Program Overview
Program Overview
The program in question is "Drugs and the Mind" (PHAR0003), offered by the Faculty of Life Sciences at UCL.
Key Information
- Faculty: Faculty of Life Sciences
- Teaching department: Division of Biosciences
- Credit value: 15
- Restrictions: N/A
Alternative Credit Options
There are no alternative credit options available for this module.
Description
This module focuses on the central nervous system (CNS) and the actions and effects of drugs used for medical and non-medical reasons. It provides a basic understanding of the effects and functions of neurotransmitters in the CNS, the symptoms and characteristics of diseases and disorders of the brain, the pharmacological treatment of these problems, and the use and effects of recreational drugs. Elements of physiology, psychology, and medical sciences are integral to the course. Teaching is delivered via lectures, group discussions, and a practical session.
Learning Outcomes
On completion of the course, students will be able to:
- Describe the neurotransmitter systems of the CNS and drug effects thereon.
- Understand how to evaluate effects of common drugs in humans and the practical problems this presents.
- Acquire, handle, and analyse data (practical) and assess information (lectures).
- Work in groups to carry out experiments and discuss issues from transmitter actions to the treatment of disease and the recreational use of street drugs.
- Take 3rd year neuroscience related modules including PHAR0010 Neuropharmacology and ANAT0013 Pain.
Indicative Lecture Topics
- Transmitter systems
- Benzodiazepines and Barbiturates
- Pharmacokinetics
- Depression
- Pain and Analgesics
- Anxiety States
- Nootropics
- Parkinson's and Alzheimer's Diseases
- Schizophrenia
- Drugs and society
- Dependence mechanisms
- Stimulants
- Cannabis
- Psychedelics
- Drug Dependence- causes and consequences
Practical Class
In addition to the lecture content, the module includes a practical class which involves student volunteers consuming alcohol or caffeine and measuring the impact of these substances on physiological function.
Module Deliveries for 2026/27 Academic Year
- Intended teaching term: Terms 1 and 2
- Undergraduate (FHEQ Level 5)
Teaching and Assessment
- Mode of study: In person
- Methods of assessment:
- 30% Coursework
- 70% Exam
- Mark scheme: Numeric Marks
Other Information
- Number of students on module in previous year: 99
- Module leader: Dr Daniel Ward