Pharmacology

取得日期：未有保存

https://www.uwl.ac.uk/course/undergraduate/pharmacology?start=1898&option=33

BSc (Hons) Pharmacology | University of West London

Skip to main content

Search Open menu Close menu

Current students

New students

Returning students

Support for students

Semester and term dates

Policies and regulations

Learning tools and resources

Your feedback

Studying off campus

IT Services

Results and graduation

Student Portal

Student handbook

Student news

Search UWL.ac.uk

Undergraduate

BSc (Hons) Pharmacology

Full-timeFull-time with placementPart-time

September 2027

Fees per year†

£17,250 – International

£10,050 – UK

Duration

Location

Overview

Course details

Our students

Entry and fees

Facilities

Teaching staff

Related courses

How to apply

Register for open day

Start date

Ever taken an aspirin for a headache, or been given an anaesthetic for a filling and wondered how drugs are developed?

If you want to be involved in the areas of drug research, testing or discovery and development, then a pharmacology degree could be for you.

Pharmacology is the science of how medicines work. As part of this course, you will study how drugs act on the human body (and vice versa), how drugs’ physical and chemical properties affect their biological properties, and how pharmacology contributes to the discovery and development of new medicines and treatments.

This pharmacology course will cover the drugs that affect major systems of the body, including the central nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory and endocrine systems. Topics covered include discovery and development of new medicines, pharmacological testing, toxicology and study of drugs against infections, cancer and neurological disorders.

Through this pharmacology degree, you will gain in-depth knowledge of a wide range of drug classes, drug safety and efficacy and drug action. It will also give you skills to succeed in a wide range of careers ranging from lab-based drug analysis to clinical trials.

Accreditation

This degree has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills. All students on Accredited programmes will receive free Royal Society of Biology membership.

Why study this course?

Number 1 modern** London university for Pharmacology and Pharmacy - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027

Our Biomedical Science courses are ranked 1st in London and 3rd in the UK - National Student Survey 2026*

Top London university for student experience in subjects allied to Medicine - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2027

2nd London university for overall student satisfaction - National Student Survey 2026*

Course accreditation

Previous

Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to

see relevant course information:

Study options:

We support flexible study by offering some of our courses part-time or via distance learning. To give you real world experience before you graduate, we also offer some courses with a placement or internship. All available options are listed here. Your choices may affect some details of your course, such as the duration and cost per year. Please re-check the details on this page if you change your selection.

Full-time

Duration: 3 years

Full-time with placement

Duration: 4 years

Part-time

Duration: 6 years

With Foundation Year

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available,

try selecting a different study option.

What you'll study

The first year of the pharmacology degree will equip you with a thorough understanding of the scientific basis of pharmacology, in biochemistry, genetics and immunology.

You will learn practical laboratory skills while gaining an overall picture of the human organism and its essential functions. Subjects covered include:

microbiology

the structural features of all cells that make up the living system

fundamental genetic mechanisms essential for the evolution of life and function

the genetics and molecular biology underpinning human biology and health.

The modules in the second year build on the action of drugs on their target sites and the action of the body on drugs once administered. You will become familiar with the common laboratory techniques and practical methods used in pharmacology.

This year includes practical sessions which build on the lab-based techniques required, as well as good laboratory practice for diagnosing diseases alongside health and safety requirements.

At this level you will gain further insight into scientific methods, writing laboratory reports, essays and assignments, data interpretation exercises and critical analysis of cases. You will also develop the ability to communicate with your peers through oral presentations.

In the final year, you will independently pursue a research project, allowing you to explore a topic of interest. For example, this may be studying drugs used to prevent cancer or infectious diseases, or analgesics and antidepressants which act on the peripheral nerves and the brain, respectively.

This will give you an insight into your proposed pathway for your career, be it medical research or, working in a pharmaceutical company.

Placement year*

You can choose to add an optional placement year to develop your employability skillset and enhance professional development and career prospects. You will undertake 45 weeks of full-time employment relevant to biomedical sciences.

It also aims to enhance and develop your personal and interpersonal skills, knowledge and practical abilities through an individually negotiated portfolio of activities.

