Pharmacology: The University of Manchester

Course description

Pharmacology is the study of drugs and their effects on biological systems. It applies biological techniques to understanding the actions of current drugs, and to the development of new drugs. It is aimed at people who see their future career in the pharmaceutical industry. You may be able to spend the first semester of the second year on exchange at a university in the USA.

Students gain an understanding of core biological disciplines including biochemistry, genetics and cell biology, before specialisation in the second and final years.

Popular final year units currently include Ion Channels and Enzymes as Drug Targets, Advanced Neuropharmacology, Pharmaceutical Chemistry, and Molecular Toxicology.

Career opportunities

Pharmacology graduates from the University of Manchester go into a variety of careers. About half stay in the life sciences and related disciplines, choosing either to study further research or taught courses such as a Masters or PhD (leading to a career in research science), or medicine/dentistry degrees, or work within the pharmaceuticals industry. A significant number go on to complete a science teaching qualification, such as a secondary science PGCE. Those that choose a career outside of the life sciences are highly sought after by large multinationals. Graduate programmes in accountancy, finance, law, marketing and publishing are particularly popular choices for graduates from the Faculty who do not wish to stay in science.

Entry requirements

• English language: Either GCSE grade C, IELTS 6.5 (with not less than 6.5 in any component) or an equivalent qualification.
• A level: Grades AAB-BBB. This should include:
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Maths and
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Geography, Psychology, Environmental Studies or PE.

  General Studies is welcomed, but is not normally included as part of the offer.

• AS level: 2 AS levels are acceptable in place of the third non-science A-level.
• Unit grade information: The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit grade information which, like all other available information, will inform the consideration of applications.
• GCSE: Minimum grade C in English Language and Mathematics.
• Key Skills qualification: The University warmly welcomes applications from students studying the Key Skills qualification.
• International Baccalaureate: 35-32 points overall including 5 or 6 points in two sciences at Higher level, normally Biology and Chemistry.