University of Strathclyde

What you'll study

This programme combines taught modules, practical laboratory work and a substantial individual research or industry-linked project. Core themes include pharmaceutical formulation and delivery, process engineering for drug manufacture, quality assurance and regulatory frameworks, and modern analytics and process monitoring.

• Pharmaceutical Process Technology 1 covering unit operations, scale-up, pilot-scale processing and introduction to continuous manufacturing approaches.
• Quality Systems and Regulatory Affairs 1 exploring Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), quality management systems, regulatory submissions and compliance across jurisdictions.
• Formulation Science and Drug Delivery 1 focusing on solid and sterile dosage forms, excipient selection, stability and performance testing.
• Process Analytical Technology (PAT) and Data Integration 1 including in-line and at-line analytics, sensors, chemometrics and use of real-time data for process control.
• Pharmaceutical Validation and Risk Management 1 covering validation strategies, qualification of equipment and facilities, and risk-based approaches such as Quality by Design (QbD).
• Research Project or Industrial Placement 1 a substantial dissertation or a project carried out with an industrial partner, incorporating experimental work, process modelling or technology implementation.

Teaching methods include lectures, workshops, laboratory practicals, case studies and guest lectures from industry. Assessment typically combines written examinations, coursework, practical reports and the final project.

Entry requirements

Applicants normally hold a good honours degree in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, chemical engineering, biomedical science or a closely related discipline. Candidates with relevant industrial experience in pharmaceutical manufacturing or with postgraduate qualifications may also be considered.

Applicants whose first language is not English will be expected to demonstrate proficiency through a recognised English language qualification at the level normally required for postgraduate study. All applications are considered individually and applicants may be invited to interview.

Career prospects

Graduates gain the skills sought by pharmaceutical companies, contract development and manufacturing organisations (CDMOs), biotechnology firms and regulatory bodies. Typical roles include:

• Process development scientist or engineer
• Formulation scientist
• Quality assurance and quality control specialist
• Validation and compliance engineer
• Regulatory affairs specialist
• Production manager or continuous manufacturing lead

The programme's emphasis on industry-relevant skills and the option to undertake an industrial project can help students build professional networks and a portfolio of practical experience valued by employers.

Why study at University of Strathclyde

Strathclyde has a long-established focus on applied engineering and pharmaceutical sciences, with close links to industry and active research in drug delivery, process intensification and manufacturing technology. The university's facilities include teaching and research laboratories equipped for formulation work, analytical chemistry and process evaluation, and staff with expertise across pharmaceutical science, chemical engineering and regulatory practice.

Students benefit from a location in Glasgow with strong connections to the UK and international pharmaceutical sector, opportunities for industry guest input and collaborations, and career support through the university's professional services and employer networks.