university of nottingham phd pharmacy

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Pharmacy PhD

University of nottingham, different course options.

• Key information

Course Summary

Tuition fees, entry requirements, university information, similar courses at this uni, key information data source : idp connect, qualification type.

PhD/DPhil - Doctor of Philosophy

Subject areas

Course type.

Research overview

The School of Pharmacy is a world top 5 school two years in a row. Our teaching, learning materials and student support back this incredible ranking.

Joint 1st place in Research Environment with our colleagues from the Faculty Medicine and Health Sciences

Joint 4th in the UK for research quality, with 96% of our research assessed as 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent'

Join us at the forefront of world-changing research that’s both innovative and relevant, working on new therapeutic targets and treatments that will improve the lives of millions of people.

We work with over 30 leading companies across the healthcare sector, including Boots, Evonik, Mars Petcare UK, Promega, SureScreen Diagnostics, Syngenta, Unilever and Widex A/S.

The school has excellent facilities in:

molecular biology

cell culture

mass spectrometry

medicinal chemistry (including our 80,000-compound library)

structural biology

molecular modelling

parasitology and formulation

a high resolution, cryogenic analytical and transfer scanning electron microscope

• we’re here to support you every step of the way.

UK fees Course fees for UK students

For this course (per year)

International fees Course fees for EU and international students

2:1 (or international equivalent) in a relevant subject.

The University of Nottingham is a pioneering institution with a long and distinguished heritage in education. It ranks in the top 20 universities in the UK (Times Higher Education World University Rankings, 2024). It is also a research-intensive university and a member of the prestigious Russell Group of universities, making it a superb place to study for a postgraduate qualification. In addition to being one of the world’s top 100... more

Pharmacy MRes

Full time | 1 year | 23-SEP-24

Pharmacology and Drug Discovery MRes

Full time | 1 year | 01-OCT-24

Pharmacology and Drug Discovery PhD

Full time | 3 years | 01-OCT-24

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University of nottingham: pharmacy phd/mres.

This course is no longer offered.

University of Nottingham currently offers other courses in School of Pharmacy:

• Drug Discovery (2024)
• Drug Discovery MSc (2023)
• Drug Discovery with Industrial Training (2024)
• Pharmacy (2024)

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We have 5 University of Nottingham, School of Pharmacy PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

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University of Nottingham, School of Pharmacy PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships

University of Nottingham

Research that changes lives and shapes the future

Unilever funded PhD Studentship – Evaluating Bacterial Acid Production and pH Dynamics in a Real-Time In-Vitro Polymicrobial Biofilm Model

Phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

This research project has funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Structural biology tools to investigate and target ubiquitin system proteases in cancer

Self-funded phd students only.

This project does not have funding attached. You will need to have your own means of paying fees and living costs and / or seek separate funding from student finance, charities or trusts.

Structure and function of enzyme complexes involved in post-transcriptional gene regulation

Role of btg1 and btg2 in acute lymphocytic leukaemia and diffuse large b-cell lymphoma, discovery and profiling of small-molecule inhibitors of cellular nuclease enzymes.

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Study options.

• International

What will I learn?

Research overview

The School of Pharmacy is a world top 5 school two years in a row. Our teaching, learning materials and student support back this incredible ranking.

Joint 1st place in Research Environment with our colleagues from the Faculty Medicine and Health Sciences

Joint 4th in the UK for research quality, with 96% of our research assessed as 'world-leading' or 'internationally excellent'

Join us at the forefront of world-changing research that’s both innovative and relevant, working on new therapeutic targets and treatments that will improve the lives of millions of people.

We work with over 30 leading companies across the healthcare sector, including Boots, Evonik, Mars Petcare UK, Promega, SureScreen Diagnostics, Syngenta, Unilever and Widex A/S.

The school has excellent facilities in:

molecular biology

cell culture

mass spectrometry

medicinal chemistry (including our 80,000-compound library)

structural biology

molecular modelling

parasitology and formulation

a high resolution, cryogenic analytical and transfer scanning electron microscope

• we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Which department am I in?

Full time (4 years).

Please check with institution

*Price shown is for indicative purposes, please check with institution

Expected August 2025

23 September 2024

University Park Campus

University of Nottingham,

NOTTINGHAM,

NG7 2RJ, England

Entry requirements

For international students.

*There may be different IELTS requirements depending on your chosen course.

About University of Nottingham 19 Reviews

Students can discover a world of extraordinary learning, pioneering research and life-changing experiences at Nottingham, a leading global university.

• Top 20 UK University (QS World University Rankings 2025)
• Top 50 globally for Education (QS Subject 2025)
• Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework
• Outstanding careers support and opportunities

2 pharmacy PhD positions at University of Nottingham

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The Universities for Nottingham and the Centre for Sustainable Chemistry - PhD Scholarships available

-year undergraduate course (or equivalent), in a STEM based subject, which may include: Chemistry, Biochemistry, Physics, Material Science, Natural Sciences, Biotechnology, Pharmacy , Chemical Engineering

PhD Studentship: Novel subsurface Raman microscopy technologies to enable the development of next-generation drug and implant therapies

collaboration between the Biophotonics Group (School of Physics and Astronomy), School of Life Sciences and School of Pharmacy , currently funded by the National Centre for Replacement, Refinement and Reduction

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• Shailesh Natvarbhai Mistry

Shailesh Natvarbhai Mistry University of Nottingham | Notts  ·  Division of Biomolecular Science and Medicinal Chemistry

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• Division of Biomolecular Science and Medicinal Chemistry
• Nottingham, United Kingdom
• Professor (Assistant)

• Department of Medicinal Chemistry
• Melbourne, Australia
• Research Associate

Publications

• Vanderbilt University

• Novira Therapeutics, Doylestown PA

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Pharmacy MPharm (Hons)

Want to know what it's like to study this course at uni? We've got all the key info, from entry requirements to the modules on offer. If that all sounds good, why not check out reviews from real students or even book onto an upcoming open days ?

Different course options

Master of Pharmacy (with Honours) - MPharm (H)

University Park Campus

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Course info

Entry requirements, popular a-level subjects, tuition fees, latest reviews, average salary, £21,000, £19,000, what students say.

