BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science with Foundation Year

Why study this course with LJMU?

A degree leading to a higher than average salary Graduates highly sought after in the UK's fastest growing manufacturing industries Option to undertake a 12-month industrial placement (placement is not guaranteed) Support from a personal tutor for the duration of your course Wide range of career opportunities in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics, chemical, biotechnological, food, healthcare and related industries 100% of students surveyed said this course was intellectually stimulating (NSS 2024) International Foundation Year course available offering direct progression onto this degree programme

About your course

Completing the BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science with Foundation Year degree programme at Liverpool John Moores University will help you enjoy excellent career prospects and earning potential in a variety of sectors after you graduate.

About the Foundation Year

The Foundation Year is ideal if you have the ability to study for a degree but do not have the qualifications to enter directly onto the Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science honours degree programme.

Once you pass the Foundation Year, you will progress directly onto the first year of the honours degree. If you are a full-time UK student, you will qualify for student financial support for the full duration of your course (subject to eligibility criteria).

About BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science

On this BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science programme you will learn about the science of medicines, from the identification and isolation of biologically active compounds through to the analysis and formulation into medicines for clinical use.

The aim of this degree course is to provide you with knowledge and understanding of core subject matter and first-hand experience of relevant laboratory techniques to enable you to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical or cosmetic industries or progress to further study. The programme has been designed to give you a solid foundation in the subjects that underpin Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science and then to explore how research and development procedures are applied in the industry.

The course will not only give you technological know-how, but also the transferable key skills to give you that competitive edge when it comes to climbing the career ladder. We encourage you take advantage of the opportunity to complete a one year placement after Level 5 as it will give direct experience of working in the industry, helping you identify career options and adding real value to your CV after graduation.

There are three main themes embedded throughout the programme: Chemistry and Analysis; Formulation and Production; and Physiology and Biological Activity. During level 3, students will develop knowledge, understanding and practical skills associated with the study of biology, chemistry and general science. Core modules have been designed to provide basic understanding and knowledge of general scientific principles and methodologies. These are supported with training in laboratory methods as well as other practical and key skills.

In levels 4 and 5, the subjects that underpin Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science are explored in depth and then in level 6 the focus is on more advanced principles and techniques and how the research and development procedures are applied in the industry.

Course modules

What you will study on this degree

• Human Anatomy and Physiology (20 credits)
• Fundamental Science Skills (20 credits)
• Introduction to Chemistry (20 credits)
• Introduction to Biochemistry and Cell Biology (20 credits)
• Introduction to Molecular Biology and Genetics (20 credits)
• Further Chemistry (20 credits)
• Physical Properties (20 credits)
• Organic Chemistry (20 credits)
• Principles of Human Biology and Disease (20 credits)
• Formulation Science (20 credits)
• Analytical Chemistry (20 credits)
• Biologically Active Molecules (20 credits)
• Pharmaceutical Formulation (20 credits)
• Synthetic and Natural Drugs (20 credits)
• Principles of Pharmacology (20 credits)
• Sterile Pharmaceutical Products (20 credits)
• Pharmaceutical Analysis (20 credits)
• Principles of Cosmetic Products (20 credits)
• Sandwich Year - Pharmaceutical Science (120 credits)
• Study Year Abroad - Pharmaceutical Science (120 credits)
• Study Semester Abroad - Pharmaceutical Science (60 credits)
• Research Methods and Project (40 credits)
• Industrial Product Development (20 credits)
• Advanced Pharmaceutical Analysis (20 credits)
• Advanced Delivery Systems (20 credits)
• Safety Assessment of Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics (20 credits)

Your Learning Experience

Teaching Support Assessment

• Excellent facilities and learning resources
• Active blended learning approach
• Face-to-face and online learning
• Personal tutor support
• Work-related learning
• Dedicated personal tutor, plus study skills support

Career paths

Successful graduates can enjoy above average salaries in these fast-growing sectors.

The pharmaceutical and cosmetic industries continue to be strong in terms of turnover and employment and consequently there is a high demand for graduates in these scientific disciplines. This degree programme is the ideal platform from which to launch your career as it is designed to meet the high demand for highly skilled and technology literate people to help these industries continue to be innovative and compete on a global scale. As a Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science graduate you can expect a career in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, chemical, biotechnological, food, healthcare and related industries, in fields such as research and development, formulation science, quality control, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, clinical trial management, process development or product registration.

Graduates can also choose to continue their studies at LJMU by undertaking one of the many postgraduate masters courses available, such as MSc Drug Discovery, Development and Delivery, MSc Industrial Biotechnology or MSc Cosmetic Science.

