BSc Pharmacology and Drug Discovery
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Bachelor of Science
- UCAS Course Code
- B210
- Typical Offer
- ABB (specific subject requirements reply)
- Contextual Offer
- BBC (specific subject requirements apply)
- Course Length
- 3 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
How can we support an ageing population and fight the increasing number of cases of diseases such as cancer? How can we help one in four people suffering from mental health issues? These are just some of the challenges you’ll explore on our pharmacology and drug discovery degree. You’ll be able to apply your passion for chemistry and biology and put it to use for the good of human health, developing the life-changing medicines of the future.
Study in the internationally renowned School of Chemistry, Pharmacy, and Pharmacology, with world-class research in areas such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, antibiotic resistance and tissue engineering. Our research-rich environment is pivotal to the Pharmacology Drug Discovery course, which has been designed to prepare you for a career at the forefront of pharmaceutical research.
Pharmacology is the study of drugs and their effects on living organisms. You’ll examine the way drugs work to combat disease and, combined with drug discovery, you will learn how new drugs are designed, synthesised and manufactured. The Pharmacology Drug Discovery programme is the only BSc of its type in the UK and is innovative in its multidisciplinary approach.
The course brings together scientific disciplines – biology, chemistry and physical sciences – around the context of disease and medicines. Within integrated modules, you’ll learn about the major diseases and science behind the drugs used to treat them. We also include business studies to provide you with an understanding of management practice focused on the pharmaceutical industry; vital tools to working in today’s corporate world.
You’ll be taught by academic researchers including pharmacologists, cell biologists, medicinal and pharmaceutical chemists, whose own research is in pharmacology and drug discovery. The course is designed to inform and inspire your journey to becoming a researcher in the pharmaceutical sciences. For example, in practical classes you’ll gain experience of synthetic medicinal chemistry as well as techniques in current molecular pharmacology – the techniques used in the discovery of new medicines. You’ll learn about designing experiments and how to write reports in the form of scientific papers. A highlight of the course will be performing your own original research in an individual project carried out within an active research laboratory.
Study and Modules
Structure
In your first year, you’ll gain a solid base for understanding how drugs work, what they target, and how they’re developed. You’ll be introduced to medicinal chemistry, principles of pharmacology and neuropharmacology, drug delivery and pharmacokinetics. You’ll then apply your knowledge in laboratory practicals.
You’ll also take a course in business studies at the Norwich Business School, which will provide you with an understanding of the world of management and the key concepts of management practice.
On top of this, you’ll develop your professional skills – including how to write an eye-catching cover letter and C.V.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
You’ll be taught utilising a range of innovative teaching methods, so as well as lectures, tutorials and practical classes, there’ll be case studies, problem-based learning, team-based learning, presentations and research and business management projects.
In our new state-of-the-art teaching laboratories, you’ll carry out experiments based on the subjects covered in the lecture programme. The sessions will be supervised by your lecturers and postgraduate student demonstrators, who’ll ensure the safe execution of the experiments and discuss the theory behind them.
Assessment
You’ll experience a variety of assessment methods throughout the course, which we’ll prepare you for with guidance and formative assessments (where you get feedback on your work before submitting the final piece). And we’ll provide you with detailed feedback to ensure you continue to achieve your full potential.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Structure
In your third year, you’ll apply knowledge gained in years one and two to a final year project, working with a research-active faculty member. Your project will focus on pharmacology, drug design or delivery in one of many areas, including the major contemporary challenges of cancer, inflammation, age-related disorders and epigenetics.
In addition to your final research project, you’ll have the opportunity to select further modules covering a broad range of topics as well as studying more advanced pharmacology including toxicology. And you’ll complete a module in project management, in collaboration with the Norwich Business School. The module will arm you with the key management skills required for your future career, giving you the opportunity to work with a team that manages real projects for external sponsors.
Compulsory Modules
Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, the University will endeavour to consult with students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff. In some cases optional modules can have limited places available and so you may be asked to make additional module choices in the event you do not gain a place on your first choice. Where this is the case, the University will inform students.
Teaching and Learning
You’ll be taught utilising a range of innovative teaching methods, so as well as lectures, tutorials and practical classes, there’ll be case studies, problem-based learning, team-based learning, presentations and research and business management projects.
In our new state-of-the-art teaching laboratories, you’ll carry out experiments based on the subjects covered in the lecture programme. The sessions will be supervised by your lecturers and postgraduate student demonstrators, who’ll ensure the safe execution of the experiments and discuss the theory behind them.
Assessment
You’ll experience a variety of assessment methods throughout the course, which we’ll prepare you for with guidance and formative assessments (where you get feedback on your work before submitting the final piece). And we’ll provide you with detailed feedback to ensure you continue to achieve your full potential.