A very friendly environment and caring tutors.. Read more

Unique 4 years, great environment, and feel strongly supported, completing a challenging course.. Read more

AAB Grades / Points required

Scottish Higher:

AABBB Grades / Points required

Access to HE Diploma:

D:45 Grades / Points required

International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme:

32 Grades / Points required

Pearson BTEC Extended Diploma (QCF):

Not currently available, please contact university for up to date information.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (first teaching from September 2016):

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (first teaching from September 2016):

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma (first teaching from September 2016):

Welsh Baccalaureate - Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate (first teaching September 2015):

A - B Grades / Points required

including Chemistry and at least one further science A level from Biology, Maths/Further Maths or Physics. The third subject can be chosen from a wide range of subjects, but General Studies, Critical Thinking, Citizenship Studies, Global Perspectives and Research and Thinking Skills are excluded.A Pass in the practical element is required for science A levels if assessed separately.

This qualification is only acceptable when combined with Advanced Higher grades AA including Chemistry and one of Biology, Physics or Mathematics.

Requires 15 credits in Chemistry (including organic chemistry) and a further 15 credits in Maths, Biology or Physics.

including HL6 and HL5 in Chemistry and a second scienceor 665 in 3 HL certificates including Chemistry and a second science

Not accepted as a standalone qualification and must be supported by A level Chemistry.

Considered on a case-by-case basis.

This qualification is only acceptable when combined with A level Chemistry and potentially one of Biology, Physics or Maths/Further Maths depending on BTEC content.

Considered on a case-by-case basis

This qualification is only acceptable when combined with A level Chemistry and one of Biology, Physics or Maths/Further Maths.

Top 5 A-levels taken by students who study this subject at uni.

Students living in

£9,250 per year

Students from England

This is the fee you pay if you live within England. Please note, this is subject to change. Please confirm the most up to date fee with the individual institution.

Students from Scotland

This is the fee you pay if you live within Scotland. Please note, this is subject to change. Please confirm the most up to date fee with the individual institution.

Students from Wales

This is the fee you pay if you live within Wales. Please note, this is subject to change. Please confirm the most up to date fee with the individual institution.

Students from Northern Ireland

This is the fee you pay if you live within Northern Ireland. Please note, this is subject to change. Please confirm the most up to date fee with the individual institution.

Students from Channel Islands

This is the fee you pay if you live within Channel Islands. Please note, this is subject to change.

£28,600 per year

Students from EU

This is the fee you pay if you live within the European Union. Please note, this is subject to change. Please confirm the most up to date fee with the individual institution.

Students from International

This is the fee you pay if you are an International student. Please note, this is subject to change. Please confirm the most up to date fee with the individual institution.

Latest Pharmacy reviews

Review breakdown, how all students rated:.

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College of Pharmacy

College Welcomes New Graduate Students

The UI College of Pharmacy is excited to welcome 12 new graduate students for the fall 2024 semester.  Graduate training in the College is offered in three programs. Health Services Research (HSR) studies challenges facing the health care system and melds ideas across several distinct scientific paradigms (sociology, economics, psychology, business, and anthropology) to better understand factors leading to health care decisions. Drug Discovery and Experimental Therapeutics (DDET) provides students with comprehensive studies in drug development and the creation of innovative therapeutics. In Pharmaceutics, students train on how to develop novel drug entities into safe and effective drug products used by patients and caregivers to treat or prevent disease.  

The students represent six states, including Iowa, North Carolina, Arizona, Illinois, Nebraska, and Minnesota. Six different countries also are represented; South Korea, India, Egypt, China, Jordan, and the United States.  A warm welcome to everyone from the University of Iowa!

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What are you looking for?

Master of Pharmacy (Hons)

UNM/JPT-R2/727/6/0066(9/26)MQA/FA7940

• Full-time: 4 years (2 years in Malaysia + 2 years in the UK)
• Part-time: Not available
• Start date: September 2024
• Malaysian fee: RM55,000 per year, Fees in GBP28,600/year for years 3 and 4
• International fee: RM61,000 per year, Fees in GBP28,600/year for years 3 and 4
• Intake: September

Course overview

The Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) is a 4 year degree programme, with students studying the first two years at our Malaysia campus, before transferring to the UK campus for years three and four. Our School of Pharmacy is ranked in the top 8 in the world for pharmacy and pharmacology (QS World University Rankings 2023). Much of the teaching is case-based, providing real life examples bringing together the fundamental science and clinical use of medicines. We provide integrated teaching across therapeutic themes or disease states. For each topic, you will look at it from the angle of the drug, the medicine and the patient. You'll gain patient interaction experience through placements in community and hospital pharmacies. You'll also take part in patient workshops.

You can practise patient consulting and dispensing in our simulated pharmacies. The final year has a module called Pharmacy Leadership and Management. You'll work in teams to run your own simulated pharmacy. The module looks at the commercial, clinical and ethical issues that being a pharmacist involves.

Why choose this course?

The course is aimed at students who have a commitment to becoming a registered healthcare professional, with a strong background in both Chemistry and Biology. The school is top 4 in the UK and top 8 in the world for pharmacy and pharmacology (QS World University Rankings 2023).

Typical core modules

• Digestive system
• Fundamentals of Pharmacy
• Human Life Cycle
• Autoimmune and allergy
• Cardiovascular
• Dermatology
• Infections 1 and 2
• Respiratory
• Cancers Pain
• Central Nervous System
• Prescribing Competencies and Practice
• Research Project

Throughout the course, you will be completing professional competency and medicine pathway activities.

• Advancing therapies, practice and care 1 and 2

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

In addition to the entry requirements listed above, Malaysian applicants with Matriculation/Foundation/Diploma must have 5 Bs (including Biology, Chemistry, Physics and either Mathematics or Additional Mathematics) for SPM/ GCSE/ IGCSE/ High School Diploma or equivalent.

We strongly encourage all interested students to apply. Our students come to us with a diverse range of qualifications and we also consider applicants' personal statements, references and interview performance (if you have one) when making a decision. The only way for us to fully determine eligibility is through the submission of a completed application.

Interview required.

Entry requirements in the prospectus and website may not always apply and individual offers may vary.

IELTS, TOEFL and PTE (Academic) test results must be less than two years old and all IELTS must be the academic version of the test. MUET results are valid for five years from the date of the release of results.

Foundation progression options

The Foundation in Science enables direct progression to the undergraduate degrees offered within the Faculty of Science. This rigorous programme provides students with a strong academic background that will result in enhanced language, mathematics, critical thinking and study skills.

Students on this programme also chose from a range of elective modules that provide the opportunity to sample topics related to their chosen undergraduate pathway such as chemistry, ecology, computer programming or psychology.

For entry into the MPharm course,  Foundation in Science students must fulfil the progression rules. Students should have an average pass mark of 65% in the Foundation in Science programme, with a minimum of 60% in all chemistry modules. Students must also fulfil the English language requirement for the MPharm course.

Learning and assessment

How you will learn.

