Pharmacology BSc (Hons)

30 credits

This module introduces basic cell biology of prokaryotes and eukaryotes, genetics, germ layers, and tissue types in the human body, as well as various microorganisms.  

You will experience practical sessions in a state-of-the-art laboratory, on microscopy, histology, cytogenetics and microbiology, enabling you to develop practical skills in the correct use of microscopes, examining and studying chromosomes, prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, microbes and tissues, interpreting, and recording biological data, and build upon your knowledge gained from lectures.

This module provides a foundation for advanced modules in cell biology, anatomy, physiology, genetics, and microbiology.

30 credits

This module introduces you to the fascinating world of human physiology, focusing on how the body’s systems work together to maintain health. You will explore key concepts in physiology, learn about the fundamental effects of drugs on the body, and develop essential skills in experimental design and data analysis.  

Through lectures, workshops, and problem-solving challenges, you will also be supported to explore topics in greater depth. Laboratory practicals will provide hands-on experience with selected techniques in experimental design and data analysis. By the end of this module, you will have a solid understanding of how physiological processes are studied and how they relate to broader issues like sustainability, medicines, and human health.

30 credits

This module provides an understanding of how basic chemical elements are bonded to form complex biomolecules in living systems. In this module, we will explore the role and structure of proteins, carbohydrates and lipids and delve into defining their properties and functions. The module will also introduce the vital role of energy transformations in living organisms.  

Core material is delivered through lectures, online resources and activities, and problem-solving workshops supported by laboratory practicals and subsequent data analysis.  

On completion of the module, you will have a comprehensive grounding in the molecular basis of life from the atomic scale up to cells. This module will help you develop the skills necessary for enhancing your learning through effective note-taking and critical thinking, which will continue to help you throughout your degree. 

30 credits

This module provides a firm foundation in the general scientific and laboratory skills students require to successfully complete their programmes of study.  

A significant component of the module consists of the development and demonstration of core technical/practical skills through familiarity with the laboratory environment through hands-on learning.  

This module will also introduce you to Future Skills through engagement with the Navigate programme introducing the key graduate attributes required in developing your professional development portfolio in the biosciences. The Future Skills concepts and activities will support you in developing and evidencing your practice, scientific analytical/problem-solving, teamworking, digital competency, practical and numeracy skills.

30 credits

This second-year module builds on the pharmacology basics you learned in your first year, diving deeper into key topics like pharmacodynamics (how drugs work) and pharmacokinetics (how the body handles drugs). You will develop a more advanced understanding of how drugs are administered, and responses are measured, with a focus on using quantitative methods to assess drug effects. We will also explore the factors that cause differences in how individuals respond to medicines. In addition, the module covers the essentials of toxicology, drug discovery, and development, with an introduction to the regulation of pharmaceutical products and how new drugs are brought to market.

30 credits

This module is designed to deepen your understanding of physiological and pharmacological principles by applying them to key human physiological systems.  

You will gain essential knowledge about various disease processes (such as those affecting the brain, immune, reproductive, and cardiorespiratory systems) and the corresponding drug therapies acting on organs and systems. You will explore the rationale behind clinical drug selection and the mechanisms underpinning potential side effects within and across systems.

30 credits

This module delves into the fascinating world of microorganisms, that play a big role in health and disease. We’ll explore how our immune system responds to these microscopic agents. Through interactive lectures and workshops, we’ll examine various microbiological processes. You will learn about controlling these organisms in laboratory settings and within patients.  

The second part broadens the scope to encompass the wider aspects of biochemistry, pharmacology and beyond. It focuses on developing your Future Skills by engaging with Explore, to enhance your research, problem-solving, and critical thinking abilities, and preparing you for your final year capstone project. This is further supported by tutor meetings, which helps you work on tasks to develop, articulate, and reflect on your progress and graduate attributes.

30 credits

This module builds on topics covered in your first year and explores advanced concepts in cell and molecular biology. The module provides a molecular insight into the structure and function of cells and takes an integrated approach to understand how cells respond to changes in their environment – from receptor interactions and intracellular signalling pathways through to the regulation of gene expression and changes in cellular processes.

You will discover various mechanisms of intracellular signalling in different organisms. You will gain a detailed knowledge of the processes involved in the regulation of gene expression. You will also learn about practical methods relevant to cell and molecular biology, for example fluorescence microscopy, RT-PCR.

30 credits

You will learn about the molecular and cellular basis of neurological and psychiatric disorders and differences. You will explore existing and new pharmacological and other therapies to treat these conditions. This research-driven module will introduce you to a range of topical areas in neuropharmacology, psychopharmacology, neurophysiology and neuroscience, including neurodiversity and neuroplasticity.  

You will experience relevant research techniques, will learn to critically evaluate and discuss different ways of studying the brain, and will explore sustainability and inclusivity aspects of neuropharmacology.

15 credits

This is a core final-year module for pharmacology students, designed to help you dive deep into the entire drug development process from discovering a new target to analysing a drug after it hits the market. Building on what you have learned in first and second year, you will gain industry-relevant skills through authentic assessments, with a flexible curriculum designed to incorporate new technologies and developments, and to promote digital literacy, enterprise, and critical analysis.

We will also address challenges in the wider pharmaceutical industry, including sustainability concerns, sociological and ethical considerations, and issues related to social justice, equity, and inclusivity in bringing drugs to market. Plus, you will hear from guests and alumni who are currently in the field, giving you up-to-date insights and a taste of what lies ahead in your career.

30 credits

This module provides you with an opportunity to learn about drug therapies used in the treatment of both infectious diseases and cancer. Treatments for infectious diseases will cover drugs that have actions on bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, while the cancer therapies will include a range of different neoplastic diseases, including drug treatments for both solid and blood cancers.  

Your lectures will focus on the mode of action, side effects and mechanisms of resistance of antimicrobials and anti-cancer drugs, as well as the development of new drugs.

30 credits

Your independent project forms a very important part of your degree programme. There are several types of projects that may be offered to you: a laboratory or field-based project, data projects involving acquisition of data and information from surveys, computer simulations or bioinformatics, or a systematic review of research literature that includes the collection, analysis, and original presentation of reported research data.  

Your project will include a review and critical evaluation of qualitative and quantitative information and data to address a hypothesis or research question, and the production of a written report.

15 credits

This module gives you a dedicated opportunity to develop your Future Skills Graduate Attributes. 

At the start of the module, you will be supported to self-assess your current skills profile. You will determine which attributes and skills you need to develop to support your career ambitions. In this process, you will be supported by a dedicated career coach, helping you explore a range of options that includes self-employment/freelancing, starting your own business, higher level study, and other professional graduate-level opportunities. Throughout the module, you will be given opportunities to engage with external mentors, to support reflection and to develop a professional network.

You will undertake a tailored series of activities and projects, aligned to your goals, from a menu of development options. This could include short courses, enrichment activities and experiential learning options such as micro-placements. You will also be able to reflect on activities outside the University that develop your graduate attributes, such as work or volunteering.