BSc Pharmacology with Foundation

Reading’s BSc Pharmacology with Foundation is designed to build your confidence in the lab and prepare you for real-world science from the very first year. You’ll gain hands-on experience with industry-relevant tools and techniques — from organ bath pharmacology to computer modelling — and progress into advanced research projects as you move through the degree. The program is structured to give you practical insight into how drugs work, how experiments are designed, and how pharmacology supports clinical and regulatory decisions.

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

• Foundation year lab training: You’ll begin developing core lab and data skills in biology, chemistry, and experimental design — preparing you for the demands of degree-level pharmacology.
• Specialist pharmacology labs: In later years, you’ll work with organ bath systems, multicolour flow cytometry, and tissue culture — essential tools for testing drug effects on cells and tissues.
• Digital tools and modelling: You’ll use computer modelling methods and statistical software to simulate drug action and analyse experimental data.
• Independent research project: In your final year, you’ll conduct a supervised research project using advanced tools like real-time PCR and multi-mode microplate readers, often within the School of Pharmacy’s research labs.
• Clinical trial and regulatory insight: You’ll explore how pharmacology supports drug registration, marketing, and clinical trials, giving you a clear view of the pharmaceutical pipeline.
• Libraries and learning spaces: You’ll access the University Library and School of Pharmacy resources, including specialist pharmacology journals, e-books, and quiet study zones.
• Industry-informed curriculum: The program is aligned with the British Pharmacological Society’s core curricula, ensuring your practical skills match employer expectations.

This hands-on, research-led approach ensures you graduate with the technical confidence and scientific insight needed to thrive in pharmacology.

Graduates of Reading’s BSc Pharmacology with Foundation are well-prepared for careers in pharmaceutical research, clinical trials, and regulatory science. Many go on to 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, this four-year pathway builds both scientific confidence and career readiness.

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.