• Practical classes
• Field trips
• Supervision
• Lab sessions
• Computer labs

How you will be assessed

• Group coursework
• Examinations
• Presentation
• Research project
• Poster presentation
• Practical write-ups

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for undergraduate courses.

Where you will learn

Malaysia campus.

Semenyih Campus is 48km from Kuala Lumpur International Airport and just 45 minutes’ drive from the famous city centre with its iconic Petronas Twin Towers. On arrival, you are immersed in the green jungle backdrop that Malaysia provides with wildlife, sunshine and campus lake.

The campus is home to our business, education, science and engineering schools, which sit alongside a sports centre, library and student accommodation. The University has everything a modern day student could wish for with the added bonus of being located in central Asia allowing you to travel further afield in your free time.

Public transport is plentiful with free shuttle services operating on some routes. Taxi/Grab services in Malaysia are very reasonable and used widely by the student community.

Foundation training in employment (previously Pre-registration)

To complete your training and qualify as a registered, practising pharmacist you will need to complete the new GPhC Foundation training programme. This replaces the pre-registration placement year and has been designed as a universal programme to evidence skills across five key areas of professional practice, communication and collaborative working, leadership and management, education and research.

It brings pharmacists more in line with other healthcare professionals like medics and dentists. At the end of the year, you'll sit the General Pharmaceutical Council’s exam to become a qualified pharmacist. For the first time this also includes registration to become a Prescribing Pharmacist.

Our progressive and responsive course and teaching will help prepare you for the next stages in your training and career. Targeted support is given by a highly experienced specialised team of academic and professional staff, many of whom are involved in shaping and advising the pharmacy profession at a national level. We also have the MPharm Pharmacy (with Integrated Pre registration Scheme) course. This is the same as the MPharm course but includes equivalent training to the Foundation year as part of the course, and hence directly supported by and managed by the University.

Being a professional pharmacist

You could work as a pharmacist in the community, at a GP surgery or in a hospital. On the course, you'll experience the different types of pharmacy work so you can see what you enjoy the most.

Industrial pharmacy

If you are interested in the research and development of new drugs, you may consider industrial pharmacy. Industrial pharmacists work with scientists in other areas to discover safe and effective drugs.

Other roles

Your skills can be used in roles such as:

• pharmacy research
• veterinary pharmacy
• regulatory pharmacy
• drug discovery
• medicines manufacture

The University has an established Careers Advisory Service (CAS) that provides students with essential resources and guidance for career choices offering many opportunities to develop the skills needed to plan and manage your future. Our Careers Advisory Service will work with you to improve and maximise your employability skills as well as providing essential resources and guidance that will assist you with job/course applications. They will facilitate searches for appropriate work experience placements and connect you to a wide range of prospective employers or training opportunities.

In order to register as a pharmacist, you must first undertake a pre-registration year. At the School of Pharmacy we have a pre-registration fair every year which is attended by potential employers from all sectors. Support is provided by both the school and the Careers and Employability Service to help you secure a pre-registration place.

In addition, the School of Pharmacy provides guidance and maintains good connections with both our alumni and prospective employers to facilitate experiential learning and explore career and training opportunities.

98.8% of undergraduates from the School of Pharmacy secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £31,702.*

* HESA Graduate Outcomes 2020. The Graduate Outcomes % is derived using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time within the UK.

Frequently asked questions

The University of Nottingham’s MPharm degree is a full-time, 4 year programme.

Although MPharm is sometimes considered a postgraduate degree, it is an undergraduate degree at UNM. The Pharmacy MPharm degree is suitable for students who have a strong foundation in Biology and Chemistry and want to become registered healthcare professionals.

Students need a minimum of an ABB in biology, chemistry and physics/mathematics in their A Level or STPM, or its equivalent. You must also meet the English language proficiency requirements.

If you’ve just completed secondary school or high school, UNM’s Foundation in Science offers direct progression to this degree if completed with an average mark of 65% with no failed modules and a minimum of 60% in Chemistry.

Some typical core modules include Fundamentals of Pharmacy, Digestive System, Autoimmune and Allergy, Infections 1 and 2, Dermatology, Prescribing Competencies and Practice, and Advancing Therapies, Practice and Care 1 and 2. There is also a research project in Year 3 and throughout the course, professional competency and medicine pathway activities are to be completed.

Graduates can pursue careers as pharmacists in hospitals, community pharmacies, and other healthcare settings. They can work in research and development, pharmaceutical manufacturing or in regulatory bodies. Moreover, they can also choose to pursue further education, for instance, in clinical pharmacy or pharmacy management.

Yes, international students are welcome to apply for the Pharmacy MPharm degree at UNM. Do refer to the universities admission requirements for international students for more information.

MPharm students will be assessed through a combination of coursework, exams, practical assessments, presentations and research projects.

Yes, we may consider transferring credits from another institution towards our programme; however, it is subject to approval. For more details, contact our admissions office for more information on our transfer credit policy.

This content was last updated on 10 July 2024 . Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.

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• UB Directory
• School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences >
• PharmD Program Quality Indicators >

PharmD Program Outcomes

Our PharmD program outcomes apply American Association of Colleges of Pharmacy (AACP) Curriculum Outcomes and Enstrustable Professional Activities (COEPA) recommendations to ensure all UB SPPS students are engaged in the most current and contemporary learning outcome measures available. 

UB PharmD Program Outcomes

Outcomes statement.

A UB PharmD graduate is a life-long learner who is passionate, accountable and independent, and a collaborative practitioner with effective communication skills . The graduate applies a solid foundational clinical knowledge base to optimize health through compassionate patient care centered on medication therapy management.

Program Outcomes

Upon conferral of a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Buffalo School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, pharmacist graduates will demonstrate the following skills and characteristics.

Each of the following statements are based on the  Oath of a Pharmacist  code of ethics.

• Possess essential pharmacy knowledge and skills
• Understand healthcare and medication systems
• Promote diversity and inclusion to advance health equity
• Uphold high standards of professional and ethical behavior
• Participate in interprofessional team-based care
• Commit to continuous professional development
• Use evidence-based approaches to improve public health
• Possess effective and empathic communication skills
• Embrace and advocate changes to improve patient care

PharmD Program Quality Indicators

Our PharmD graduates develop the comprehensive knowledge, skills and attitudes that enable them to stand out as health care professionals.

Pharmacy MPharm

University Park Campus, Nottingham, UK

Course information

Qualification : Master of Pharmacy with Honours Master of Pharmacy with Honours

General Pharmaceutical Council

This course is accredited by the  General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) . This means that you can apply for registration with them once you've completed your degree and pre-registration training.

