MPharm Pharmacy
Course options
Key Details
- Award
- Degree of Master of Pharmacy
- UCAS Course Code
- B230
- Typical Offer
- AAB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Contextual Offer
- BBB (specific subject requirements apply)
- Course Length
- 4 years
- Course Start Date
- September 2024
Why you should choose us
Course Overview
Our GPhC accredited Pharmacy degree helps you develop the knowledge, skills and attributes required of a modern pharmacist. From day one you will work with patients and other healthcare practitioners in placements and simulations. Learning in an enjoyable and supportive environment to maximise your potential. We are proud of our graduates, and their early career destinations are a testament to the employability prospects provided by our degree.
Our MPharm degree programme has a global reputation for exceptional, innovative teaching, backed by world-class research. You’ll focus on clinical skills development and practical experience to develop your professional attributes and competencies. You will benefit from the support of our friendly staff, who are leading researchers and practitioners. Furthermore, your learning will be integrated with placements from the very beginning of this four-year course.
Whatever your focus, your course will reflect the most up-to-date developments in pharmaceutical science and the most recent advances in clinical practice.
This course is intended for UK and EU students who wish to later register as a Pharmacist in the UK following a 12-month period of foundation training undertaken after graduation. If you wish to register as a pharmacist overseas we recommend you check this course is acceptable for this purpose in that country.
Placement Year and Study Abroad
In your final year, you’ll carry out a project, giving you the chance to gain a greater insight into a specialist subject area. You can choose to undertake it at an English-speaking provider. We currently have arrangements with pharmacy schools in Germany, France, Spain, and Vietnam.
Accreditations
The course is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC).
Study and Modules
Structure
Our course covers topics in an integrated way, centred on different diseases and clinical topics. Throughout your degree, you’ll develop your skills through patient-facing experiences and placements. Some parts of your learning will be alongside other healthcare professionals, just like it would be in the workplace.
In your first year, you’ll be introduced to the different areas of pharmacy: the biology behind how drugs work (pharmacology), dosage form design (pharmaceutics), how medicines are designed and made (medicinal chemistry), and patient care and the practice of pharmacy. Building from this, the degree is taught around different clinical topics, starting first with hypertension, which is one of the most commonly treated clinical symptoms.
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
Our course combines a variety of teaching methods, designed to help you make the most of your learning and your ability to perform the professional role of a Pharmacist.
We promote active learning, with a large proportion of workshops, practicals and simulations designed to help you get to grips with applying your knowledge to deliver benefits to patients and the public.
You’ll work in small groups to solve problems, and in teams to help you recognise your own strengths and weaknesses, and to support your development to becoming a healthcare professional.
We give you plenty of practice of the things you will need to do as a working Pharmacist: from the production of a professional portfolio to counselling a patient and preparing a pharmaceutical care plan, everything is taught in context.
Independent study
The course is designed to give you space to reflect on your experiences to help you to maximise your potential. You’ll have opportunities to research, test and apply your knowledge in your own time, supported through tasks and activities delivered via our virtual learning environment.
Assessment
We employ a range of innovative assessment methods based on the procedures you will use as a qualified Pharmacist, including portfolio-based assessments and observations of clinical practice.
We carefully select our assessment methods in order to:
-
Optimise your learning and development
-
Develop professionalism
-
Develop clinical decision-making skills
-
Prepare you for professional and scientific practice
Support for assessment is central to our ethos. This is achieved through provision of:
-
Mock assessments and feedback for exams
-
Feedback on first drafts of course assignments
-
Drop-in sessions to provide time to support students throughout the degree
Here are some examples of ways we assess you:
-
Short answer and multiple-choice tests
-
Essays and laboratory reports
-
Pharmaceutical care plans
-
Clinical observations
-
Professional development portfolios
-
Oral and poster presentations
-
Scientific paper writing
Staff and peer assessment
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 further develop your research and clinical skills where you will learn about skin disorders, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular disease, psychiatric disorders, neurological diseases, and management of pain. In addition to the clinical topics, you develop your scientific understanding of how a medicine is designed, tested and formulated. Using this knowledge to benefit your patients and fellow healthcare professionals.
