University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This master's combines taught modules, intensive laboratory training and an extended research project. Core teaching covers modern analytical methods, validation and quality systems, and the application of analytical science to drug development, manufacture and regulation.

• Advanced Instrumental Analysis — practical and theoretical training in chromatography (HPLC, UHPLC), mass spectrometry, spectroscopy and hyphenated techniques.
• Method Development and Validation — principles and practice of developing, optimising and validating assays for pharmaceutical compounds and biological molecules.
• Quantitative Bioanalysis — techniques for analysing drugs and metabolites in biological matrices, including sample preparation and bioanalytical method challenges.
• Quality Assurance and Regulatory Science — GMP/GDP principles, quality systems, regulatory requirements and data integrity in pharmaceutical analysis.
• Statistical Methods and Chemometrics — experimental design, data processing, multivariate analysis and the use of chemometric tools in method interpretation.
• Pharmaceutical Materials and Formulation Analysis — characterisation of APIs and formulations, impurity profiling and stability testing.
• Research Project — an independent laboratory-based dissertation project, often carried out in University facilities or in collaboration with industry or NHS laboratories.

Teaching methods include lectures, practical laboratory classes using industry-standard instrumentation, case studies, workshops on data handling and seminars from industry partners. Assessment is through practical reports, written examinations, coursework and the dissertation project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree in chemistry, pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, biochemistry or a closely related discipline. A second‑class honours degree is typically required, with higher classification preferred for direct entry to the taught master's. Applicants with relevant professional experience or alternative qualifications may be considered on an individual basis.

International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through an approved qualification. Applicants should also provide academic references and, where requested, a personal statement outlining their motivation and relevant laboratory experience.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and healthcare sectors where analytical expertise is essential. Typical career paths include:

• Quality control and quality assurance analyst roles in pharmaceutical manufacturing and contract analytical laboratories.
• Analytical development scientist roles focused on method development, validation and transfer.
• Bioanalytical positions supporting clinical trials and therapeutic monitoring.
• Regulatory affairs, technical support, and compliance roles that require understanding of analytical data and regulatory expectations.
• Forensic toxicology, environmental analysis and food safety laboratories where drug and contaminant analysis is performed.
• Further research or PhD study in analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical science or related areas.

Projects and industry links at Strathclyde often help students establish contacts with employers and gain experience relevant to laboratory and regulatory careers.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde's programme is delivered within a strong chemical and pharmaceutical research environment with modern analytical facilities and dedicated teaching laboratories. The university has established links with pharmaceutical companies, contract research organisations and NHS analytical services, providing opportunities for collaborative projects and guest-led workshops.

Students benefit from practical training on industry-standard instrumentation, structured project supervision and support for career development. The programme emphasises transferable laboratory skills, data integrity and an applied understanding of how analytical science supports drug development, manufacture and regulation.