Tuition fees and funding

Home International

• Full-time per year: £9,250
• Placement year: £1,850
• Full-time per year: £18,250
• Placement year: £3,830

Entry requirements

• Grades/points required from qualifications: CCD-CCC (88-96)
• GCSEs and equivalents: Grade 4 or grade C or above in English Language and Mathematics/Numeracy
• A levels: CCD-CCC
• BTECs: Extended Diploma: MMM (96)
• Access awards: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
• OCR Cambridge Technical: Extended Diploma: MMM (96)
• Irish awards: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
• T levels: Acceptable on its own and combined with other qualifications
• International requirements: IELTS 6.0 overall with no component below 5.5, taken within two years of the course start date.

How to apply

UCAS is the official application route for our full-time undergraduate courses. Further information on the UCAS application process can be found here.

Your university life

From accommodation and academic support to clubs and societies. Find out what LJMU has to offer.

• Accommodation
• Your future awaits
• Living in Liverpool
• Your campus
• Go Abroad
• Sports, societies and lifestyle

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• BSc (Hons) Midwifery
• FDSc Nursing Associate Degree Apprenticeship
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• BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science

It equips students with the knowledge and practical skills necessary for a successful career in the pharmaceutical or cosmetic industries or for further study.

• Description: This program offers a solid foundation in the core subjects of Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science, exploring research and development procedures applied in the industry.
It covers three main themes: Chemistry and Analysis, Formulation and Production, and Physiology and Biological Activity. The program emphasizes developing technological know-how and transferable key skills for career advancement. Students have the option to complete a one-year industrial placement after Level 5, providing valuable industry experience and enhancing their CV.

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Outline:

• Content: The program covers a wide range of topics, including:
• Chemistry and Analysis:
Physical chemistry, organic chemistry, analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical analysis, advanced pharmaceutical analysis.
• Formulation and Production: Formulation science, pharmaceutical formulation, sterile pharmaceutical products, industrial product development, advanced delivery systems.
• Physiology and Biological Activity: Human anatomy and physiology, principles of human biology and disease, biologically active molecules, principles of pharmacology, safety assessment of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
• Structure: The program is structured over five years, including a Foundation Year and a four-year honors degree.
The Foundation Year is designed for students who lack the qualifications for direct entry into the honors degree. Upon successful completion of the Foundation Year, students progress directly to the first year of the honors degree.
• Course Schedule:
• Level 3:
Introduces basic scientific principles and methodologies, including human anatomy and physiology, fundamental science skills, introduction to chemistry, biochemistry and cell biology, molecular biology and genetics, and further chemistry.
• Level 4: Explores the subjects that underpin Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science in depth, covering physical properties, organic chemistry, principles of human biology and disease, formulation science, analytical chemistry, and biologically active molecules.
• Level 5: Focuses on advanced principles and techniques, including pharmaceutical formulation, synthetic and natural drugs, principles of pharmacology, sterile pharmaceutical products, pharmaceutical analysis, and principles of cosmetic products.
Students can choose optional modules like a sandwich year placement, study year abroad, or study semester abroad.
• Level 6: Emphasizes research and development procedures applied in the industry, covering research methods and project, industrial product development, advanced pharmaceutical analysis, advanced delivery systems, and safety assessment of pharmaceuticals and cosmetics.
• Individual Modules:
• Human Anatomy and Physiology:
Develops knowledge and understanding of the basic structure and function of key physiological systems and metabolic processes.
• Fundamental Science Skills: Provides and develops the basic skills required for successful study in molecular bioscience areas.
• Introduction to Chemistry: Covers introductory laboratory skills and fundamental physical and inorganic chemistry concepts, alongside a brief introduction to organic chemistry.
• Further Chemistry: Covers fundamental organic chemistry concepts.
• Physical Properties: Introduces the basic principles of physical chemistry as they relate to the formulation of drug products.
• Organic Chemistry: Explores the structure, bonding, functionality, and reactions of organic molecules with specific reference to pharmaceutically important drugs.
• Principles of Human Biology and Disease: Explores principles of human physiology and pathology with respect to homeostatic mechanisms.
• Formulation Science: Introduces the physicochemical properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients and the basic principles of pharmaceutical formulation.
• Analytical Chemistry: Provides a basic, practical, and relevant mathematical and analytical chemistry foundation for the quantitative aspects of all Pharmaceutical modules.
• Pharmaceutical Formulation: Introduces the formulation, manufacture, and testing of solid oral pharmaceutical dosage forms (tablets and capsules) as well as the development of oral modified release dosage forms.
• Synthetic and Natural Drugs: Presents and illustrates the principles and processes involved in the discovery, acquisition, and analysis of a range of natural, synthetic, and biotechnologically produced drugs.
• Principles of Pharmacology: Develops knowledge of the anatomical, physiological, and pharmacological organization of biological systems.
• Sterile Pharmaceutical Products: Covers the formulation, preparation, manufacture, and quality control of sterile products.
• Pharmaceutical Analysis: Develops knowledge, practical experience, and interpretation skills necessary for the quantitative and qualitative analysis of chemical species relevant to the pharmaceutical industry.
• Principles of Cosmetic Products: Develops knowledge of the scientific principles applied in the preparation and analysis of cosmetic products.
• Sandwich Year - Pharmaceutical Science: Provides students with an extended period of work experience at an approved partner, complementing their program of study at LJMU.
• Study Year Abroad - Pharmaceutical Science: Provides students with an additional year of study at an approved overseas partner, complementing their program at LJMU.
• Study Semester Abroad - Pharmaceutical Science: Provides students with a semester of study at an approved overseas partner, replacing one semester of their LJMU program at level 5.
• Research Methods and Project: Enables students to plan, execute, and report results of a research project in the area of pharmaceutical sciences, using a range of appropriate resources and methodology.
• Advanced Pharmaceutical Analysis: Provides the concepts and practical experience necessary for a career in an analytical role in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Advanced Delivery Systems: Presents and illustrates methods for the formulation and application of advanced drug delivery systems.
• Safety Assessment of Pharmaceuticals and Cosmetics: Provides an awareness and understanding of preclinical testing and management and regulation of clinical trials in the process of drug development.

