulate clinical trials, allowing students to understand drug interactions and pharmacokinetics. 

  • Research Opportunities: Students have access to the Pharmaceutical and Clinical Pharmacy Research Group, focusing on medicine optimization and management for diverse populations. 

  • Industry Placements: The program offers extensive patient contact through work-based learning within hospitals, pharmacies, GP surgeries, and pharmaceutical companies

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Aston University's MPharm Pharmacy program are well-prepared for a range of careers in the pharmaceutical field. The program's comprehensive curriculum, combined with extensive practical experience, equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to excel in various roles within healthcare and the pharmaceutical industry.

Typical career paths for graduates include:

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

  • Hospital Pharmacist: Working within hospital settings to manage and dispense medications to patients.

  • Clinical Research Associate: Conducting research to develop new medications and therapies.

  • Pharmaceutical Industry Professional: Engaging in roles related to drug development, regulatory affairs, or marketing within pharmaceutical companies.

Aston University supports students' career aspirations through:

  • Award-Winning Careers and Placements Service: Providing guidance and resources to help students secure employment opportunities.

  • Extensive Professional Experience: Offering placements in hospitals, community pharmacies, GP surgeries, and pharmaceutical companies to gain practical experience.

  • Student Societies: The Aston Pharmacy Association offers networking opportunities and events to connect with professionals in the field.

Graduates of the MPharm program have strong employment prospects, with many securing roles in various sectors of pharmacy practice. The program's accreditation by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) ensures that graduates meet the professional standards required for practice in the UK.

Further Academic Progression:

After completing the MPharm Pharmacy program, graduates can pursue further studies to enhance their expertise and career prospects. Options include:

  • Foundation Training Year: A one-year, post-graduation training program required to become a UK-registered pharmacist.

  • Postgraduate Studies: Pursuing specialized postgraduate degrees in areas such as clinical pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, or public health.

  • Independent Prescribing Qualification: Further training to become an independent prescriber, allowing pharmacists to prescribe medications within their scope of practice.

These pathways offer opportunities for career advancement and specialization within the field of pharmacy.

 

Program Key Stats

£N/A
Sept Intake : 1st Sep


Yes
Yes

Eligibility Criteria

DDD
N/A
34
N/A

N/A
N/A
6.0
N/A
No

Additional Information & Requirements

Career Options

  • Pharmaceutical & Biotechnology Industry
  • International Healthcare Policy & NGO
  • Médecins Sans Frontières
  • EU/UN Health Agencies
  • Academic & Clinical Research
  • Regulatory Bodies
  • Medical Communications & Health Journalism
  • Science Diplomacy & International Relations
  • Teaching & Education
  • and Corporate Roles

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