Pharmacy and pharmacology are critical fields of study focusing on the creation, composition, and dispensation of drugs. The UK is home to several prestigious universities offering top-notch education in these areas, with excellent opportunities for research, work placements, and modern facilities. If you’re considering pursuing a degree in pharmacy or pharmacology, here are the top 10 UK universities to consider, based on the Guardian University Guide 2024.
1. University of Lincoln
The University of Lincoln offers a BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science programme, focusing on pharmacology, physiology, and cell biology. Graduates often find work across both the public and private sectors.
- Course to consider: BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical Science
- Entry requirements: A Level: BBC (including a minimum grade C in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics)
- International fee: £17,200
2. Ulster University
Ulster University’s School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences has been ranked number one in the UK for pharmacy and pharmacology multiple times. The Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) offers practical placements throughout the course, preparing students for diverse career paths.
- Course to consider: Pharmacy MPharm (Hons)
- Entry requirements: IB 28 points (including 6 points in higher-level chemistry and 7 points in another science subject)
- International fee: £19,130
3. University of Portsmouth
Known for its multi-disciplinary approach, the University of Portsmouth offers a BSc in Pharmacology, informed by internationally recognized research, which prepares students for modern pharmacy challenges.
- Course to consider: Pharmacology BSc (Hons)
- Entry requirements: A levels – BBB-BBC, IB – 29 points
- International fee: £18,900
4. University of Leeds
The University of Leeds offers a unique Pharmacology MBiol programme, which addresses global issues like antibiotic resistance and neurodegenerative diseases. The curriculum includes advanced research training and industry-relevant skills.
- Course to consider: Pharmacology MBiol
- Entry requirements: IB 6,6,6 (including Biology or Chemistry and another science-related subject)
- International fee: £27,500
5. University of Glasgow
The Clinical Pharmacology MSc (MedSci) at the University of Glasgow is a leading postgraduate programme, focusing on clinical pharmacology, genomics, and personalized patient care. It is highly regarded for research and clinical applications.
- Course to consider: Clinical Pharmacology MSc
- Entry requirements: 2:1 Honours degree or equivalent in pharmacy, biosciences, or medicine
- International fee: £31,860
6. St George’s, University of London
St George’s offers a Clinical Pharmacology BSc that covers applied pharmacology, from disease discovery to drug development. It is a comprehensive programme preparing students for careers in clinical and pharmaceutical settings.
- Course to consider: Clinical Pharmacology BSc
- Entry requirements: A levels – BBB, GCSEs – 6 subjects graded 6 (B) or above
- International fee: £63,750
7. University of Sunderland
The University of Sunderland offers a four-year Pharmacy MPharm degree, which includes placements and practical experience to ensure students are well-prepared for professional pharmacist registration.
- Course to consider: Pharmacy MPharm
- Entry requirements: A Levels must include Chemistry and one other science subject at Grade B or above
- International fee: £16,000
8. University of Aberdeen
The University of Aberdeen offers an MSci Pharmacology programme with a focus on drug properties, toxicology, and neuropharmacology. It includes a one-year industrial placement, giving students valuable industry experience.
- Course to consider: Pharmacology with Industrial Placement, MSci
- Entry requirements: A-levels – ABB (including two science or mathematics subjects)
- International fee: £24,800
9. University College London (UCL)
UCL’s Pharmacy MPharm programme is accredited and prepares students to become qualified pharmacists in the UK. The course includes placements, research projects, and patient interactions.
- Course to consider: Pharmacy MPharm
- Entry requirements: A levels – AAB (including Chemistry and Biology or Physics)
- International fee: £31,100
10. Queen’s University Belfast
Queen’s University Belfast offers an MPharm Pharmacy programme, focusing on the chemical and biological sciences of drug development. It also includes placements and a research project to enhance clinical and research skills.
- Course to consider: MPharm Pharmacy
- Entry requirements: AAB (including Chemistry and one other science subject)
- International fee: £25,300
