• Undergraduate

Pharmacology BSc (Hons)

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Overview

Overview

Why study at the University of West London? 
  • Ranked 30th university in the UK - The Guardian University Guide 2025
  • Number 1 London university for overall student satisfaction - National Student Survey 2024**
  • Best university for Student Experience and Teaching Quality in the UK - The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2024

Ever taken an aspirin for a headache, or been given an anaesthetic for a filling and wondered how drugs are developed?

If you want to be involved in the areas of drug research, testing and development then a pharmacology degree could be for you. 

You will study how drugs act on the human body and vice versa. It is the science of drugs, as well as their physical and chemical properties.

This course will cover the drugs that affect major systems of the body including the central nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory and endocrine systems. Topics include pharmacological techniques, toxicology and anticancer drugs.

Through this pharmacology course, you will gain in-depth knowledge of a wide range of drug classes, safety and efficacy and drug action. It will also give you a sound understanding of the drug development process.

Accreditation

This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills. All students on Accredited programmes will receive free membership of the Royal Society of Biology.

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Select your desired study option, then pick a start date to see relevant course information:

Study options:
We support flexible study by offering some of our courses part-time or via distance learning. To give you real world experience before you graduate, we also offer some courses with a placement or internship. All available options are listed here. Your choices may affect some details of your course, such as the duration and cost per year. Please re-check the details on this page if you change your selection.
With Foundation Year
Duration: 4 years

Start date:

If your desired start date is not available, try selecting a different study option.

Why study Pharmacology with us?

Why study Pharmacology with us?

A collage of students

What our students say…

UWL has a great community feel and I love my course. It's the place to be.

Kyle Birch
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Lifelong careers support from the UWL Careers Service.
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Course detail & modules

Course detail & modules

The first year of the course will equip you with a thorough understanding of the scientific basis of pharmacology, in biochemistry, genetics and immunology.  

You will learn practical laboratory skills while gaining an overall picture of the human organism and its essential functions, including: 

  • microbiology
  • the structural features of all cells that make up the living system
  • fundamental genetic mechanisms essential for the evolution of life and function
  • the genetics and molecular biology underpinning human biology and health.

The modules in the second year build on the action of drugs on their target sites and the action of the body on drugs once administered. You will become familiar with the principles of laboratory and practical methods.

It consists of several modules including Essential Skills for Biological Sciences and Biochemical Skills. These include practical methods which build on the techniques required, as well as good laboratory practice for diagnosing diseases alongside health and safety requirements.

At this level you will gain further insight into scientific methods, writing laboratory reports, essays and assignments, data interpretation exercises and critical analysis of cases. You will also develop the ability to communicate with your peers through oral presentations.

In the final year, you will independently pursue a research project allowing you to explore a topic of interest. For example, this may be studying drugs used to prevent cancer and infectious diseases such as analgesics and antidepressants which act on the peripheral nerves and the brain respectively.

This will give you an insight into your proposed pathway for your career, be it medical research or, working in a pharmaceutical company.

Placement Year*

You can choose to add an optional placement year to develop your employability skillset and enhance professional development and career prospects.

You will undertake 45 weeks of full-time employment relevant to Biomedical Sciences.

It also aims to enhance and develop your personal and interpersonal skills, knowledge and practical abilities through an individually negotiated portfolio of activities.

*As we are in unprecedented and unpredictable times, there is no guarantee that you will be successful in securing a placement in the UK in the future.

If you choose a course with a placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route. This is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.

The placement route for this course is open to UK students only.

Compulsory modules

  • Cell and Microbiology

    The aim of this module is to provide a comprehensive understanding of cell biology and microbiology, focusing on the structure, function, and dynamics of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, as well as the study of microorganisms. 

    You will explore various topics, including cell division, the cell as the fundamental unit of life, cell specialisation, microorganism structure and physiology, identification and classification of microorganisms, control of microorganisms, causes and pathology of common diseases, lifestyle impact on human health, investigation and diagnosis of diseases, therapeutic strategies, human life cycles and aging, and the role of stem cells in regenerative medicine. 

    By the end of the module, you will have acquired knowledge and skills necessary for understanding the intricate relationship between cells, microorganisms, and human health.

  • Essential Skills for Bioscientists

    This module has been designed to support you in developing the core technical and transferable skills required to study, undertake research, and communicate effectively on topics in the Biosciences. You will arrive at University with a wide range of skills and proficiencies, so this module aims to support your transition and equip you with the essential skills you need at later stages of the course.

  • Fundamentals of Chemistry

    The aim of this module is to provide an appropriate foundation in core concepts of physical and quantitative Chemistry for you across different disciplines including biochemistry, biomedical sciences, biological sciences, and pharmacology. 

    Using workshops and practical sessions, this module will deliver an integrated understanding of matter, and the connection between the structure of atoms, molecules and compounds and their physical and chemical properties (eg, bonding and energy). 

