Keele University

What you'll study

This integrated masters programme develops core knowledge of how drugs interact with biological systems, from molecular targets through to whole‑organism effects. Teaching covers pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, receptor biology, signal transduction, toxicology, systems pharmacology and the principles of drug discovery and development.

Study is organised progressively: early stages consolidate foundational bioscience (cell biology, physiology, biochemistry and research skills); middle stages broaden into specialised pharmacology topics and elective modules; the advanced masters years emphasise experimental design, advanced analytical techniques and a sustained independent research project at masters level.

• Typical modules — molecular pharmacology, neuropharmacology, cardiovascular pharmacology, drug metabolism and disposition, toxicology, statistical methods for biomedical research, laboratory techniques and experimental design.
• Practical work — regular laboratory classes, data analysis workshops, use of modern pharmacological assays and instrumentation, and opportunities to develop computational or in vitro skills depending on optional modules.
• Research project — an extended research dissertation supervised by an academic, providing hands‑on experience in hypothesis‑driven research, project management and presentation of findings.
• Assessment — a combination of written exams, coursework, lab reports, presentations and the masters dissertation/portfolio.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to have a strong background in science. Typical applicants will hold A‑level (or equivalent) qualifications with substantial achievement in biology and/or chemistry; mathematics and physics are advantageous. Successful candidates normally demonstrate practical laboratory experience or transferable skills through prior study, work placements or voluntary roles.

Selection considers the full application: academic transcripts, personal statement, and references. International applicants should present equivalent national qualifications and meet the programme's English language requirements. Mature applicants with relevant laboratory or industry experience are welcome and assessed on individual merit.

Career prospects

Graduates leave with the theoretical depth and practical skills required for roles in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, clinical and preclinical research laboratories, regulatory affairs, drug safety and toxicology, clinical trials and quality assurance. The integrated masters also provides a strong platform for academic progression to PhD research or university research posts.

Other common career paths include roles in healthcare‑related industries (medical devices, diagnostics), scientific publishing and communication, patent support and intellectual property, science policy, and sales or technical support within life‑science companies. Employers value the combination of laboratory competence, data analysis and project management developed on this programme.

Why study at Keele University

Keele offers a supportive campus environment with small‑group teaching and strong emphasis on laboratory supervision and research training. The university integrates teaching with active research, so students learn contemporary techniques informed by staff research interests across molecular, cellular and translational pharmacology.

Keele maintains links with regional healthcare providers and industry partners, providing opportunities for applied projects and professional networking. Facilities include dedicated bioscience teaching laboratories, computing suites for data analysis and access to research groups that work on drug discovery, toxicology and systems approaches to pharmacology.

The integrated masters structure at Keele is designed to develop independence and employability: a sustained research project, training in experimental design and statistics, and transferable skills such as scientific communication and project management help prepare graduates for a range of scientific careers or further postgraduate study.