Swansea University

What you'll study

The MPharm (Hons) curriculum blends pharmaceutical science and clinical practice across integrated years, progressing from core science to patient-centred pharmacy. Early stages emphasise foundational subjects such as anatomy and physiology, biochemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry (medicinal chemistry), pharmaceutics and pharmacology. As you progress you study therapeutics, clinical pharmacy practice, pharmacokinetics, drug design and formulation, microbiology and infection, and public health.

• Practical and laboratory work: formulation labs, analytical techniques, compounding and quality control.
• Clinical and communication skills: patient consultation, clinical decision making, medicines optimisation and interprofessional working.
• Placements and experiential learning: structured workplace learning in community and hospital settings to develop real-world pharmacy practice.
• Research and project work: a substantial research project or dissertation in a pharmacy-related area, reflecting Swansea’s research strengths in drug discovery and pharmaceutics.
• Professional topics: pharmacy law and ethics, leadership, service improvement and medicines safety.

The programme typically incorporates simulated patient interactions, objective structured clinical examinations (OSCEs) and skills sessions, preparing students for the professional requirements of pharmacy practice. Modules are designed to meet the professional competencies required for progression to pre-registration/Foundation training and eventual registration with the relevant pharmacy regulator.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have strong science qualifications. Typical entry profiles include A-levels (or equivalent) with Chemistry plus at least one other science or mathematics subject. Applicants without A-levels may be considered with suitable alternative qualifications such as BTECs, Access to Higher Education diplomas with science content, or relevant prior learning.

• Essential subjects: Chemistry is usually required; Biology, Human Biology, Mathematics or Physics are commonly preferred as additional subjects.
• GCSEs: Good passes in English and Mathematics (or equivalent) are normally expected.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualifications and an approved English language qualification are required.
• Mature and graduate applicants: healthcare experience, relevant degree-level study or completion of a recognised conversion/Foundation programme may be considered; shortlisted applicants may be interviewed.

Selection typically considers academic record, personal statement, references and, where used, an interview or admissions test to assess motivation, communication and suitability for a career in pharmacy.

Career prospects

Graduates of the MPharm go on to a wide range of pharmacy careers. The degree prepares you for the next stage of professional training (pre-registration/Foundation year) required for pharmacist registration and offers a strong foundation for roles across healthcare and industry.

• Community pharmacy and primary care roles, including medicines optimisation and public health services.
• Hospital pharmacy, clinical pharmacy and specialist pharmacist posts in secondary care.
• Pharmaceutical industry positions in formulation, drug development, quality assurance, regulatory affairs and clinical trials.
• Regulatory agencies, policy roles, medicines safety and pharmacovigilance.
• Research and academia, including postgraduate study (MPhil/PhD) and research assistant posts in drug discovery and clinical pharmacy.
• Commercial and managerial careers in healthcare services, consultancy and health technology assessment.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University offers an integrated pharmacy programme delivered by staff active in research and teaching across pharmaceutical sciences and clinical practice. The School works closely with local health boards and community pharmacy providers, providing structured placement opportunities across primary and secondary care settings in Wales.

• Applied learning: hands-on laboratory facilities, simulation suites and clinical skills teaching prepare students for real practice.
• Research-informed teaching: opportunities to undertake research projects in areas such as pharmaceutics, medicinal chemistry and clinical pharmacy.
• Support and employability: emphasis on professional skills, career development and links with employers to support transition into pre-registration training and subsequent careers.
• Campus and community: a supportive student environment with access to university services, societies and interprofessional learning with other health disciplines.

Overall, the MPharm at Swansea University aims to produce clinically competent, research-aware and professionally responsible pharmacists equipped to work across the evolving health and medicines landscape.