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
Our course combines a variety of teaching methods, designed to help you make the most of your learning and your ability to perform the professional role of a Pharmacist.
We promote active learning, with a large proportion of workshops, practicals and simulations designed to help you get to grips with applying your knowledge to deliver benefits to patients and the public.
You’ll work in small groups to solve problems, and in teams to help you recognise your own strengths and weaknesses, and to support your development to becoming a healthcare professional.
We give you plenty of practice of the things you will need to do as a working Pharmacist: from the production of a professional portfolio to counselling a patient and preparing a pharmaceutical care plan, everything is taught in context.
Independent study
The course is designed to give you space to reflect on your experiences to help you to maximise your potential. You’ll have opportunities to research, test and apply your knowledge in your own time, supported through tasks and activities delivered via our virtual learning environment.
Assessment
We employ a range of innovative assessment methods based on the procedures you will use as a qualified Pharmacist, including portfolio-based assessments and observations of clinical practice.
We carefully select our assessment methods in order to:
-
Optimise your learning and development
-
Develop professionalism
-
Develop clinical decision-making skills
-
Prepare you for professional and scientific practice
Support for assessment is central to our ethos. This is achieved through provision of:
-
Mock assessments and feedback for exams
-
Feedback on first drafts of course assignments
-
Drop-in sessions to provide time to support students throughout the degree
Here are some examples of ways we assess you:
-
Short answer and multiple-choice tests
-
Essays and laboratory reports
-
Pharmaceutical care plans
-
Clinical observations
-
Professional development portfolios
-
Oral and poster presentations
-
Scientific paper writing
-
Staff and peer assessment
Structure
In your final year, you’ll bring together everything you have learned and apply it to complex patient situations reflecting real world practice. In this year, you will also develop your research and evaluation skills to make judgements and recommendations about future practice, together with developing your understanding of education to enable you to fully support the wider healthcare team. There may be an opportunity this year to study abroad at one of our partner organisations.
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
Our course combines a variety of teaching methods, designed to help you make the most of your learning and your ability to perform the professional role of a Pharmacist.
We promote active learning, with a large proportion of workshops, practicals and simulations designed to help you get to grips with applying your knowledge to deliver benefits to patients and the public.
You’ll work in small groups to solve problems, and in teams to help you recognise your own strengths and weaknesses, and to support your development to becoming a healthcare professional.
We give you plenty of practice of the things you will need to do as a working Pharmacist: from the production of a professional portfolio to counselling a patient and preparing a pharmaceutical care plan, everything is taught in context.
Independent study
The course is designed to give you space to reflect on your experiences to help you to maximise your potential. You’ll have opportunities to research, test and apply your knowledge in your own time, supported through tasks and activities delivered via our virtual learning environment.
Assessment
We employ a range of innovative assessment methods based on the procedures you will use as a qualified Pharmacist, including portfolio-based assessments and observations of clinical practice.
We carefully select our assessment methods in order to:
-
Optimise your learning and development
-
Develop professionalism
-
Develop clinical decision-making skills
-
Prepare you for professional and scientific practice
Support for assessment is central to our ethos. This is achieved through provision of:
-
Mock assessments and feedback for exams
-
Feedback on first drafts of course assignments
-
Drop-in sessions to provide time to support students throughout the degree
Here are some examples of ways we assess you:
-
Short answer and multiple-choice tests
-
Essays and laboratory reports
-
Pharmaceutical care plans
-
Clinical observations
-
Professional development portfolios
-
Oral and poster presentations
-
Scientific paper writing
-
Staff and peer assessment
Entry Requirements
- A Levels
- AAB including Chemistry and either Physics, Biology or Mathematics. 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
- Extended Diploma: DDD 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 – BBB including Chemistry and either Physics, Biology or Mathematics
BTEC L3 Extended Diploma – DDM in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science/Biomedical Science) with specific modules OR DDM 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
- AAAAA including Chemistry and either Physics, Biology or Mathematics.