* There is no guarantee that you will be successful in securing a placement in the UK in the future. If you choose a course with a placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route. This is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree. The placement route for this course is open to UK students only.

Please note, we regularly review our course content to offer relevant, impactful and career-shaping learning. Therefore, the following modules are indicative and subject to change.

Compulsory modules

Cell and Microbiology

The aim of this module is to provide a comprehensive understanding of cell biology and microbiology, focusing on the structure, function, and dynamics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, as well as the study of microorganisms.

You will explore various topics, including cell division, the cell as the fundamental unit of life, cell specialisation, microorganism structure and physiology, identification and classification of microorganisms, control of microorganisms, causes and pathology of common diseases, lifestyle impact on human health, investigation and diagnosis of diseases, therapeutic strategies, human life cycles and aging, and the role of stem cells in regenerative medicine.

By the end of the module, you will have acquired knowledge and skills necessary for understanding the intricate relationship between cells, microorganisms, and human health.

Essential Skills for Bioscientists

This module has been designed to support you in developing the core technical and transferable skills required to study, undertake research, and communicate effectively on topics in the Biosciences. You will arrive at University with a wide range of skills and proficiencies, so this module aims to support your transition and equip you with the essential skills you need at later stages of the course.

Fundamentals of Chemistry

The aim of this module is to provide an appropriate foundation in core concepts of physical and quantitative Chemistry for you across different disciplines including biochemistry, biomedical sciences, biological sciences, and pharmacology.

Using workshops and practical sessions, this module will deliver an integrated understanding of matter, and the connection between the structure of atoms, molecules and compounds and their physical and chemical properties (eg, bonding and energy).

It also supports you in developing quantitative skills for solving chemistry calculation problems that form the basis of many analytical methods eg, spectrophotometry, chromatography etc.

Fundamentals of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

The aim of this module is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the key principles, concepts and terminologies of biochemistry and molecular biology. It aims to explore the structure and function of biological molecules (DNA, RNA, protein, enzymes, lipids and carbohydrates) as well as the biochemistry of processes that support life and metabolism. These concepts will be taught using lectures, tutorials, and lab practicals.

Genetics and Disease

This module provides knowledge and understanding of the structure of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and how these molecules encode the properties of cells – providing you with a basic grounding in the genetics and molecular biology underpinning human biology and health.

Human Anatomy and Physiology

The module will enable you to understand and gain experience of the structure and function of the main human organs. It explores how homeostasis is maintained through regulation via processes such as alteration in blood flow, neuronal input and endocrine control. The module will also teach you to understand the common methodologies used to analyse and measure physiological parameters and to interpret common abnormalities found in the clinical investigation of patients.

Bioinformatics and Systems Biology

The aim of this module is to provide you with a robust foundation in bioinformatics and computational biology. By combining the exploration of computational tools for high-throughput biological data analysis with in-depth network analysis and modelling, the module aims to foster critical thinking, practical skills, and interdisciplinary collaboration.

Through these learning experiences, you will be equipped to comprehend complex biological data, apply computational methods effectively, and interpret network properties, thereby preparing them to contribute meaningfully to the field of bioinformatics and systems biology.

Fundamentals of Pharmacology

The aim of this module is to help you understand how drugs work in the body to prevent and treat diseases. You will learn about how drugs interact with the body, how doses affect responses, different ways drugs can be given, types of drugs, how the body processes and removes drugs, and the potential side effects of drugs. You will also explore methods for discovering new drugs and the idea of personalised medicine.

Research, Development and Leadership

This module aims to equip you with comprehensive knowledge, skills, and practical experience in research, evidence-based practice, clinical audit, innovation, and collaborative teamwork in biomedical and biosciences contexts.

Infection and Immunity

This module aims to provide you with an in-depth knowledge of the current concepts of basic immunology as well as continue to build on your infection knowledge from Level 4 with respect to diseases you may encounter in the clinic.

Theoretical concepts are reinforced through laboratory practical sessions which will introduce you to diagnostic microbiological and basic immunological techniques and data analysis which are broadly used in a variety of clinical settings and scientific disciplines.

