Pharmacology BSc

NA On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Nottingham

Program Overview

 

This degree explores how drugs interact with the human body — from medicines and poisons to chemicals in food — making it ideal for students interested in biomedical science, drug development, or clinical research. You’ll study both how drugs affect the body and how the body processes drugs, gaining a strong foundation in physiology, neuroscience, and molecular biology.


Curriculum Structure

Year 1
You’ll begin with a broad introduction to life sciences and pharmacology. Core modules include Anatomy and Physiology, Introduction to Pharmacology, Chemistry of Life, and Principles of Neuroscience. You’ll also develop essential lab and communication skills through Fundamental and Professional Skills for the Life Sciences.

Year 2
Building on your foundation, you’ll explore drug mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, and toxicology. Modules typically cover Systems Pharmacology, Pharmacological Techniques, and Molecular Pharmacology. You’ll gain hands-on lab experience and start applying your knowledge to real-world scenarios.

Year 3
Your final year focuses on advanced topics and independent research. You’ll study Clinical Pharmacology, Neuropharmacology, and Drug Discovery and Development. The year culminates in a research project, where you’ll investigate a pharmacological question under expert supervision.


Focus areas

Pharmacokinetics, drug discovery, neuropharmacology, clinical pharmacology, molecular biology.


Learning outcomes

Understand drug mechanisms, apply lab techniques, analyse pharmacological data, and conduct independent research.


Professional alignment (accreditation)

Delivered by the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, with access to research-led teaching and modern lab facilities on University Park Campus.


Reputation (employability rankings)

  • University Park Campus is one of the UK’s most beautiful and sustainable, winning the Green Flag award annually since 2003.
  • Nottingham is a Russell Group university, recognised globally for research excellence and graduate employability.
  • Graduates pursue careers in pharmaceutical companies, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, and healthcare.

 

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

 

This program is built around practical lab work, research-led teaching, and real-world drug development. From your first year, you’ll work in modern laboratories, explore drug mechanisms, and develop the skills needed for careers in pharmaceutical science, clinical trials, or biomedical research. You’ll also have access to one of the UK’s most beautiful campuses, with state-of-the-art facilities and a strong research culture.

Here’s how you’ll gain practical experience:

  • University Park Campus Laboratories: Conduct experiments in advanced teaching labs designed for pharmacology, physiology, and molecular biology.
  • Pharmacological Techniques Module: Learn how to measure drug responses, analyse pharmacokinetics, and interpret lab data using current tools.
  • Research Project (Final Year): Undertake independent research under expert supervision, applying lab techniques to investigate a pharmacological question.
  • Digital Learning Tools: Use online platforms and scientific databases to support lab work, literature reviews, and data analysis.
  • Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences: Study within a research-intensive environment that connects you to cutting-edge discoveries and clinical applications.
  • Libraries and Study Spaces: Access specialist resources through the George Green Library and Hallward Library, both equipped for life sciences and biomedical research.

 

Progression & Future Opportunities

 

Graduates from this program are well-prepared for careers in pharmaceutical research, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, and healthcare. Typical job roles include Pharmacologist, Clinical Trials Coordinator, Regulatory Affairs Officer, and Biomedical Scientist. You’ll gain the scientific expertise and lab experience needed to thrive in both industry and academic settings — and here’s how Nottingham supports your journey:

  • Careers and Employability Service: Offers tailored support including CV reviews, career planning, employer events, and access to internships and graduate roles through the MyCareer portal.
  • Russell Group Advantage: As a member of the prestigious Russell Group, Nottingham maintains strong links with pharmaceutical companies and research institutions across the UK and internationally.
  • University Park Campus: Home to the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, with modern labs and research-led teaching that enhance graduate readiness.
  • Graduate Outcomes: Students develop advanced lab skills, digital competencies, and independent research experience, supporting strong progression into bioscience and healthcare sectors.
  • Employability Rankings: Nottingham consistently ranks among the UK’s top universities for graduate employability, with strong outcomes in life sciences and biomedical careers.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, students can pursue postgraduate study in pharmacology, neuroscience, drug discovery, or clinical sciences. The final-year research project and advanced modules provide a strong foundation for MSc or PhD-level research, especially within Nottingham’s own graduate programs in biomedical sciences.

 

Program Key Stats

£26,800
£9,535
£ 29
Sept Intake : 14th Jan


11 %

Eligibility Criteria

AAB
N/A
32
84

N/A
N/A
5.5
87

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

Book Free Session with Our Admission Experts

Admission Experts