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Assessment:

• Methods: Assessment varies depending on the modules chosen but typically includes a combination of exams and coursework.
Assessment styles include laboratory reports, essays, presentations, online exercises, and formative assessments.
• Criteria: Most modules have an assessment weighting of 60% Exam: 40% coursework.
Examinations comprise multiple-choice questions, written answers, or problem-based questions. Feedback is provided on all formatively and summatively assessed coursework, normally within 15 working days after the assessment deadline.

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Teaching:

• Methods: The program adopts an active blended learning approach, combining face-to-face and online learning.
This includes lectures, workshops, tutorials, online activities, and laboratory practical sessions.
• Faculty: The program is taught by experienced and dedicated staff committed to high standards of teaching and learning.
• Unique Approaches: The program emphasizes learning through problem-solving and data interpretation, developing practical, research, and transferable skills.

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Careers:

• Potential Career Paths: Graduates can pursue careers in the pharmaceutical, cosmetic, chemical, biotechnological, food, healthcare, and related industries.
• Opportunities: Career fields include research and development, formulation science, quality control, quality assurance, regulatory affairs, clinical trial management, process development, and product registration.
The program utilizes state-of-the-art laboratories and teaching spaces, providing a first-class study environment.
• Support and Guidance: Students are allocated a personal tutor for the duration of their course and participate in small tutorial groups.
Individual support is also available from supervisors during research projects. The school promotes a learning environment that supports equality, diversity, and inclusivity (EDI).
• Go Abroad: LJMU offers international opportunities for students, including study abroad programs, work placements, internships, and summer schools.
The Go Citizen Scheme helps with costs towards volunteering, individual projects, or unpaid placements worldwide.

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Tuition fees

• Home full-time per year: £9,250
• International full-time per year: £18,250
• International year 2: £1,850
• Placement year international: £3,830
All figures are subject to yearly increases. Tuition fees are subject to parliamentary approval.

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Overview:

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is a public university located in Liverpool, England. It is a large and diverse institution with a strong focus on providing high-quality education and research opportunities.

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Services Offered:

LJMU offers a wide range of services to its students, including:

Accommodation:

On-campus and off-campus accommodation options are available for students.

Student Support:

The university provides comprehensive support services, including academic advising, career counseling, financial aid, and mental health resources.

Library:

LJMU has a well-equipped library with extensive resources and study spaces.

Student Futures:

This service helps students with career planning, job searching, and employability skills development.

International Student Support:

Dedicated support is available for international students, including visa guidance and cultural adjustment programs.

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Student Life and Campus Experience:

LJMU offers a vibrant and engaging campus experience for its students. Key aspects include:

Sports, Societies, and Lifestyle:

Students can participate in a wide range of sports clubs, societies, and social events.

Campus:

The university has multiple campuses located in Liverpool, providing a diverse and stimulating environment.

Go Abroad:

LJMU offers opportunities for students to study abroad and gain international experience.

Volunteering:

Students can engage in volunteering activities and contribute to the local community.

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Key Reasons to Study There:

Strong Academic Reputation:

LJMU is known for its high-quality teaching and research.

Diverse Programs:

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across various disciplines.

Location:

Liverpool is a vibrant and culturally rich city, providing students with a stimulating and enjoyable living experience.

Student Support:

LJMU provides comprehensive support services to ensure student success.

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Academic Programs:

LJMU offers a wide range of academic programs, including:

Undergraduate:

Bachelor's degrees in various fields, including business, law, health sciences, engineering, and the arts.

Postgraduate:

Master's degrees, PhD programs, and other postgraduate qualifications.

Degree Apprenticeships:

Programs that combine work experience with academic study.

Continuing Professional Development:

Short courses and programs for professionals seeking to enhance their skills.