• Start date : September 2025 September 2025

Entry requirements : 34 AAB

34 with 6,6,5 in three Higher Level subjects including 6 in Higher Level chemistry and 6 or 5 in one of Higher Level maths, biology, or physics

7.0 (no less than 6.0 in any element)

English language requirements

As well as IELTS (listed above), we also accept other English language qualifications. This includes TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB and O level English. Check our  English language policies and equivalencies  for further details.

For presessional English or one-year foundation courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations.

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a  Presessional English for Academic Purposes (PEAP) course . Our Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

Check our  country-specific information  for guidance on qualifications from your country.

• AAB, including chemistry and at least one further science A level from biology, maths or physics
• A pass in the practical element of science subjects is required if assessed separately
• The third A level can be any subject apart from general studies, critical thinking, citizenship studies, global perspectives and research or thinking skills which are not accepted
• Maths 5 (B) or above
• English 5 (B) or above

General studies, critical thinking, citizenship studies, global perspectives and research, thinking skills

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

Please note: Applicants whose backgrounds or personal circumstances have impacted their academic performance may receive a reduced offer. Please see our  contextual admissions policy  for more information.

All applications must include a personal statement and it should have a clear pharmacy focus.  We welcome applications from those applying for other healthcare profession courses, such as medicine, but you might be asked to submit another statement if interest in and motivation to study pharmacy is not clearly defined.

Alternative qualifications

We recognise that applicants have a wealth of different experiences and follow a variety of pathways into higher education.

Consequently we treat all applicants with alternative qualifications (besides A levels and the International Baccalaureate) on an individual basis, and we gladly accept students with a whole range of less conventional qualifications including:

• RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma Applied Science DDD
• RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma Applied Science (Biomedical Science) DDD
• Other applications are assessed on an individual basis to ensure sufficient science content has been studied

We will consider the following:

• RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Diploma DDD
• RQF Level 3 BTEC National Diploma DD + A level grade A
• RQF Level 3 BTEC National Extended Certificate D + A level grades AB
• The required A levels for mixed BTEC and A level grade profiles depends on the science content studied in the BTEC

Applications are assessed on an individual basis. Where an offer is made, our standard requirements are:

• Access to HE Diploma 30 graded Level 3 credits at Distinction (including 15 credits from acceptable chemistry units* plus 15 credits from maths, biology or physics units), plus 15 graded Level 3 credits at Merit

* Organic chemistry is an essential Access to HE Diploma unit.

This list is not exhaustive. The entry requirements for alternative qualifications can be quite specific; for example you may need to take certain modules and achieve a specified grade in those modules. Please contact us to discuss the transferability of your qualification. Please see the  alternative qualifications page  for more information.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK.  Student route visas  can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses.  The Standard Visitor visa  route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s  Visa and Immigration team  if you need advice about your visa options.

Re-sits and previously achieved results

For A levels, these must be no lower than grades BCC. Similarly, for the International Baccalaureate (IB) these must be no lower than 544. For any other qualifications these will be reviewed on a case basis. These minimum grades also apply if you are looking to take an alternative qualification such as a foundation year or Access to HE.

Please note if you have received Centre/Teacher assessed grades in 2020 or 2021, you will not be required to meet this resit policy.

We will consider all extenuating circumstances that might have affected performance and will do this on a case-by-case basis. Please  contact us  for further support on this.

We initially shortlist based on your UCAS application and grades. The next step is an interview. We use a multi-mini interview (MMI) format. The MMI is a series of short interviews, each around five minutes that explore and engage your communication skills, interest in pharmacy and scenario based discussion on ethics and professional values and general understanding of how medicines work. It is an interactive process that gives you further insight into being a pharmacist. Further information about the  interview process is on our website .

RQF BTEC Nationals

Other applications are assessed on an individual basis to ensure sufficient science content has been studied. We will consider the following:

The required A levels for mixed BTEC and A level grade profiles depends on the science content studied in the BTEC.

Access to HE Diploma

Age requirement

You must be at least 18 years old by the end of the calendar year you start your MPharm degree to meet the requirements of the placements within your course.

Standards for pharmacy professionals

Pharmacy is one of the registered healthcare professions and carries both privileges and responsibilities. You are expected to conduct yourself professionally at all times. The  Standards for Pharmacy Professionals  apply to all pharmacy students from the first day of the course to the day of graduation and applies both on and off campus.

The school has fitness to practise procedures in place for pharmacy students and you will be given more information about these when you join the course.

The  Standards for Pharmacy Professionals  and the requirement for fitness to practise procedures are issued by the  General Pharmaceutical Council  (GPhC). However, you should note that the GPhC is not an adjudicator or appeal body, and will not be able to offer prospective registration advice.

The GPhC is the final decision maker in relation to an individual's eligibility to:

• enter pharmacist Foundation training
• register as a pharmacist

The GPhC reserves the right to set aside a school's fitness to practise decision, if there are grounds for doing so, when making either of these decisions.

The GPhC has its own requirements for registration as a pharmacist, including making its own health and good character checks. It also has its own fitness to practise procedures for registered pharmacists. The GPhC can refuse to register a student as a Foundation or pharmacist if a check is failed, even if previous checks have been passed.

As a member of the Pharmacy Schools Council, the school makes use of the Excluded Students Database to identify applicants who have been excluded from a professional degree programme on grounds of fitness to practice. Applications from applicants who appear on the Database will be considered on an individual basis.

Health questionnaire

When you accept your offer, the school will send out a health questionnaire with further instructions before you join us. The vaccinations required for the MPharm are Varicella, BCG (Tuberculosis), Hepatitis B and MMR. You will be asked for documentary evidence of these at your occupational health check at the start of year one.

Character checks

UK-based applicants will be asked to complete a criminal records check. The University of Nottingham use KnowYourPeople and you will be sent details of how to complete this when you meet your offer.

We encourage students to discuss any problems or concerns with us as soon as possible so that we can support and advise you appropriately. If you have any questions or concerns regarding any of the above, then please contact us on [email protected]

Notes for applicants

We are looking for strong academic qualifications as well as a commitment to a career as a healthcare professional. Your personal statement is your opportunity to make yourself stand out from the crowd. We want to know what interests you about being a healthcare professional so it is worth reflecting on any related reading that you have done, any work experience and/or any extracurricular activities that you do. For additional information regarding writing your personal statement, please see the  UCAS website .

Entry to our MPharm is always into year one, with no exceptions.

We do not accept lower grade A levels alongside an incomplete or partial degree.

We welcome applications from candidates who would like to defer entry until the following academic year.

For candidates who are re-sitting a full year, the standard offer will remain as AAB.

