Keele University

What you'll study

The programme provides a balance of molecular, cellular and systems-level pharmacology alongside practical laboratory and research skills. Core themes include drug discovery and development, receptor pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism, toxicology, and modern therapeutic approaches such as targeted therapies and neuropharmacology.

• Taught modules: Typical modules cover molecular and cellular pharmacology, experimental pharmacology techniques, principles of drug discovery, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, clinical pharmacology and safety assessment.
• Research methods and transferable skills: Experimental design, statistics for biomedical research, critical appraisal of the literature, scientific communication and ethics in human/animal research.
• Research project/dissertation: A substantial individual project—laboratory-based, computational or literature-focused—supervised by academic staff. Projects allow you to develop practical techniques, data analysis and scientific writing to near-independent researcher level.
• Teaching format: The course is delivered through lectures, seminars, small-group tutorials, laboratory practicals and one-to-one supervision for the research project. There are options for full-time or part-time study where available.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK upper second-class honours degree (2:1) or international equivalent in a relevant subject such as pharmacology, biomedical science, biochemistry, physiology, pharmacy or chemistry. Candidates with a lower second-class degree (2:2) may be considered if they have relevant laboratory experience, publications or appropriate professional experience.

• Relevant practical laboratory experience and a demonstrated interest in pharmacology strengthen applications.
• International applicants will need to meet English language requirements; the programme typically requires a recognised English qualification at a level acceptable to the University.
• Applicants without a directly related degree but with substantial professional experience in a relevant life-science field may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Career prospects

Graduates from this MSc are prepared for a range of scientific and clinical-adjacent careers. The programme emphasises experimental competence, critical appraisal and project management—skills valued in commercial and public-sector roles.

• Pharmaceutical and biotech industry: roles in drug discovery, preclinical development, pharmacokinetics, toxicology and analytical laboratories.
• Clinical research and trials: study coordination, data management and roles in clinical research organisations (CROs).
• Regulatory affairs, pharmacovigilance and quality assurance within industry or regulatory bodies.
• Academic research and progression to PhD study in pharmacology, neuroscience, toxicology or related fields.
• Science communication, medical affairs, sales and technical support in life-science and healthcare sectors.

Why study at Keele University

Keele combines a campus-based student experience with research-active academic staff in pharmacology and related biomedical disciplines. The School has well-equipped teaching and research laboratories, and students benefit from small-group teaching and close supervision for project work. Interdisciplinary links across biosciences, pharmacy and medicine provide breadth and opportunities for collaborative projects.

• Research-informed teaching: modules are shaped by current research in drug action and therapeutic development.
• Practical training: hands-on laboratory sessions and project supervision develop the technical skills employers seek.
• Supportive learning environment: dedicated academic and technical support, plus career and employability services to help with placements and applications.
• Industry and clinical links: opportunities for projects and collaborations with local and national organisations in the life-sciences sector.