Pharmacology (with Foundation Year)

Highlights

This Pharmacology degree (with Foundation Year) aligns with the undergraduate curriculum guidelines for core skills and knowledge outlined by the British Pharmacological Society (BPS). Excellent facilities include well-equipped cell and molecular research laboratories, a Category 2 pathogen lab and state-of-the-art virtual reality technology for simulating drug action, and effects. The foundation year prepares you for degree-level study, developing your knowledge of medical sciences, together with essential academic, research and laboratory skills.

Taught by internationally renowned researchers developing cancer drugs and improving prescribing in the North West Cancer Research Institute and Centre for Health Economics and Medicines Evaluation. Research-led teaching draws on cutting-edge knowledge in exciting disciplines, such as pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, immunopharmacology, pharmacoeconomics and health technology assessment. With a common first year you can change to our Biomedical Science or Medical Science degree after the first year of the standard degree programme (subject to entry requirements).

Course overview

Pharmacology prepares you for a dynamic career in the pharmaceutical and biotech industry, discovering and testing new drugs or conducting clinical research. Our Pharmacology (with Foundation Year) degree provides an alternative route into undergraduate study if, for example, you don’t have the necessary qualifications or cannot meet the entry requirements to begin the standard three-year degree. The Foundation Year equips you with a basic, essential understanding of the anatomical, biological and chemical principles that underpin the field of medical sciences - before you progress to the BSc Pharmacology.

The additional year better prepares you both for higher level study and a career as a modern scientist and researcher. As well as the fundamentals of good laboratory practice, you’ll learn core academic and numeracy skills, such as drafting essays, referencing your work, statistics, data handling and interrogation. Learning within the medical sciences at Bangor is very much hands-on, grounded in the real-world experiences of lecturers, and driven by the latest scientific research.

State-of-the-art labs allow you to develop and apply your knowledge at the interface of scientific discovery and clinical practice. Our own expertise includes, among other things, the use of computer modelling and simulation of drug dosing, exposure and action, investigation into the actions and toxicities of anticancer drugs, use of pharmacogenomics, and determination of the clinical benefit and cost-effectiveness of medicines. We work closely with national and international organisations involved in pharmaceutical policy relating to pharmacogenomics, treatment of rare diseases and health service reimbursement.

We offer a rich experience to develop skills that are relevant across the spectrum of pharmacology - from the basic sciences through to clinical use and policy, and which are transferable to maximise students’ employment potential. Read more Course options

Placement year

What is the Placement Year? This exciting opportunity allows you to spend a year working with a self-sourced, professional organisation relevant to your studies. You'll typically start between June and September of your second year and finish by the following June or September.

Placements can be UK-based or even overseas. Why choose a Placement Year? Gain practical experience that complements your academic learning Make valuable industry contacts that could open doors for future careers Strengthen your employability by gaining real-world experience.

How does the Placement Year work? With dedicated support from your Academic School and our Careers and Employability Services, you will be fully equipped to find the perfect placement to complement your degree. We will guide you through the process of securing and finalising…