Foundation progression options

If you don't meet our entry requirements there is the option to study the science foundation programme. If you successfully pass the year, you can progress to the Master of Pharmacy or Pharmaceutical Sciences courses. There is a course for  UK students  and one for  EU/international students .

Mature students

At the University of Nottingham, we have a valuable community of mature students and we appreciate their contribution to the wider student population. You can find lots of useful information on the  mature students webpage .

To comply with General Pharmaceutical Council fitness to practice requirements, all students will undergo health and good character checks as part of the admissions process. International students whose first language is not English are required to have the listedEnglish language qualifications (IELTS) before they can register on an academic programme.

Contextual offers

We make contextual offers to students who may have experienced barriers that have restricted progress at school or college. Our standard contextual offer is usually one grade lower than the advertised entry requirements, and our enhanced contextual offer is usually two grades lower than the advertised entry requirements. To qualify for a contextual offer, you must have Home/UK fee status and meet specific criteria –  check if you're eligible .

Pharmacy is one of the registered healthcare professions and carries both privileges and responsibilities. You are expected to conduct yourself professionally at all times. The Standards for Pharmacy Professionals apply to all pharmacy students from the first day of the course to the day of graduation and applies both on and off campus.

• UCAS Code : B230 B230

Duration : 4 years full-time 4 years full-time

Study abroad

On this course, you can apply to study abroad at one of our partner institutions or at University of Nottingham China or University of Nottingham Malaysia. If you are successful in applying to study abroad, you will get the opportunity to broaden your horizons and enhance your CV by experiencing another culture. Teaching is typically in English, but there may be opportunities to study in another language if you are sufficiently fluent.  You can choose to study similar modules to your counterparts in the UK or expand your knowledge by taking other options.  The school you are joining may also have additional study abroad options available. Please visit the school website for more information.  

Please note:  In order to study abroad you will need to achieve the relevant academic requirements as set by the university and meet the selection criteria of both the university and the partner institution. The partner institution is under no obligation to accept you even if you do meet the relevant criteria. 

In each year of the course you will go on professional placements. These could include community pharmacies and hospitals. You'll also go on insight visits that provide interprofessional experiences. The majority of placements are in Nottinghamshire. You may also be allocated to placements in Derbyshire and Leicestershire. All placements are accessible by public transport.

Study abroad and the year in industry are subject to students meeting minimum academic requirements. Opportunities may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the university’s control. Every effort will be made to update information as quickly as possible should a change occur.

Key information

Please be aware  that study abroad, compulsory year abroad, optional placements/internships and integrated year in industry opportunities may change at any time for a number of reasons, including curriculum developments, changes to arrangements with partner universities or placement/industry hosts, travel restrictions or other circumstances outside of the university’s control. Every effort will be made to update this information as quickly as possible should a change occur.  

Please note: In order to study abroad you will need to achieve the relevant academic requirements as set by the university and meet the selection criteria of both the university and the partner institution. The partner institution is under no obligation to accept you even if you do meet the relevant criteria. 

Fees : £30,750 per year £9,250 per year

*  For full details including fees for part-time students and reduced fees during your time studying abroad or on placement (where applicable),  see our fees page .

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using  guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA)  .

Additional costs

All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the  equipment advice .

As a student on this course, you should factor some additional costs into your budget, alongside your tuition fees and living expenses, including a DBS check.  See a full list of additional costs for this course.  If you study abroad, you will need to consider the costs of travel and living expenses in the country that you choose.

You should be able to access most of the books you’ll need through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies.

Due to our commitment to sustainability, we don’t print lecture notes but these are available digitally. You will be given £5 worth of printer credits a year. You are welcome to buy more credits if you need them. It costs 4p to print one black and white page.

Scholarships and bursaries

International students

We offer a range of  international undergraduate scholarships  for high-achieving international scholars who can put their Nottingham degree to great use in their careers.

Home students*

Over one third of our UK students receive our means-tested core bursary, worth up to £1,000 a year. Full details can be found on our  financial support pages .

* A 'home' student is one who meets certain UK residence criteria. These are the same criteria as apply to eligibility for home funding from Student Finance.

Course overview

Start your pharmacy career with a world top 10 school*. Our teaching, learning materials and student support back this incredible ranking.

Current students have co-designed our teaching to shape the future of your lessons. We integrate professional practice, drug prescribing and patient skills across therapeutic themes.

Learn how to assess, speak to and treat a patient (with actors). Role-play how to speak to different professionals in our very own Professional Development Suite.

Gain clinical interaction experience through placements in the community, GP and hospital pharmacies. You will develop your skills to advise patients and healthcare professionals on the safe and effective use of medicines.

You will run your own simulated pharmacy. This will be in a fully immersive commercial and patient-centred clinical environment. Practise patient counselling, drug dispensing and medicine prescribing.

You have the opportunity to fly to multiple places like Malaysia, Canada and Australia for your study abroad and research project. MPharm student Nora went to our Malaysia campus. "There was nicer weather. It was quite diverse. Different cultures to see around you, and different forms of treatments."

We will prepare you for the new one year Foundation Training employment. You will need to complete this following graduation to become a registered Pharmacist.

* QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023 .

Why choose this course?

• Top 10 course in the world for pharmacy and pharmacology in QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023
• Top 20 in the UK for pharmacy and pharmacology (Guardian University Guide 2024)
• Opportunity to travel in your third year to places like Australia, Italy or Canada
• Opportunity to fly to our Malaysia campus for all or part of your second year
• Accredited   by the General Pharmaceutical Council 
• Dedicated  Personal Tutor, who will remain with you through the course
• Opportunities  to attend pharmacy conferences

Important information

This online prospectus has been drafted in advance of the academic year to which it applies. Every effort has been made to ensure that the information is accurate at the time of publishing, but changes (for example to course content) are likely to occur given the interval between publishing and commencement of the course. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply for the course where there has been an interval between you reading this website and applying.

Indicative modules

Fundamentals of Pharmacy

Human Life Cycle

Digestive System

Infections 1

Infections 2

Autoimmune Disease

Respiratory

Dermatology

Cardiovascular

Central Nervous System (CNS)

Pharmacy Research Project

Pharmaceutical Care and Prescribing (PCAP)

Advancing Therapies, Practice and Care 1

Advancing Therapies, Practice and Care 2

About modules

The above is a sample of the typical modules we offer, but is not intended to be construed or relied on as a definitive list of what might be available in any given year. This content was last updated on Thursday 13 June 2024. Due to timetabling availability, there may be restrictions on some module combinations.

