BSc Hons Microbiology & Pharmacology

4 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Strathclyde

Program Overview

Strathclyde’s BSc (Hons) Microbiology & Pharmacology is a future-focused degree that blends the science of microbes with the study of how drugs affect the body — ideal for students passionate about disease, medicine, and biotechnology. You’ll explore everything from bacterial genetics to drug development, gaining the skills to tackle global health challenges and innovate in biomedical science.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
You’ll start with a shared biosciences foundation, giving you time to explore before specialising. Core modules include Cells & their Molecules, Organisms & Disease, and Bio-organic Chemistry, all supported by Being a Biomolecular Scientist 1, which builds your lab, data analysis, and communication skills.

Year 2
This year introduces the four key disciplines: Biochemistry, Immunology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology, alongside Being a Biomolecular Scientist 2, which deepens your practical and analytical abilities. You’ll begin to understand microbial physiology, drug-receptor interactions, and the molecular basis of disease.

Year 3
You’ll specialise in Microbiology & Pharmacology, studying topics like Microbial Genetics, Bacterial Physiology, and Drug Action at Receptors. You’ll also explore Cell Signalling, Antimicrobial Resistance, and Bioinformatics, while developing your lab techniques and scientific writing.

Year 4 (Honours Year)
Your final year centres on an independent research project in either microbiology or pharmacology, supported by modules such as Neuropharmacology, Microbial Biotechnology, and Infectious Disease Epidemiology. You’ll also explore Drug Development, Cancer Pharmacology, and Industrial Microbiology, preparing you for careers or further study.

Focus Areas

Microbial genetics, antimicrobial resistance, drug-receptor interactions, neuropharmacology, microbial biotechnology, infection control

Learning Outcomes

Mastery of microbial and pharmacological principles; advanced lab and data analysis skills; ability to conduct and present original research; readiness for careers in biomedical science, pharma, or postgraduate study

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology

Reputation (Employability Rankings)

1st in the UK for Pharmacology & Pharmacy and Subjects Allied to Medicine (Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025)
Scottish University of the Year (Sunday Times Good University Guide 2026)
UK University of the Year (Daily Mail University Awards 2026)

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Strathclyde’s BSc (Hons) Microbiology & Pharmacology is built around hands-on science — from day one, you’ll be working in cutting-edge labs, using industry-standard tools, and learning from active researchers tackling real-world health challenges. Delivered by the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS), the program gives you access to specialist facilities in microbiology and pharmacology, where you’ll master experimental techniques, digital tools, and collaborative research.

Here’s how experiential learning is embedded throughout your degree:

Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS): The program is based in SIPBS, a purpose-built research and teaching hub with advanced labs for microbiology, pharmacology, and molecular biology.
Designated teaching laboratories: You’ll gain hands-on experience in microbial culture, antimicrobial testing, drug-response assays, and molecular diagnostics.
Digital tools and software: Training includes GraphPad Prism for pharmacological data analysis and bioinformatics platforms for microbial genomics and resistance profiling.
Group-based research projects: In Years 3 and 4, you’ll collaborate on experimental design, data interpretation, and scientific reporting — mirroring real lab teamwork.
Independent Honours research project: Final-year students conduct supervised research in areas like antimicrobial resistance, neuropharmacology, or microbial biotechnology, often within SIPBS research groups.
Access to the Andersonian Library: One of Scotland’s largest academic libraries, offering biomedical databases, journals, and tailored study spaces.
Opportunities for study abroad or industry-linked projects: Students may undertake research placements or exchanges through Strathclyde’s global partnerships.
Close links with NHS and biotech industry: These partnerships inform teaching and open doors to internships, guest lectures, and collaborative research.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Strathclyde’s BSc (Hons) Microbiology & Pharmacology are equipped to lead in biomedical science, pharmaceutical research, and public health — with strong career outcomes and global relevance. You’ll be prepared for roles such as clinical microbiologist, pharmacovigilance officer, biomedical researcher, or regulatory affairs associate, with the flexibility to work in industry, healthcare, or academia.

Here’s how Strathclyde supports your future progression:

Careers Service & Employability Hub: Offers tailored support including CV development, interview coaching, and employer networking events, with dedicated advisors for science students.
Industry partnerships: Delivered by the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences (SIPBS), the program benefits from collaborations with GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca, Merck, and NHS Scotland — enhancing teaching and opening doors to internships and research placements.
Graduate employment outcomes: Strathclyde ranks 1st in the UK for Pharmacology & Pharmacy and Subjects Allied to Medicine (Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025).
Accreditation: The degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, which supports eligibility for professional registration and long-term career development.
Graduate destinations: Alumni work in pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, NHS labs, and research institutes, with many progressing to postgraduate study or clinical training.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BSc, students can pursue advanced degrees such as MSc in Microbiology, MSc in Clinical Pharmacology, or PhD in Biomedical Sciences. Strathclyde also offers postgraduate research opportunities within SIPBS, allowing graduates to specialise in areas like antimicrobial resistance, neuropharmacology, or microbial biotechnology.