    It also supports you in developing quantitative skills for solving chemistry calculation problems that form the basis of many analytical methods eg, spectrophotometry, chromatography etc.

  • Fundamentals of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology

    The aim of this module is to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the key principles, concepts and terminologies of biochemistry and molecular biology. It aims to explore the structure and function of biological molecules (DNA, RNA, protein, enzymes, lipids and carbohydrates) as well as the biochemistry of processes that support life and metabolism. These concepts will be taught using lectures, tutorials, and lab practicals.

  • Genetics and Disease

    This module provides knowledge and understanding of the structure of nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) and how these molecules encode the properties of cells – providing you with a basic grounding in the genetics and molecular biology underpinning human biology and health.

  • Human Anatomy and Physiology

    This module will introduce you to human anatomy. You'll gain insights into the relationship between the structure and function of the individual at the system level and as a fully integrated organism. Theory will be supported by a virtual practical activity.

Compulsory modules

  • Bioinformatics and Systems Biology

    The aim of this module is to provide you with a robust foundation in bioinformatics and computational biology. By combining the exploration of computational tools for high-throughput biological data analysis with in-depth network analysis and modelling, the module aims to foster critical thinking, practical skills, and interdisciplinary collaboration. 

    Through these learning experiences, you will be equipped to comprehend complex biological data, apply computational methods effectively, and interpret network properties, thereby preparing them to contribute meaningfully to the field of bioinformatics and systems biology.

  • Fundamentals of Pharmacology

    The aim of this module is to help you understand how drugs work in the body to prevent and treat diseases. You will learn about how drugs interact with the body, how doses affect responses, different ways drugs can be given, types of drugs, how the body processes and removes drugs, and the potential dangers. You will also explore methods for discovering new drugs and the idea of personalised medicine.

  • Research, Development and Leadership

    This module aims to equip you with comprehensive knowledge, skills, and practical experience in research, evidence-based practice, clinical audit, innovation, and collaborative teamwork in biomedical and biosciences contexts.

  • Infection and Immunity

    This module aims to provide you with an in-depth knowledge of the current concepts of basic immunology as well as continue to build on your infection knowledge from Level 4 with respect to diseases you may encounter in the clinic.

    Theoretical concepts are reinforced through laboratory practical sessions which will introduce you to diagnostic microbiological and basic immunological techniques and data analysis which are broadly used in a variety of clinical settings and scientific disciplines.

  • Neuroscience, Endocrine and Gastrointestinal Pharmacology

    You will gain an understanding of the mechanisms of the neuroscience, endocrine and gastrointestinal systems also the various disorders and the how drugs are used, also how it affects the individual systems.

  • Proteins and Enzymes

    This module provides a comprehensive introduction to modern protein science including investigating the relationship between protein structure and function, techniques for analysing protein sequences and for determining protein structure and function such as fluorescence, spectroscopy, and protein engineering. 

    The opportunities provided by genetic approaches to engineer proteins and their therapeutic and biotechnology applications will also be discussed. Enzyme mechanisms and regulation will be taught complementing learning content in the Cell Metabolism module. 

    The module introduces you to the basics of bioinformatics, increasingly used in biological research and is a skill in high demand by employers. This module builds on the key concepts in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry taught at Level 4 which elucidate the importance of macromolecules in the cell.

Compulsory modules

  • Final Year Research Project

    The 40-credit module aims to equip you to plan and produce a small-scale research project relevant to your own area of interest. You will learn to develop an appreciation of how scientific knowledge advances through research including the challenges and limitations. With the support of a supervisor, and shared discussions with other students, you will work independently to carry out a research project to completion.

  • Antimicrobial, Antineoplastic and Neuropharmacology

    This module will provide an understanding of antibacterial chemotherapy applied to human diseases which is as a consequence of some commonly known viruses.

    It will further investigate the mechanisms of actions and practical applications of chemotherapy, and the role of neuropharmacology agents.

  • Cardiovascular, Respiratory and Renal Pharmacology

    The module aims to provide an understanding of the regulation and function of the respiratory, cardiovascular and renal systems. You will learn in detail how any dysfunction of these systems may be addressed by using the appropriate drugs. You will also be taught what side effects if any can be attributed to the drugs, how these can cause disease and how to manage the patient.

  • Drug Discovery and Development

    In this module, you will have an understanding of how new drugs are developed and brought to patients. In particular, the process for identification and validation of new therapeutic opportunities, sources of new medicines, role of preclinical in vitro and in vivo pharmacological assessment, and safety. You will learn about the stages of clinical trials and the key principles in clinical trial design.

  • Applied Molecular Medicine

    You will learn about the use of molecular and computational approaches in the study and treatment of human disease. The module will demonstrate how regenerative medicine and the extracellular matrix defines specific disease processes and their treatments. The use of stem cell therapeutics will be examined. 

