Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the study of how drugs work in the body. This includes any type of chemical or biological agent that produces an effect on the body including medicines, drugs of abuse, poisons, and chemicals in the food we eat and drink. There are two aspects to pharmacology: the effect of the drug on the body, and the effect of the body on the drug.

In this course we aim to answer some of the biggest questions we have surrounding drugs and medicine today and for the future. In year one, you will study a number of core modules covering physiology, biochemistry, neuroscience and medicinal chemistry. In the second year, you will start to focus on the pharmacology of current drugs and drug targets, and in the third year you will learn about the recent advances in pharmacology, and the application of pharmacology in the drug discovery process.

Pharmacologists are at the centre of developing medicines to revolutionise the treatment of diseases. These include:

• life-saving antibiotics

• hypertension

• asthma

• depression

• statins to reduce cardiovascular disease

• revolutionary retroviral drugs to manage HIV

• biologic based medicines (RNA, antibodies)

Pharmacology can lead to a fulfilling career in medicines research or an industry that improves the lives of people around the world in areas such as drug discovery, medicines development, medical writing, regulatory affairs and pharmaceutical marketing.

Why choose this course?

• Top 10 course in the world and 4th in the UK 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)

• Benefit from small-group teaching that support your learning

• Be supported by a personal tutor to provide academic and pastoral advice throughout your degree

• Active research staff teaching experience-based learning on the latest research developments and expertise

• Gain practical laboratory experience throughout your course

In the first year you'll take core modules in cell biology and human physiology. You'll also begin to learn pharmacology-specific skills and to understand the basics of drug design.

Teaching in the second year focuses on scientific knowledge related specifically to pharmacology and drug discovery. You'll learn many of the core concepts outlined in the British Pharmacological Society core curriculum, and relate these to the treatment of disease.

In year three the modules place emphasis on current and possible future advances in pharmacology. You'll learn about more advanced topics in pharmacology, toxicology, therapeutics and medicines production. There is also a lab-based research project in your final year.