- Scottish Advanced Highers
- BBC including Chemistry and and either Physics, Biology or Mathematics. A combination of Advanced Highers and Highers may be acceptable.
- Irish Leaving Certificate
- 4 subjects at H2, 2 subjects at H3 including Chemistry and and either Physics, Biology or Mathematics.
- Access to HE Diploma
- Not accepted.
- International Baccalaureate
- 33 with HL 5 in Chemistry and HL5 in a second Science from Biology, Physics or Mathematics.
- GCSE
You are required to have English Language at a minimum of Grade C or Grade 4 or above, and Mathematics at a minimum of Grade B or Grade 5 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):
- IELTS: 7.0 overall (minimum 6.0 in all components) for year 1 entry
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:
- Interviews
Interviews will be held virtually with a member of academic staff from the School of Pharmacy. Please note that we do not disclose interview questions. Typically, we will look for you to demonstrate a good understanding of the course, your approaches to decision making, effective teamwork, effective communication, and a desire to help others. The selection process is designed to help us choose students with the appropriate skills and attitudes to become excellent pharmacists and pharmaceutical scientists.
Applicants can only be interviewed once per cycle. If unsuccessful at interview applicants cannot reapply until the following academic cycle.
- 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: DDD in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science/Biomedical Science) plus B at A-Level Chemistry.
Diploma: DD in Applied Science, or Applied Science (Medical Science/Biomedical Science) plus B at A-Level Chemistry.
Extended Certificate: D plus AB to include A-Level Chemistry and either Physics, Biology or Mathematics.
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. Where applicable Science A Levels awarded by an English Exam board require a pass in the practical element.
Contextual Admissions
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.
If you do not meet the academic requirements for direct entry, you may be interested in one of our Foundation Year programmes such as MPharm Pharmacy with a Foundation Year .
Applicants submitting UCAS applications that meet or are predicted to meet our requirements will be invited to an interview. We will be in touch prior to the interview to arrange a suitable time.
Foundation Years from Other Universities
If A Levels achieved are below the entry requirements for UEA’s MPharm Pharmacy with a Foundation Year, we cannot consider even if a Foundation Year is taken elsewhere.
We require 70% overall with 70% in Chemistry & 60% in second science or maths from foundation years with acceptable content to meet our requirements.
Preparing For Pharmacy
Applying to study Pharmacy can be daunting, especially without any experience of university or pharmacy in the family to draw upon.Preparing for Pharmacy supports Year 12 /Level 3 Year 1 students on their path to studying Pharmacy through participation in a range of free activities.
Programme Conditions
Offers to successful applicants will be subject to a successful interview, a satisfactory occupational health check, including evidence of appropriate immunisations and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). As part of the selection process, successful applicants will be asked to complete the Pharmacy Schools Council Excluded Database form. UK Pharmacy students are also required to sign up to a national Code of Conduct for Pharmacy Students.
Placements
Where a course includes patient facing placements in health or social care settings, and these are a mandatory component of the course, you will need to comply with the placement vaccination policy. Failure to meet the placement vaccination policy may prevent you from joining the course or may lead to your withdrawal from the course in the future. Future employment may also be subject to this condition.
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
After completing your MPharm degree you will need to complete a 12-month structured foundation training period and assessment, leading to registration as a Pharmacist with the GPhC.
Career prospects for Pharmacists are excellent. In many areas of the UK there is a shortage of Pharmacists, presenting exciting employment opportunities for you in community, primary care, hospital and the pharmaceutical industry when you graduate.
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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Hospital pharmacy
-
Community pharmacy
-
Primary care and GP practices
-
Pharmaceutical industry
-
Research
-
Education
Discover more on our Careers webpages.