You will learn the core skills needed as a pharmacist. You'll understand the role of a pharmacist in healthcare. This is covered through three main areas:

• Fundamental concepts in science relating to drugs
• Medicine design
• Professional and clinical pharmacy

You will be taught how to handle with accuracy and precision the dispensing of medicines, calculations and laboratory skills.

Future responsibilities of a healthcare professional will be introduced. Such as, protection of the public, ensuring the quality, safety and efficacy of medicines, and being an expert in drugs and medicines.

You will learn the different roles of pharmacists in hospitals, primary care organisations, community pharmacies and the pharmaceutical industry. You'll be shown ways of working in interdisciplinary teams to optimise the treatment of patients.

The role of the pharmacist in the treatment and prescribing for patients at different stages of the Human Life Cycle.

The topics covered in this teaching block include:

• Evolutionary basis of sex
• The physiological basis of sexual attraction
• Physiological and pharmacokinetic changes during stages of the Human Life Cycle, and their impact on medicines use
• Conception, contraception and infertility, including ethical and moral considerations
• Pregnancy - testing and prescribing in
• Embryo development, sexual differentiation, foetal physiology and nutrition
• Breast-feeding, nursing, and prescribing for it
• Children medicines development and prescribing for it
• Older patients - prescribing and the concept of deprescribing
• End of life care and prescribing for it
• The use of off-label and unlicensed medicines
• Anatomy of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract and structure and function of the liver
• How a pharmacist treats and prescribes drugs to patients with GI and liver diseases
• Influences on absorption of drugs and nutrients within the GI
• Intestinal and hepatic metabolic pathways 
• The role of normal GI bacteria
• Absorption of drugs and the role of dosage form properties that control absorption
• Identification and evaluation of appropriate methods to optimize oral delivery
• Identification of potential limits to oral delivery
• Identification of appropriate types of dosage forms for specific drugs
• Importance of nutritional therapy in these diseases

Antibiotics and antifungals are among the most commonly prescribed drugs used to treat infection. Therefore, it is important that pharmacists understand the underlying principles of these classes of drugs. Antibiotics are amongst the most commonly overprescribed drug by medical professionals. With the emergence of antibiotic-resistant pathogens, resulting in a serious threat to global public health.

You will have an appreciation of microbiology and infectious diseases, a deep understanding of the key classes of antimicrobial drugs, and detailed knowledge regarding antibiotic prescribing from a clinical pharmacy perspective.

On completion of the teaching block you should have a clear understanding of these key concepts and your role as pharmacists, as part of the healthcare team, in infection control and tackling global infection health issues.

This teaching block will provide a basic grounding in microbiology, common infectious diseases, mode of action and spectrum of antimicrobial agents, and how these drugs are delivered to and dealt with by the body. The teaching block will also cover antibiotic prescribing and dispensing, and infection control. Examples of topics within the module include:

• Common bacterial and fungal infections and current treatment regimes.
• Targeted antimicrobial chemotherapy.
• Emerging resistance of microorganisms and future directions for antimicrobial strategies.
• Tuberculosis infection as a global infection health issue.

The teaching block also uses examples of antibiotics and antifungals to highlight key scientific concepts in the pharmacology, chemistry, ADME and pharmaceuticals of important classes of drugs.

Viruses and Parasites present special challenges for Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists. There are far less antiviral than anti-bacterial drugs; the same can be said for anthelminthics.

You will learn the basics on biology of viruses, protozan and metazoan parasites.

Pharmacies in the UK sell vaccinations against viral diseases (e.g. HepA, HepB, HPV) as well as prophylactic agents against malaria. You will gain a sound understanding of these pathogens and the drugs or vaccinations available for treatment. Key concepts will be reinforced in practicals and workshops in which you will learn how to design anti-viral drugs in silico and about the role of pharmacists during flu pandemics.

This teaching block aims to get you thinking about the available treatments for important viral and parasitic diseases. It will introduce tools and concepts enabling the quantitative assessment of socioeconomic impact of diseases.

On completion of this teaching block, you will be able to:

• understand the biological mechanisms employed by parasites to infect their hosts
• understand how such mechanisms are targeted by drugs
• understand the mechanisms of action and pharmacological properties of antiviral, antiprotozoan and anti-helminthic drugs
• describe the therapeutic usefulness of numerous classes of medicine in clinical use
• advise patients regarding travel medicines and immunisation
• provide advice on the management and prevention of sexually transmitted infections
• describe the therapeutic uses of the main antiviral and antiparasitic veterinary medicines.

Learn breakthrough research in biology and pharmaceutical sciences underpinning current and future strategies for treating inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.

You'll learn of the molecular and cellular mechanisms associated with inflammatory disorders.

Optimising and advising about therapies, correct uses of devices and disease self-management will be highlighted to you as a frontline pharmacist. You will be able to assess appropriate management of these disorders in both mechanistic and clinical terms.

Treatment of inflammatory diseases will be illustrated by consideration of rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases. We aim to illustrate molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying these pathological states; how therapeutic intervention is designed to treat these states and how better medicines can be generated for these conditions.

Examples of topics within this teaching block include:

• The role of inflammatory cells.
• Current and future pharmacotherapies to treat inflammatory conditions; molecular and cellular targets.
• Delivery systems for pharmacotherapies and their appropriate usage and supply.
• The role of the pharmacist in the treatment and management of patients with autoimmune disease .

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases are amongst the most common disorders encountered by pharmacists which affect the respiratory system. Two other very common disorders both atopy and eczema will be highlighted in this teaching block too.

You'll be able to define the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying these pathological states; how therapeutic intervention is designed to treat these states and how better medicines can be generated for these conditions.

• The regulation of smooth muscle tone and mucus production; the role of inflammatory cells.
• Current and future pharmacotherapies to treat respiratory and inflammatory conditions; molecular and cellular targets.
• Delivery systems (inhalers, etc.) for pharmacotherapies and their appropriate usage and supply.
• The role of the pharmacist in the treatment and management of patients with respiratory diseases.
• biology of renal function
• symptoms of renal diseases
• Advanced renal pharmacokinetics
• presentation and management of symptoms relating to renal disease
• law and ethics relating to renal and endocrine topics - e.g. living organ donors
• role of the pharmacist in the treatment and management of patients with renal disease

You will know about the symptoms and management of renal diseases and will have a sound knowledge of the underlying, biology, pharmacology and chemistry, including the design of dosing devices and important ethical considerations.

