BSc Hons Pharmacology

3 Years On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Central Lancashire

Program Overview

On this degree you ll study the human body in both normal and altered states, including the development of disease processes. You ll gather a sound understanding of how drugs and medicines can have a beneficial effect on the body and how adverse reactions to pharmaceuticals can arise. If you have an interest in the human body and want to learn more about how the body functions to maintain a stable environment then this is the ideal course for you. It is the perfect route if you want a career in the pharmaceutical industry drug testing, drug research, drug design and development, lab work or other bioscience based careers.

Lancashire’s BSc (Hons) Pharmacology is a hands-on, research-informed degree that explores how drugs interact with the human body — from molecules to whole systems. It’s ideal for students who are curious about drug development, disease treatment, and the science behind how medicines work.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1
You’ll build a strong foundation in biosciences through modules like Fundamentals of Biosciences, Essential Skills in Biosciences, and Biosciences in Practice. These introduce you to molecular biology, scientific communication, and the professional roles within bioscience, while developing your lab and analytical skills.

Year 2
This year deepens your understanding of human physiology and pharmacology. In Physiology and Pharmacology, you’ll study organ systems and how drugs treat disease. Modules like Bioscience Practical Skills and Molecules to Cells focus on experimental techniques, gene regulation, and cellular signaling — preparing you for advanced lab work.

Year 3
You’ll apply your knowledge in a major Research Project, gaining independent lab experience. Modules such as Drug Development, Advanced Therapies, and Neuropharmacology explore clinical trials, cancer treatments, nanotechnology, and the pharmacology of the nervous system — all aligned with current industry needs.

Focus areas

Drug development, pharmacokinetics, neuropharmacology, advanced therapies, molecular biology, disease treatment

Learning outcomes

Experimental design, pharmacological analysis, lab techniques, drug mechanism understanding, scientific communication

Professional alignment (accreditation)

Delivered by the School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences; includes complimentary British Pharmacological Society student membership

Reputation (employability rankings)

Recognised by the Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI) for addressing the UK’s pharmacology skills gap; awarded TEF Silver for teaching excellence

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

Students in Lancashire’s BSc (Hons) Pharmacology gain hands-on experience from day one — working in industry-standard labs, using advanced analytical tools, and applying their skills through research and practical modules. The program is delivered by the School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, which houses cutting-edge facilities and supports real-world learning through every stage of the degree.

Here’s how experiential learning is built into the course:

Practical modules like Biosciences in Practice and Bioscience Practical Skills develop lab techniques in molecular biology, pharmacology, and physiology.
Access to the JB Firth Building, a £14-million purpose-built science facility with modern teaching and research laboratories.
Use of pharmaceutics laboratories and analytical equipment, including tools for drug formulation, pharmacokinetics, and cellular analysis.
Opportunities to conduct an independent Research Project in Year 3, supported by academic supervisors and lab technicians.
Group-based learning and scientific communication training, embedded in modules like Essential Skills in Biosciences.
Complimentary student membership with the British Pharmacological Society, offering access to events, journals, and networking opportunities.
Digital learning tools and online resources provided through the university’s virtual learning environment and library services.

This is a degree designed to prepare you for the lab, the clinic, and the pharmaceutical industry — with the facilities to match.

Progression & Future Opportunities

Graduates of Lancashire’s BSc (Hons) Pharmacology are well-prepared for careers in drug development, clinical trials, biomedical research, and regulatory affairs. Many go on to work as pharmacologists, research scientists, clinical data analysts, or medical science liaisons — applying their expertise across healthcare, biotech, and pharmaceutical sectors.

Here’s how the university supports your future progression:

UCLan Careers Service offers personalised support through CareerEDGE, including CV reviews, mock interviews, and access to internships and employer events.
Graduates from bioscience-related degrees at UCLan earn an average salary of £24,000 within 15 months, according to the latest Graduate Outcomes data.
Industry links through the School of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences include collaborations with NHS trusts, biotech firms, and pharmaceutical companies across the North West.
Accreditation-linked learning includes complimentary student membership with the British Pharmacological Society, supporting professional development and networking.
Graduation outcomes include entry into graduate schemes, research labs, and regulatory bodies such as the MHRA or NICE.

Further Academic Progression:
After completing the BSc, students can progress into MSc or PhD programmes in pharmacology, drug discovery, neuroscience, toxicology, or biomedical science. UCLan offers postgraduate options through its Faculty of Clinical and Biomedical Sciences, including research degrees aligned with industry and NHS priorities.