Program Overview

Pharmacology BSc (Hons)

Course Overview

The Pharmacology BSc (Hons) degree at Bangor University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the science behind drugs and their effects on the human body. The course aligns with the undergraduate curriculum guidelines for core skills and knowledge outlined by the British Pharmacological Society (BPS) and covers the full lifecycle of medicines, from discovery and development to clinical testing, licensing, and medical use.

Course Structure

The course is structured over three years, with optional additional years for international experience or placement. The first year provides a foundation in the core biological sciences, including human physiology and anatomy, cell biology, chemistry, and biochemistry. The second year builds on this foundation, introducing students to the principles of pharmacology, toxicology, and pharmacogenomics. The third year focuses on specialized topics, including medical pharmacology, cancer pharmacology, and drug development.

Modules

• Foundations in Therapeutics: Introduction to the core concepts of pharmacology, including pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.
• Human Physiology and Anatomy: Study of the structure and function of the human body, including the nervous, circulatory, and respiratory systems.
• Introduction to Cell Biology: Exploration of cell structure, function, and regulation, including cellular processes and signaling pathways.
• Chemistry and Biochemistry: Foundation in the fundamental principles of general chemistry and biochemistry, including atomic structure, chemical bonding, and metabolic pathways.
• Applied Laboratory Sciences: Development of practical laboratory skills, including Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and essential laboratory techniques.
• Key Skills in Medical Science: Development of critical thinking, communication, and research skills, including data analysis and interpretation.

Year 2 Modules

• Professional Practice: Introduction to transferable skills essential for biomedical, medical science, and pharmacology vocations.
• Molecular Biology and Biochemistry: In-depth study of molecular processes, including DNA replication, genetic information, and cellular energy production.
• Applied Pharmacology Practicals: Hands-on development of laboratory skills in pharmacology, including experimental techniques and data analysis.
• Toxicology and Drug Safety: Introduction to the subject of toxicology and the factors that influence toxicity, including selective toxicity and toxicant effects.
• Principles of Pharmacology: Exploration of the core concepts of pharmacology, including pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics.

Year 3 Modules

• Medical Pharmacology and Pharmacogenomics: Study of personalized pharmacology, including factors that influence drug response and management of medical conditions.
• Cancer Pharmacology: Introduction to the basics of cancer biology and the mechanisms of anti-cancer drug effects.
• Drug Development and Pharmacoeconomics: Overview of the pharmaceutical industry, including drug discovery, development, and health technology assessment.
• Research Project: Independent research project, addressing real-world questions in biomedical science, under expert supervision.

Careers

Pharmacology graduates can pursue a range of careers, including:

• Analytical chemist
• Business analyst
• Pharmaceutical marketing manager
• Pharmacologist
• Research scientist (life sciences/medical)
• Scientific copywriter
• Scientific laboratory technician
• Toxicologist

Fees and Costs

• Tuition Fees: Ł9,790 (UK and Ireland), Ł21,000 (International)
• Placement Year Fee: Ł1,958
• International Experience Year Fee: Ł1,468

Welsh Provision

Bangor University offers a range of opportunities for students to study through the medium of Welsh, including:

• Scholarships and Bursaries: Financial support for students studying through the medium of Welsh.
• Bilingual Community: Opportunities to use and develop Welsh language skills, including accommodation for Welsh-speaking students and a full program of Welsh cultural events.
• Support to Study through the Medium of Welsh: Academic support, including Welsh language support, study skills support, and student support.