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)
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:
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:
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.



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