University of Bradford

PhD School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences

University of Bradford

Course overview

The PhD (School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences) at the University of Bradford is a research-based degree designed for graduates in pharmacy, biomedical science, or related disciplines who wish to conduct original research in health and medicines.

During the PhD, students work on a major research project under the supervision of experienced academics. Research areas may include drug formulation, cancer treatment, antimicrobial resistance, or clinical pharmacology.

Teaching is delivered through one-to-one supervision, research training sessions, workshops, and skills-based courses that develop laboratory techniques, data analysis, and scientific writing. Assessment includes annual progress reviews, presentations, and the submission of a final PhD thesis.

Most of the programme involves hands-on research in specialist laboratories using advanced equipment for drug testing, cell analysis, imaging, or data modelling. Some projects may also involve collaboration with NHS teams or industry partners. The degree concludes with a viva voce examination, preparing graduates for careers in academic research, pharmaceutical development, or clinical innovation.

Entry requirements

Applicants must submit a personal statement outlining their interest in pharmaceutical or medical research, along with academic transcripts, a CV detailing relevant experience, and a reference from an academic or employer.

Grade Requirements:

  • A 2:1 honours degree or equivalent in pharmacy, biosciences, or a related field
  • A Master’s degree or other postgraduate qualification is preferred
  • Equivalent international qualifications are accepted
  • Applicants with relevant professional work experience may also be considered

English Proficiency:

  • IELTS overall score of 6.0, with at least 5.5 in each component
  • Equivalent English language tests such as TOEFL iBT or PTE Academic are also accepted

Scholarships

  • Alumni Discount Scheme

    All alumni of the University of Bradford, regardless of when they have graduated, will receive a 10% discount on their tuition fees.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • Distance Learning MBA Scholarship

    Women will receive a scholarship equivalent to 10% of the overall tuition fee as a tuition fee discount.

    Up to 10% of fees

  • Executive MBA Scholarship

    Women will receive a scholarship equivalent to 30%; other students will receive a scholarship equivalent to 20%

  • Scholarship for Computer Science for Artificial Intelligence BSc

    International students will be granted a scholarship worth £7,500. This means that they will pay: £16,956 per year

    Up to £7,500

  • Scholarship for MSc Renewable and Sustainable Energy

    £7,500 as a tuition fee discount. This means that students will pay: £17,889

    Up to £7,500

  • The Global Scholar Award

    £5000, £4000, £2000 for eligible countries

  • The Rani Scholarship

    International students will receive a 50% discount on their tuition fees. Home students will be paid a yearly stipend of £6,930, increasing by 5% each year.

  • University of Bradford Sanctuary Scholarship

    Tuition Fee Grant, A Travel and Course Costs Grant, Personal Support.

  • UoB 10% Family Postgraduate Discount

    Recipients will receive a 10% discount on their overall tuition fees.

    Up to 10% of fees

Career opportunities

Graduates of the PhD (School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences) from the University of Bradford are well prepared for careers such as:

  • Pharmaceutical Research Scientist
  • Academic Lecturer
  • Drug Development Specialist
  • Clinical Trial Manager
  • Regulatory Affairs Expert

Cost of study

For the 2026 academic year, the annual tuition fee for the PhD (School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences) at the University of Bradford is £19,500 for international students. Additional fees may apply.

Admission

Applications for the PhD (School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences) at the University of Bradford can be submitted through the university’s online application portal. For further guidance and personalised support, please contact one of our trained counsellors.

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