Neuroscience, Endocrine and Gastrointestinal Pharmacology

On this module, you will gain an understanding of the operation of the nervous, endocrine and gastrointestinal systems. In addition, you will learn about the various disorders and how drugs are used for their treatment.

Proteins and Enzymes

This module provides a comprehensive introduction to modern protein science including investigating the relationship between protein structure and function, techniques for analysing protein sequences and for determining protein structure. The opportunities provided by genetic approaches to engineer proteins and their therapeutic and biotechnology applications will also be discussed.

Final Year Research Project

The 40-credit module aims to equip you to plan and produce a small-scale research project relevant to your own area of interest. You will learn to develop an appreciation of how scientific knowledge advances through research including the challenges and limitations. With the support of a supervisor, and shared discussions with other students, you will work independently to carry out a research project to completion.

Antimicrobial, Antineoplastic and Neuropharmacology

This module will provide an understanding mechanisms of action and practical applications of antibacterial and antiviral agents, chemotherapeutic agents used in treatment of cancer as well as medicines that are used for neurological disorders and neurodegenerative diseases.

Cardiovascular, Respiratory and Renal Pharmacology

The module provides an understanding of the regulation and function of the respiratory, cardiovascular and renal systems. You will learn in detail how any dysfunction of these systems may be addressed by using the appropriate drugs. You will also learn what side effects if any can be attributed to the drugs, how these can cause disease and how to manage the patients’ treatments.

Drug Discovery and Development

In this module, you will gain an understanding of how new medicines are developed and brought to patients. In particular, you will explore the process for identification and validation of new therapeutic opportunities, sources of new medicines, the role of preclinical in vitro and in vivo pharmacological assessment, and determination of safety of new medicines. You will also learn about the stages of clinical trials and the key principles in clinical trial design.

Applied Molecular Medicine

This module provides an understanding of the most important current topics in molecular medicine, including the biology of cancer, gene modification, stem cells and regenerative medicine.

What our students say

2nd London university for student satisfaction - National Student Survey 26*

I picked UWL because the facilities looked amazing and I loved the focus on helping students secure the right career once they graduate.

Damian Pop

Entry requirements

Requirements:

International

112 UCAS points required

from level 3 qualifications

These can include:

A Levels at grade B, B and C, or above

BTEC Extended Diploma with Distinction, Merit, Merit

Access to HE Diploma

International Baccalaureate

T Levels

Your Level 3 qualifications must include one science subject.

You also need GCSE English, Maths, and two sciences or double science (grade 9 - 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalent.

Looking for BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation Year?

View Foundation Year course

Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

Mature applicants (aged 21+): If you do not hold the qualifications listed but have relevant work experience, you are welcome to apply. Your application will be considered on an individual basis.

6.0 IELTS or above

You need to meet our English language requirement – a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for each of the four individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept.

You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents.

We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements.

Find out more about our English Language courses.

Fees & funding

Funding:

per year†

Please note:

Fees for the 2027/28 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.

Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs over 2 academic years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year, except if otherwise stated.

If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

Funding your studies

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependents and disabled students.

We offer generous bursaries and scholarships to make sure your aspirations are your only limit.

View full details, including conditions and eligibility.

International students - funding your studies

We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships.

Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.

Financial support for international students

Pharmacology facilities

Explore the specialist facilities in our School of Medicine and Biosciences.

Play the video

Fully-equipped laboratories

Our labs are equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including cell culture equipment, microscopes, and genetic analysis tools, enabling you to conduct advanced experiments and analyse complex data.

UWL Libraries will help you to succeed as you progress through your studies. Find out more information about our libraries.

Previous slide Next slide

Your future career

As well as providing a gateway into medicine or pharmacy, upon successful completion of a pharmacology degree, you will be equipped to excel in a wide range of fields including pharmaceutical science, medical research and veterinary pharmacology.

You may also choose to study our MSc or PhD courses after graduating.

