MSci Pharmacology and Drug Discovery

Students don’t just learn theory in lecture halls; you’ll gain practical skills from early years through to the final big project. You use real labs, learn techniques in drug discovery, and by the end you’re working on research alongside faculty. Here are the specific experiential parts:

• Advanced Pharmacology module at Level 7: uses eight work-packages, workshops, hands-on labs, independent preparatory work and assessments. 

• Practical lab sessions throughout, in biology, molecular biology, physiology, and pharmacology. 

• Extended research project in the final year embedded in active research groups. 

• Flexible module choices so you can tailor your learning (e.g. modules from other faculties) and broaden experience. 

• Field trips and external experiences (examples include sites like New Forest or overseas where available) to understand ecological / applied aspects related to pharm/biology

Graduates of this MSci leave well-positioned for high-level roles. Because of your lab experience, research training, and advanced modules, you could step into roles such as pharmaceutical researcher, drug discovery scientist, regulatory affairs, clinical trials coordinator, or even roles in science communication.

Here are what you get in support and outcomes:

• University services for employment: Southampton has a dedicated Careers & Employability service; connections with research groups; support for students in finding placements. 

• Employment stats & salary figures: ~90% of pharmacology graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduation. Average earnings around £28,000 (for subjects allied to medicine) for many graduates in that timeframe. 

• University–industry partnerships: Opportunities for industrial placement years; collaboration with external companies via research projects; use of Southampton’s Life Sciences building that supports current research in drug discovery. 

• Long-term accreditation value: Because you get up to Level 7 training and hands-on lab/research experience, your qualification is strong for postgraduate studies (MSc / PhD) and roles in R&D that value research credibility.

• Graduation outcomes: Many graduates go into research jobs, postgraduate study, biotech/pharma, neuroscience roles; some in media/science policy/scientific consultancy. Southampton indicates good post-graduation statistics. 

Further Academic Progression:
After this MSci, you could:

• Pursue a PhD in pharmacology, drug discovery, neuroscience or related fields if you want to lead your own research.

• Do a taught Master’s specialising in regulatory science, medicinal chemistry, translational pharmacology, or industry-oriented drug development.

• Move into specialist roles (e.g., clinical trials, regulatory affairs) or leadership roles in biotech/pharma, where advanced degree and research experience are important.