BSc Pharmacology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Reading

Program Overview

Reading’s BSc Pharmacology is a future-focused, lab-intensive degree designed for students who want to understand how drugs work and contribute to life-changing medical research. It suits those with a passion for biology, chemistry, and data — and prepares you for careers in pharmaceutical development, clinical trials, and regulatory science.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Foundations in Drug Action and Biomedical Science
You’ll explore the principles of drug action and molecular targets, alongside essential modules in mathematics, statistics, and experimental design. You’ll also begin developing core lab skills in pharmacology and gain exposure to computer modelling methods used in drug research.

Year 2: Systems Pharmacology and Applied Techniques
This year introduces systems pharmacology, where you’ll study how drugs affect different organs and biological systems. You’ll master tissue culture, organ bath pharmacology, and multicolour flow cytometry, while learning how pharmacology supports clinical trials, marketing, and regulatory approval.

Year 3: Advanced Research and Industry Readiness
You’ll undertake a major research project in collaboration with academic staff, using tools like real-time PCR and multi-mode microplate readers. You’ll also refine your skills in data analysis, scientific writing, and experimental design, preparing for graduate roles or further study.

Focus Areas

Drug action, molecular targets, systems pharmacology, experimental design, clinical trials, pharmacological modelling, and regulatory science.

Learning Outcomes

Design and analyse pharmacological experiments, apply modelling and statistical tools, understand drug development pathways, and communicate scientific findings effectively.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Aligned with the British Pharmacological Society’s core curricula — developed with input from the pharmaceutical industry to meet current employer needs.

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

Top 10 in the UK for Pharmacy and Pharmacology (Daily Mail University Guide 2025)
91% of students said teaching staff are good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2025)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Reading’s BSc Pharmacology is built around hands-on science — from lab-based drug testing to computer modelling and clinical trial simulation. You’ll gain practical experience using advanced equipment and digital tools, work on real-world pharmacological problems, and train in facilities aligned with industry standards. Whether you’re culturing cells or analysing drug responses, you’ll be learning by doing.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded throughout the program:

Pharmacology laboratories: You’ll train in specialist labs equipped for organ bath pharmacology, multicolour flow cytometry, and tissue culture — essential techniques used in drug testing and biomedical research.
Digital modelling and analysis: You’ll use computer modelling methods and statistical software to simulate drug action and interpret pharmacological data.
Research project in final year: You’ll conduct independent research using tools like real-time PCR and multi-mode microplate readers, guided by academic staff in the School of Pharmacy.
Experimental design and data skills: Embedded throughout the course, you’ll learn to design experiments, analyse results, and present findings using industry-standard formats.
Clinical trial simulation: You’ll explore how pharmacology supports marketing, registration, and clinical trials — preparing you for roles in regulatory science and drug development.
Libraries and learning spaces: You’ll access the University Library and School of Pharmacy resources, including pharmacology journals, e-books, and quiet study zones.
Industry-informed curriculum: The program is aligned with the British Pharmacological Society’s core curricula, developed in consultation with pharmaceutical employers.

This practical, research-led approach ensures you graduate with the lab skills, analytical confidence, and professional insight needed to thrive in pharmacology.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Reading’s BSc Pharmacology equips you with the skills and experience to thrive in pharmaceutical research, clinical trials, and regulatory science. Graduates typically progress into roles such as pharmacologist, clinical research associate, regulatory affairs officer, or medical science liaison. With a curriculum shaped by industry needs and aligned to national standards, you’ll be ready to make an impact from day one.

Here’s how Reading supports your future success:

Careers and Placements Team: You’ll benefit from 1:1 career coaching, CV and interview workshops, employer events, and access to placement opportunities through the School of Pharmacy and the university-wide careers service.
Graduate outcomes: The program was developed with input from the pharmaceutical industry, and graduates are equipped for roles in drug development, clinical trials, and regulatory affairs.
Industry partnerships: The course aligns with the British Pharmacological Society’s core curricula, and Reading maintains strong links with biotech firms, CROs, and regulatory bodies.
Accreditation value: While not a route to pharmacist registration, the degree is professionally aligned with BPS standards, ensuring your skills are recognised across the life sciences sector.
Reputation and rankings: Reading ranks in the Top 10 in the UK for Pharmacy and Pharmacology (Daily Mail University Guide 2025), and 91% of students praised teaching quality in the National Student Survey 2025.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing this degree, you can continue into MSc programs in Pharmacology, Drug Discovery, or Clinical Trials, or pursue PhD research in cancer biology, neuroscience, or molecular medicine. Reading also offers postgraduate routes in Regulatory Science, Biomedical Research, and Pharmaceutical Analysis.