Taught by a community of diverse, expert researchers

Career-focused modules

Hands-on laboratory experience

One-to-one, life-long careers support

Strong links with medical and pharmaceutical providers, research labs and biotech industries

On campus, specialist careers fairs

Internship and placement opportunities

Professional accreditation

Job roles

pharmaceutical science

pharmaceutical research - drug discovery and development, clinical trials etc.

healthcare - NHS, private pharmaceutical companies, etc.

medical research

academia - researcher, teacher, lecturer etc.

biomedical research

finance and business - as a manager, analyst etc.

medical sales and marketing

dentistry

science - biomedical scientist, clinical scientist, laboratory technician etc.

veterinary pharmacology.

Professor Kamyar Afarinkia Course Leader

I have extensive teaching experience across Organic and Medicinal Chemistry, Pharmacology and Biomedical Sciences, having taught various modules covering topics as diverse as asymmetric synthesis to cancer biology. I have also led and taught on postgraduate taught (MSc and MRes) courses in Cancer Drug Discovery, Cancer Pharmacology and Drug Toxicology.

View more

View full profile

Dr Alicia Elhigazi

Dr John Hughes

Professor Bernadine Idowu

Dr Nina Ledermann

Show more

How to apply:

Play the "How to apply for university | The University of West London" video

Head to the UCAS website where you can apply using:

our institution code - W05

the UCAS course code (below)

Want to ask us a question first? We would love to hear from you.

Call us free on 0800 036 8888

Email us at courses@uwl.ac.uk

We're here to help

Any questions about a course or studying at UWL?

We're here to help - call us on

(Monday - Friday, 10am - 4pm GMT)

Or email us anytime:

courses@uwl.ac.uk

Apply for this course:

Institution code W05 Institution code

UCAS code currentVariantData.field_p_cv_ucas_code UCAS code

Apply on UCAS.com

You will need our institution code and the UCAS code (above)

You can apply online at any time by clicking on the 'Apply now' button.

Our application form will ask you for some information about what you want to study, your previous qualifications or experience, and how we can contact you.

Apply now

You can apply to us in two ways:

on the UCAS website you will need our institution code (W05) and the UCAS course code (see top of page)

directly on our website – follow the ‘Apply now’ link

Want to ask us a question first? Our dedicated international students’ team would love to hear from you.

Ask the International Recruitment Team a question

Learn more about international student applications

Find out more about why you should study in London at the Career University

The University of West London does not offer Student visa sponsorship for part-time courses.

Our application form will ask you for some information about:

what you want to study

your previous qualifications or experience

your visa (if required)

how we can contact you.

Email international@uwl.ac.uk

International student applications

Biomedical sciences

At the University of West London, we offer a comprehensive range of courses that are designed to equip our students with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to succeed in the biomedical sciences industry.

Biomedical sciences courses

BSc (Hons) Bioinformatics Genomics

BSc (Hons) Human Biology

BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science

BSc (Hons) Human Genetics

BSc (Hons) Biochemistry

BSc (Hons) Biosciences

Search for courses

Student life at UWL

Play the "Why choose the University of West London" video

Find out more

Discover seven reasons to study with us and how studying at UWL will support your future career.

Find out about student accommodation and the support for students.

Explore our campus and sites and book onto a campus tour or open day.

Chat to our students

Important notes for applicants

Disclaimer

†Fees - the published fee is an annual fee, payable each year, for the duration of the course. Fees are subject to change. Home tuition fees may be subject to annual increases but will not increase by more than the fee caps as prescribed by the Office for Students or such other replacing body. Full-time taught international fees are subject to an annual increase.

Teaching - your course will primarily be delivered in-person, however it may include delivery of some activities online, either in real-time or recorded.

Testimonials - quotes are provided by current or former UWL students. These are mostly from the course but quotes from a UWL student on another course may be used if, for example, the course is new.

Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.

Videos - all videos on our course pages were accurate at the time of filming, however staff and course content may have since changed.

Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route and a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.

Rankings

*The National Student Survey 2026 result is based on the average of all answers by the taught student populations.

**Modern universities - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and after, 1992.

***PRES - rank out of 53 institutions.

Calling from outside the UK

Facebook

Instagram

LinkedIn

Accessibility

Privacy policy

Modern slavery statement

© 2026 University of West London - St Mary's Road, Ealing, London, W5 5RF

Chat with our students

Chat now

院校未公布 DSE 對應等級，請向院校確認。

請查看下方完整入學要求原文，或向院校確認。