Program Overview

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MSc Pharmaceutical & Analytical Science

Overview

Unique to Scotland, this two-year programme will prepare graduates for careers in the pharmaceutical sector and allied industries. It is designed to equip students with versatile skills in the theoretical understanding, practical execution, and critical evaluation of pharmaceutical science principles.

Mode of Study

Full-time

Duration

2 years

Start date

January

Course details

This programme provides the opportunity to acquire versatile skills in the theoretical understanding, practical execution, and critical evaluation of Pharmaceutical Science principles to underpin chosen professional careers. In addition, a specific aim is to enhance theoretical understanding and practical application of analytical science in pharmaceutical disciplines.

• Develop broad knowledge in contemporary pharmaceutics and pharmacology
• Gain an in-depth critical understanding of current research in biotechnology and pharmaceutical science
• Develop broad knowledge of current pharmaceutical analysis and quality control strategies
• Learn about GMP and GLP compliance
• Focus on developing analytical and practical laboratory skills with many opportunities for hands-on experience in a range of current techniques and practices

Timeline

This is a two-stage programme run over two years. The first stage will allow students to develop key skills and an understanding of best practice around learning and assessment, enabling them to be more effectively prepared to undertake the modules in the second stage of study, which will further deepen their knowledge of the subject.

Stage 1: Trimester 1

• 3 Taught compulsory modules:
  1. Professional Practice 1 (20 credits)
  2. Scientific Communication (20 credits)
  3. Pharmaceutics: Small Molecules (20 credits)

Stage 1: Trimester 2

• 3 Taught compulsory modules:
  1. Professional Practice 2 (20 credits)
  2. Pharmaceutics: Macromolecules (20 credits)
  3. Analytical methods in Drug Development (20 credits)

Continuation of study requirements

In order to progress from stage 1 to stage 2, students must pass all modules at stage 1 (pass rate 50%) and obtain 120 credits. Stage 1 modules are not eligible for repeat module decisions.

Stage 2: Trimester 1

• 3 Taught compulsory modules:
  1. Drug Design and Chemotherapy (20 credits)
  2. Research Skills (20 credits)
  3. Quality Control and Pharmaceutical Analysis (20 credits)

Stage 2: Trimester 2

• 3 Taught compulsory modules:
  1. Current Practice in Drug Discovery (20 credits)
  2. Current Research in Pharmaceutical Science (20 credits)
  3. Pharmacology and Pharmaceutics (20 credits)

Continuation of study requirements

To progress to the final research project module (60 credits), students must successfully complete 100 credits of their Stage 2 taught compulsory modules, which must include the Research Skills module.

Modules

• Analytical methods in drug development (BMS10112)
• Current Practice in Drug Development (BMS11104)
• Current Research in Pharmaceutical Science (BMS11111)
• Drug Design and Chemotherapy (BMS11105)
• Pharmaceutics: Small Molecules (BMS08109)
• Pharmaceutics: Macromolecules (BMS09114)
• Pharmacology & Pharmaceutics (BMS11112)
• Professional Practice 1 (BMS08108)
• Professional Practice 2 (BMS10111)
• Quality Control & Pharmaceutical Analysis (MIC11113)
• Research Skills (MIC11107)
• Scientific Communication and Data Handling (BMS09113)

Disclaimer

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Entry requirements

What are the entry requirements for Pharmaceutical and Analytical Science?

The entry requirement for Stage 1 of this course is a Bachelor (Honours) Degree with a background in subjects such as biomedical sciences, chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacy, pharmacology, pharmaceutical or medicinal chemistry, microbiology and/or biotechnology at a 2:2 or above.

We may also consider other qualifications or experience which demonstrate through our recognition of prior learning process that you have appropriate knowledge and skills such as a degree-equivalent qualification in a relevant biomolecular discipline as per above, plus a minimum of two years relevant post-qualification work experience.

Can I get admission in Pharmaceutical and Analytical Science based on my working experience in this sector?

This course has academic entry requirements which are assessed alongside relevant work experience. Full details of any relevant work experience, including references should be submitted with your application and may be considered for entry where the minimum academic entry requirements are below those required.

Can I make an appointment with an advisor to discuss further about the admission process?

If you want to get more information on the admission process, please get in touch with the Postgraduate admissions team.

English language

As all learning, teaching and assessment activities are conducted in English, if your first language is not English you must have a minimum International English Language Testing System score of 6.0 with all four elements having a score of at least 5.5

This may not apply if you have completed all your school qualifications in English, or your undergraduate degree was taught and examined in English (within two years of starting your postgraduate course). Check our country pages to find out if this applies to you.

International students

We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.

Admissions policies

We’re committed to admitting students who have the potential to succeed and benefit from our programmes of study.

Fees & funding

Tuition fees for 2024/25

• Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland: £10,525
• Overseas and EU: £12,530

You study this course over two academic years, fees listed are per annum. Tuition fees are subject to an annual review and may increase from one year to the next.

Careers

With a two-year Master’s degree in Pharmaceutical & Analytical Science, you can take advantage of the increased opportunities for advancement in the pharmaceutical, healthcare or bioscience sectors, as discovery or development scientists, in research leadership, development or management roles. You may develop your career in global pharmaceutical companies, smaller developing biotechnology enterprises, contract drug testing companies or service providers to the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, hospital laboratories, or in local government, or health and safety divisions in industry.

Successful completion of the programme also provides a sound platform for PhD study across the pharmaceutical and bio-molecular sciences, in worldwide academic and research institutions.