You will be taught about the:

• biology of endocrine function
• symptoms of endocrine diseases
• chemistry and mechanism of action of peptide-based drugs (insulin as a key example)
• Physical and chemical properties of proteins relevant to formulation and manufacture of insulin products
• recombinant DNA technology
• presentation and management of symptoms relating to diabetes disease
• law and ethics relating to renal and endocrine topics - e.g. performance-enhancing drugs
• The role of the pharmacist in the treatment and management of patients with endocrine diseases

You will learn a comprehensive coverage of pharmacy-relevant topics relating to endocrine diseases. Will understand how the key biological systems can malfunction to cause disease and how these diseases may be treatable by specific drug therapies. 

Pharmacists are often the first point of contact for patients with mild skin problems. You will learn how to assist, diagnosis and treat patients with skin problems over the counter. You'll learn how to support patients with long term dermatological conditions.

Example of teaching content includes:

• Detailed patient history taking
• The formulation science underpinning the use of topical treatments
• Common skin conditions and infections
• The use of non-topical treatments for dermatological conditions
• The role of the pharmacist in the treatment and management of dermatological conditions

Upon completion you will be able to advise patients on self-care of skin conditions, refer patients for specialist investigation, and be able to consider how skin conditions vary according to skin tone.

Learn about health and diseases within the cardiovascular system. It includes key drug classes, from their fundamental science through to clinical usage.

Understand the evidence-based medicines which underpins therapeutics for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. As a pharmacist in training, you'll learn evidence-based treatments and support treatments by appropriate patient counselling and lifestyle advice.

There will be case studies based on key problem questions that you will learn and investigate. The emphasis is on you to become self-seeking independent learners, with high level enquiry and critical skills.

Everybody experiences pain at some time and a pharmacist, irrespective of the patient facing setting, encounters patients with pain several times each day. You will be provided with scientific background information to be able to understand and describe the clinical use of commonly used analgesics and targets for novel analgesics. 

You'll discuss legal and ethical issues that contribute to appropriate and illicit analgesic use.

We will cover key aspects of the Interprofessional Pain Curriculum Outline as proposed by the International Association for the Study of Pain.

You'll learn areas such as:

• Mechanisms of pain transduction and transmission
• Relevant medicinal chemistry, and pharmacology and therapeutics of commonly used analgesics including paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• local anaesthetics, opioids, adjuvant analgesics and 5-HT1-receptor agonists (triptans)
• Epidemiology and presentation of commonly encountered types of pain
• Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 and ethical issues that you will face when practising as a pharmacist
• The role of pharmacist in the treatment and prescribing to patients with pain

Many of the most common and difficult to treat medical conditions affect the CNS and knowledge of how drugs can be used to alleviate these problems is required by all pharmacists.

You will build on these foundations to apply medicine use in complex ethical and therapeutic cases. By learning the key methods and philosophies of healthcare coaching, you will be equipped to conduct difficult mental health conversations.

We will teach you to understand and describe the pathophysiology of CNS disorders, different treatment pathways and the medicines used to treat them in a rational manner.

You'll cover areas such as:

• the basic anatomy and function of the CNS
• the signs, symptoms and origins of disorders of emotion and thinking
• neurodegenerative diseases and epilepsy
• the mechanisms of action and clinical pharmacology of the drugs used in their treatment
• drugs of abuse and associated approaches to treatment
• strategies employed to deliver drugs through the blood/brain barrier
• complex ethical challenges within patients suffering from Mental Health problems, incorporating the Mental Health capacity Act and Pharmacy professional standards
• advanced consultation skills required for patients suffering from Mental Health problems

Address issues relevant to the diagnosis and treatment of cancers, and the professional and ethical issues concerning palliative care and the end of life.

In particular, you will be encouraged to think of cancers as a diverse group of genetic diseases which pose unique problems in their diagnosis and management.

Examples of a small number of cancer types will be used to illustrate key points which have broader relevance to cancer therapy and beyond.

You will cover areas such as:

• The biological hallmarks of cancer
• Classes of anti-cancer drug
• Cancer treatments and formulations
• Patient management and palliative care
• Epidemiology and Health Economics
• The role of the pharmacist in the treatment and management of patients with cancer, and patients at the end-of-life stage

Experience contemporary research methods by engaging yourself to design a research programme and perform experiments, surveys, or other research activities aimed at solving a specific pharmacy-related or biomedical problem.

The practical component of the project will provide an opportunity for you to carry out scientific research, and to relate the outcomes to scientific concepts and knowledge of the field. You will collect, analyse and interpret data, read and collate previous results relevant to their problem, presenting their research as a clear and concise report.

The form of project may vary and it may be based on laboratory work, clinical audit, or patient studies.

Academic supervisors will provide the topic of study and guidance on the project. You will be able to develop the theme of the dissertation in your own way.

You will be provided with an opportunity to use your initiative and knowledge in undertaking an original research study. With the aim to provide you with first-hand research experience and insights into scientific methodology, through the undertaking of a review of published work and experimental and/or computer-based work to investigate a selected topic, culminating in a written dissertation.

Practical projects are likely to involve the utilization of state-of-the-art instrumentation available in the Schools of Pharmacy and Life Sciences, whereas students undertaking clinical projects may be required to visit practice based settings.

You will learn practices to prescribe, this will also consider diagnostics, deprescribing, medicines optimisation, medicines adherence, and transfer of care.

• Law, accountability and ethics of prescribing
• Prescribing in a public health context
• Psychology of, and influences on, prescribing
• Prescribing in a team context
• Consultation, decision making and therapy including referral
• Pharmacology and therapeutics
• Organisational leadership in relation to prescribing
• Continuing professional development

We will prepare and support you on your journey to being able to prescribe safely and knowledgeably using the British National Formulary and other evidence-based medicines resources, following prescribing competency frameworks. The course will prepare you for future prescribing authority.

You'll join a small team with fellow pharmacy students to understand two core areas:

Step in to a simulated environment of a pharmacist. confronted with routine activities, long lasting projects and incidents relating to a fully fledged pharmacy. It takes a:

• patient-focussed approach to medicine optimisation
• follow patients through several care pathways
• prescribe multiple medicines to manage coexisting problems
• (paid) actors will participate as patients, customers, prescribers and other health care staff, pharmaceutical company representatives, inspectors and so on
• practice patient care either face-to-face, over a phone or through virtual interactions

You will learn advancement of the knowledge of disease management and conditions covered previously and introduction of new diseases and conditions. You will develop and be supported in  problem-solving skills and your abilities in application of therapeutics to these complex patients.

Hone in on your critical thinking and decision-making, team-working, and teaching skills.

We have a team culture that you will join, learning leadership, management and appraisal from peers and staff to support your future professional roles.