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- ABB including Chemistry. A-Level General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element. If you are taking an EPQ and three A-levels, we may offer you a one grade reduction on our advertised typical offer alongside an A in the EPQ.
- T Levels
- Not accepted.
- BTEC
- DDM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science/Biomedical Science). Specific modules required or A Level Chemistry grade B. Excludes Public Services, Uniformed Services and Business Administration. See below for accepted subjects and combinations.
- Contextual Offer
A Level – BBC including Chemistry
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma – DMM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science/Biomedical Science) with specific modules required OR DMM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science/Biomedical Science) plus B at A-Level Chemistry
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
- Scottish Highers
- AAABB including grade A in Chemistry
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BCC including Chemistry. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 3 subjects at H2, 3 subjects at H3 including Chemistry
- Access to HE Diploma
- Not accepted.
- International Baccalaureate
- 32 with HL5 in Chemistry.
- GCSE
You are required to have Mathematics and English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above at GCSE.
- English Foreign Language
Applications from students whose first language is not English are welcome. We require evidence of proficiency in English (including writing, speaking, listening and reading):
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IELTS: 6.5 overall (minimum 5.5 in all components)
We also accept a number of other English language tests. Review our English Language Equivalencies for a list of example qualifications that we may accept to meet this requirement.
Test dates should be within two years of the course start date.
If you do not yet meet the English language requirements for this course, INTO UEA offer a variety of English language programmes which are designed to help you develop the English skills necessary for successful undergraduate study:
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- Interviews
Most applicants will not be called for an interview and a decision will be made via UCAS Hub. However, for some applicants an interview will be requested. Where an interview is required, the Admissions Service will contact you directly to arrange a time.
- Deferred Entry
We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year. We believe that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry on your UCAS application.
- Intakes
This course is open to UK and International applicants. The annual intake is in September each year.
Additional Information or Requirements
Extended Diploma: DDM in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science/Biomedical Science) plus grade B at A-Level OR DDM plus B at A-Level Chemistry.
Diploma: DD in Applied Science or Applied Science (Medical Science/Biomedical Science) plus grade B at A-Level OR DD plus B at A-Level Chemistry.
Extended Certificate: D plus BB at A-Level Chemistry.
Applications of Inorganic Chemistry
Applications of Organic Chemistry
Practical Chemical Analysis
If you have not studied all of the listed modules, A Level Chemistry grade B will be required to meet the subject specific requirement.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as BSc Pharmacology and Drug Discovery with a Foundation Year .
UEA are committed to ensuring that Higher Education is accessible to all, regardless of their background or experiences. One of the ways we do this is through our contextual admissions schemes.
We welcome and value a wide range of alternative qualifications. If you have a qualification which is not listed here, or are taking a combination of qualifications, please contact us via Admissions Enquiries.
International Requirements
We accept many international qualifications for entry to this course. View our International Students pages for specific information about your country.
INTO University of East Anglia
If you do not meet the academic and/or English language requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO UEA offers progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:
International Foundation in Pharmacy Health and Life Science
International Foundation in Physical Sciences and Engineering
Admissions Policy
Our Admissions Policy applies to the admissions of all undergraduate applicants.
Fees and Funding
Tuition Fees
View our information for Tuition Fees.
Scholarships and Bursaries
We are committed to ensuring that costs do not act as a barrier to those aspiring to come to a world leading university and have developed a funding package to reward those with excellent qualifications and assist those from lower income backgrounds. View our range of Scholarships for eligibility, details of how to apply and closing dates.
Course Related Costs
Please see Additional Course Fees for details of other course-related costs.
How to Apply
Apply for this course through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Services (UCAS), using UCAS Hub.
UCAS Hub is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom.
Your application does not have to be completed all at once. Register or sign in to UCAS to get started.
Once you submit your completed application, UCAS will process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.
The Institution code for the University of East Anglia is E14.
View our guide to applying through UCAS for useful tips, key dates and further information:
Employability
After the Course
You’ll graduate ready to pursue a career in drug design or development, within academia, the health sector or industry.
You could also choose a broader life science career, for example with a grant-funding body, charity, learned society or in academia, regulatory affairs or publishing.
We embed employability skills throughout the course with sessions developing CVs, interview techniques, presentation skills, team-working, research and business skills.
For entrepreneurial students who, in the future, want to turn their work into a business, there are dedicated facilities on the Norwich Research Park, with state-of-the-art lab and office spaces right on our doorstep.
Careers
A degree at UEA will prepare you for a wide variety of careers. We've been ranked 1st for Job Prospects by StudentCrowd in 2022.
Examples of careers that you could enter include:
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Research scientist in industry or university
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Healthcare scientist
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Analytical chemist
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Biomedical scientist
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Medical sales representative
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Toxicologist
Discover more on our Careers webpages.