Pharmacology BSc

Pharmacology is the science of drugs and their effects on living organisms. It explores how medicines work, how they are developed, and how they can be used to treat disease safely and effectively. A Pharmacology degree is ideal for students interested in human health, biology and chemistry, and those who want to contribute to medical breakthroughs and healthcare innovation.

Course Structure

Most Pharmacology degrees last three years full time (BSc), or four years with a placement year, study abroad, or an integrated master’s (MSci/MPHarm). Some universities also combine pharmacology with related subjects such as physiology, biomedical science or neuroscience.

Teaching includes lectures, laboratory practicals, case studies, tutorials, and independent study. Assessment is through exams, lab reports, essays, group projects, oral presentations and a final-year dissertation.

Typical Modules

Year 1 – Foundations of Life Sciences

Human Biology and Physiology

Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

Introduction to Pharmacology

Genetics and Cell Biology

Laboratory and Research Skills

Year 2 – Core Pharmacology

Systems Pharmacology (nervous, cardiovascular and respiratory systems)

Drug Development and Discovery

Toxicology and Safety Testing

Clinical Pharmacology

Research Methods and Data Handling

Optional modules such as Immunology, Neuroscience or Endocrinology

Year 3 – Advanced Study and Applications

Molecular Pharmacology and Drug Action

Pharmacogenomics and Personalised Medicine

Experimental Pharmacology and Laboratory Research

Therapeutics and Clinical Trials

Dissertation or Independent Research Project

Optional areas may include cancer pharmacology, infectious disease pharmacology or biotechnology.

Useful A-Level or BTEC Subjects

Helpful subjects include:

• A levels: Biology (essential at most universities) and Chemistry (usually required). Maths or Physics can also be valuable.

  
  

• BTECs: Applied Science may be considered if supported by A level Chemistry.

  
  

• International Baccalaureate: Higher Level Biology and Chemistry are usually required.

  
  

What Makes a Strong Application

Universities look for students with strong scientific ability and interest in medicine and drug discovery. A strong application should include:

• Good grades in Biology and Chemistry.

  
  

• A personal statement highlighting enthusiasm for human health, drug development or medical research.

  
  

• Evidence of wider engagement, such as volunteering in healthcare, attending science events, reading about medical breakthroughs or completing online courses.

  
  

• Practical skills from lab work or independent projects.

Transferable Skills You Will Develop

A Pharmacology degree develops skills that are valuable in healthcare, research and beyond:

• Scientific expertise – understanding drug mechanisms and clinical applications.

  
  

• Laboratory skills – handling equipment, designing and analysing experiments.

  
  

• Research and data analysis – interpreting experimental results and statistics.

  
  

• Problem-solving – applying theory to real medical challenges.

  
  

• Communication – writing reports and presenting findings.

  
  

• Teamwork – collaborating in labs and group projects.

  
  

Wider Reading: Recommended Books for Aspiring Pharmacology Students

Here are four accessible and inspiring books:

“Drugs: Without the Hot Air” by David Nutt – A thought-provoking guide to drugs and their effects.

“Bad Pharma” by Ben Goldacre – A critical look at the pharmaceutical industry and clinical trials.

“How We Do Harm” by Otis Brawley – A candid exploration of medicine and treatment challenges.

“The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks” by Rebecca Skloot – The human story behind medical research.

Typical Pay After Graduation

Pharmacology graduates are in demand in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, and research. Starting salaries are typically £23,000–£28,000 in roles such as laboratory assistant, clinical trials coordinator or research technician. With experience, careers in drug development, clinical research, or regulatory affairs can earn £35,000–£50,000. Senior roles in industry, government or academia may reach £60,000–£90,000+.