Program Overview

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Program Overview

The BSc Hons Microbiology & Pharmacology program at the University of Strathclyde is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of microbiology and pharmacology. The program is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology and is ranked 1st in the UK for Pharmacology & Pharmacy and for subjects allied to Medicine (Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025).

Key Facts

• UCAS Code: C502
• Accreditation: Royal Society of Biology
• Ranking: 1st in the UK for Pharmacology & Pharmacy and for subjects allied to Medicine (Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2025)
• Flexible degree: Students have the flexibility to change to other Biomolecular Science courses throughout their studies

Study with Us

The program involves the study of the smallest living organisms, such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, algae, and protozoa, as well as the understanding of how drugs and other chemicals affect the functions of the body. The courses are underpinned by a strong research base, links with industry, the NHS, and international partners.

Why this Course?

Pharmacology is the study of how drugs and other chemicals affect the body in health and disease. This area explores the development of new and improved medicines and the treatment of disease. Microbiology is the study of the smallest living organisms (micro-organisms or microbes) and includes viruses, bacteria, fungi, algae, and protozoa. Microbes are a major cause of disease in humans but can also be useful in industrial processes from pollution control to the production of important therapeutic compounds.

What You'll Study

The program covers a range of topics, including:

• Cells and their molecules
• Organisms and diseases
• Bio-organic chemistry
• Introduction to biochemistry, immunology, microbiology, and pharmacology
• Advanced microbiology and pharmacology
• Optional modules, such as clinical microbiology, applied microbiology, clinical pharmacology, and applied pharmacology

Years 1 & 2

In the first two years, students study the same classes, which include:

• Being a Biomolecular Scientist 1 and 2
• Cells & their Molecules
• Organisms & Disease
• Bio-Organic Chemistry
• Introduction to Biochemistry, Immunology, Microbiology, and Pharmacology

Years 3 & 4

In the final two years, students specialize in the area in which they plan to graduate. The Honours year involves carrying out a research project in either subject and presenting a dissertation of the work. Students can also take part in enterprise projects of commercial significance for a pharmaceutical or biotechnology company in the west of Scotland.

Work Placement

The university offers opportunities for students to engage with research full-time in the summer preceding their final year. Since 2010, 47 undergraduate students have benefited from summer internships, of which 27 were funded by external organizations.

Major Projects

Students have the opportunity to take part in a Vertically Integrated Project (VIP@Strath). These projects give students from first year through to postgraduate level the opportunity to work with staff in multi-disciplinary teams on cutting-edge research and development projects.

Student Competitions

Prizes for the best students are awarded each year by a number of societies, including the British Society of Immunology, British Physiological Society, the Institute of Biomedical Science, and the Royal Society of Biology.

Assessment

Knowledge and understanding are assessed by written examinations, essays, presentations, and computer-aided learning (CAL) exercises and quizzes. Competence is assessed through practical tests, practical write-ups, project reports, and CAL exercises and quizzes.

Learning & Teaching

Students gain knowledge and understanding through around 240 hours of lectures, including review-type lectures, practical classes, tutorials, and computer-aided learning.

Entry Requirements

The required subjects are shown in brackets. The standard entry requirements are:

• Highers: AABB/AAAC (two sciences – Biology/Human Biology B and Chemistry B; Maths and English National 5 B)
• Advanced Highers: BB (Chemistry B, Biology/Human Biology B, plus Year 1 above)
• A Levels: BBB (two sciences required, at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry; GCSE Chemistry 6/B (if not at A Level); GCSE Maths 6/B, GCSE English Language 6/B or Literature 6/B)
• International Baccalaureate: 30 (Two science subjects at HL5 at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry. Maths SL5 and English SL5)

Fees & Funding

The fees for the program are:

• Scotland: £1,820
• England, Wales & Northern Ireland: £9,535
• Republic of Ireland: If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status.
• International: £27,800

Careers

Many graduates work in the development of drugs, food processing, protecting the environment, fighting disease, or slowing the ageing process. They work in a variety of positions, including research in academia, NHS & private sector laboratory technician, and clinical support worker. The Institute of Biomedical Science accreditation of the BSc Honours in Biomedical Science ensures that this degree meets the academic requirements for registration as a biomedical scientist.

Discover Uni

92% of students were satisfied overall with their course. 92% of students say teaching staff have supported their learning well. 100% are in work or doing further study 15 months after the course.