Patient treatment changing over the years

Your career within the pharmacy sector could span over 40 years. During this time there will be major changes in your roles and the types of medicines available to treat patients. In this teaching block, you will be challenged to think about how patient treatment could change over the course of your career and we will help to prepare you for changes by developing  your critical thinking. This is with respect to how new medicines are introduced and how healthcare professionals and scientists can keep their personal knowledge up-to-date. Examples of new medicines that may be considered are:

• The application of gene therapy and RNA therapeutics to medicine, including examples of successful approaches in clinical trials.
• New developments in antibody technologies and biosimilars for therapeutics.
• The potential of stem cell therapies to transform medicine.
• The application of drug delivery to create targeted therapies for inflammatory diseases, cancer chemotherapy and needle-free vaccine delivery.

You will further enhance your knowledge from semester one, continuing to work as a team. Focusing on simulation and being challenged to think about how patient treatment could change over the years. 

You will learn to:

• advance your skills and knowledge in disease management and medicine optimisation
• capitalise on experiences gained outside the teaching block such as vocational experiences both within the course and outside
• enable assessment of new scientific breakthroughs in terms of their clinical potential
• enable students to deliver patient care, essential, advanced and bespoke services
• further develop students’ skills in leadership, management, marketing, communication, problem-solving abilities critical thinking, teaching and learning, and team-working
• provide an appreciation of the research breakthroughs in biology and pharmaceutical sciences that are driving the invention of future medicines

How you will learn

The course is structured into defined teaching blocks with a core theme of drug - medicine - patient. Each teaching block integrates key topics, including chemistry, pharmaceutics, biology and physiology, pharmacology, professionalism and leadership and pharmacy practice.

You will experience and interactively engage in a progressive spiral curriculum that combines the science with the professional and clinical skills to progressively attain detailed understanding and to shape your role as a highly trained healthcare professional and an expert on the safe and effective use of medicines.

Your teaching and learning experience will integrate you, working as an individual, small group and team working and a range of teaching formats, including experiential learning to consolidate your understanding.

Teaching methods

• Lab sessions
• Problem classes
• Case studies
• Problem based learning

How you will be assessed

Guidance will be given on how your work is assessed. Through workshops, on-line forums and Q&A sessions, we will work together to prepare you for all assessments. Your work will be marked in a timely manner and you will receive regular feedback.

All teaching blocks must be passed for progression to the next year and overall final mark and degree classification. Pass marks vary according to the teaching block and can range from a minimum of 40% through to 100%, which is required for the continuing professional development teaching block.

Your final degree classification will be based on marks gained for your second and subsequent years of study. Year two is worth 20% with years three and four worth 40% each.

Assessment methods

• Group project
• Lab reports
• Presentation
• Poster presentation
• Research project
• Written exam

Contact time and study hours

As a guide, one credit equals approximately 10 hours of work. You will spend around half of your time in lectures, tutorials, workshops, case-studies, practical classes and placements. The remaining time will be completed as independent study.

Tutorial sessions are built into the timetable and there are several group and individual meetings timetabled throughout the year. You can also arrange additional meetings with your tutor.

Core modules are typically delivered by professors, assistant and associate professors or teaching practitioners (practising pharmacists who also teach). Practical and laboratory skills teaching blocks may be supported by postgraduate teaching assistant.

For each teaching block there are feedback sessions and workshops with teaching block conveners, year heads, the Course Director and the Head of School.

Careers overview

Foundation training in employment (previously pre-registration).

To complete your training and qualify as a registered, practising pharmacist you will need to complete the new GPhC Foundation training programme. This replaces the pre-registration placement year and has been designed as a universal programme to evidence skills across five key areas of professional practice, communication and collaborative working, leadership and management, education and research.

It brings pharmacists more in line with other healthcare professionals like medics and dentists. At the end of the year, you'll sit the General Pharmaceutical Council’s exam to become a qualified pharmacist. For the first time this also includes registration to become a Prescribing Pharmacist.

Our progressive and responsive course and teaching will help prepare you for the next stages in your training and career. Targeted support is given by a highly experienced specialised team of academic and professional staff, many of whom who are involved in shaping and advising the pharmacy profession at a national level.

We also have the MPharm Pharmacy (with Integrated Pre registration Scheme) course. This is the same as the MPharm course but includes equivalent training to the Foundation year as part of the course, and hence directly supported by and managed by the University.

Being a professional pharmacist

You could work as a pharmacist in the community, at a GP surgery or in a hospital. On the course, you'll experience the different types of pharmacy work so you can see what you enjoy the most.

Industrial pharmacy

If you are interested in the research and development of new drugs, you may consider industrial pharmacy. Industrial pharmacists work with scientists in other areas to discover safe and effective drugs.

Other roles

Your skills can be used in roles such as:

• pharmacy research
• veterinary pharmacy
• regulatory pharmacy
• drug discovery
• medicines manufacture

Job prospects

Average starting salary and career progression.

94.30% of undergraduates from the School of Pharmacy secured employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £32,808.

HESA Graduate Outcomes (2017-2021 cohorts). The Graduate Outcomes % is calculated using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on graduates working full-time within the UK.

Careers advice

Studying for a degree at the University of Nottingham will provide you with the type of skills and experiences that will prove invaluable in any career, whichever direction you decide to take.

Throughout your time with us, our Careers and Employability Service can work with you to improve your employability skills even further; assisting with job or course applications, searching for appropriate work experience placements and hosting events to bring you closer to a wide range of prospective employers.

Have a look at our careers page for an overview of all the employability support and opportunities that we provide to current students.

The University of Nottingham is consistently named as one of the most targeted universities by Britain’s leading graduate employers (Ranked in the top ten in The Graduate Market in 2013-2020, High Fliers Research).

Your Campus - University Park

University Park Campus covers 300 acres, with green spaces, wildlife, period buildings and modern facilities. It is one of the UK's most beautiful and sustainable campuses, winning a national Green Flag award every year since 2003.

The School of Pharmacy has excellent connections to the industry, which helped me secure a summer placement with Boots.

MPharm Pharmacy

Course data

Related courses.

Faculty of Science

4 years full-time

Pharmaceutical Sciences (with a Year in Industry) MSci Hons

Qualification MSci Hons

Entry requirements AAB

UCAS code B23B

5 years full-time

Pharmacy (with Integrated Foundation Training) MPharm

Qualification MPharm

UCAS code B236

3 years full-time

Pharmaceutical Sciences BSc Hons

Qualification BSc Hons

Entry requirements ABB

UCAS code B313

Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences

Pharmacology BSc Hons

UCAS code B211

Help and support

If you’re looking for more information, please head to our help and support hub, where you can find frequently asked questions or details of how to make an enquiry.