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

112 UCAS points required from level 3 qualifications

These can include:

  • A Levels at grade B, B and C, or above
  • BTEC Extended Diploma with Distinction, Merit, Merit
  • Access to HE Diploma
  • International Baccalaureate
  • T Levels

Your Level 3 qualifications must include one science subject.

You also need GCSE English, Maths, and two sciences or double science (grade 9 - 4 / A* - C) or Level 2 equivalent.

Looking for BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation Year?

View Foundation Year course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Looking for BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation Year?

View Foundation Year course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
6.0 IELTS or above

You need to meet our English language requirement - a minimum of IELTS 5.5 for each of the 4 individual components (Reading, Writing, Speaking and Listening). Visit our English language requirements page for information on other English language tests we accept. 

You also need academic qualifications at the same level as UK applicants. In some countries where teaching is in English, we may accept local qualifications. Check for local equivalents. 

We offer pre-sessional English language courses if you do not meet these requirements.

Find out more about our English Language courses.

Looking for BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation Year?

View Foundation Year course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

Looking for BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation Year?

View Foundation Year course
Whether you are changing career or don't have the exact subjects and grades required for this course, you might want to choose this course with a foundation year. This will give you an extra year's study to prepare you for the standard degree programme, where you can go on to graduate with a full Honours degree. Follow the link to see full details of the course with foundation year.
Fees & funding

Fees & funding

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Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

Funding your studies

You may be eligible for a student loan to cover the cost of tuition fees, or a maintenance loan. Additional funding is available to some types of students, such as those with dependants and disabled students.

We offer generous bursaries and scholarships to make sure your aspirations are your only limit. In recent years, hundreds of students have received our Full-time Undergraduate Student Bursary. 

View full details, including conditions and eligibility.

Funding your studies
{{ formatCurrencyValue(currentVariantData.field_p_cv_int_main_fee.name) }} per year*

Please note:

  • Fees for the 2026/27 academic year and onwards may be subject to Government regulation and change.
  • Tuition fees are charged for each year of your course. If your course runs for two years or more, you will need to pay the fee for each academic year at the start of that year.
  • If your course runs for less than two years, the cost above is for your full course and you will need to pay the full fee upfront.
  • If no fee is shown above then the fees for this course are not available yet. Please check again later for updates.

International students - funding your studies

We offer scholarships for international students including International Ambassador Scholarships. 

Further information about funding and financial support for international students is available from the UK Council for International Student Affairs.

 

Financial support for international students
Teaching staff

Teaching staff

Berndadine Onibokun

Professor Bernadine Idowu

Professor Idowu is the Course Leader for Biomedical Science and Bio-Sciences. 

In June 2019, she was recruited as a consultant to a develop curricula for Biomedical Science within UWL's School of Biomedical Science, founded in September 2020. She was made a Senior Lecturer and Course Leader. The course remains the popular course in the School of Medicine and Biosciences under her leadership. The 2024 National Student Survey saw the Biomedical Science course ranked 1st in London and number 4 within the UK. 

Professor Idowu has won additional awards for her teaching including an international African Achievers Award in 2023 for her contributions to making an Academic Impact. 

Her students have nominated her for the STAR awards, organised by UWL's Students' Union, for the best lecturer in the School of Biomedical Sciences for four consecutive years, which she won from 2020 – 2023. She was shortlisted for the Braveheart Award by the University Alliance Awards in September 2023.

Professor Idowu is the Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and was elected to be a member of the Royal Society of Biology.

Professor Idowu is the Course Leader for Biomedical Science and Bio-Sciences. 

In June 2019, she was recruited as a consultant to a develop curricula for Biomedical Science within UWL's School of Biomedical Science, founded in September 2020. She was made a Senior Lecturer and Course Leader. The course remains the popular course in the School of Medicine and Biosciences under her leadership. The 2024 National Student Survey saw the Biomedical Science course ranked 1st in London and number 4 within the UK. 

Professor Idowu has won additional awards for her teaching including an international African Achievers Award in 2023 for her contributions to making an Academic Impact. 

Her students have nominated her for the STAR awards, organised by UWL's Students' Union, for the best lecturer in the School of Biomedical Sciences for four consecutive years, which she won from 2020 – 2023. She was shortlisted for the Braveheart Award by the University Alliance Awards in September 2023.

Professor Idowu is the Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy and was elected to be a member of the Royal Society of Biology.

Study & career progression

Study & career progression

Pink transparent capsules

As well as providing a gateway into medicine or pharmacy, upon successful completion of a Pharmacology degree, you will be equipped to excel in a wide range of fields including:

  • pharmaceutical science
  • pharmaceutical research - drug discovery and development, clinical trials etc.
  • healthcare - NHS, private pharmaceutical companies, etc.
  • medical research
  • academia - researcher, teacher, lecturer etc.
  • biomedical research
  • finance and business - as a manager, analyst etc.
  • medical sales and marketing
  • dentistry
  • science - biomedical scientist, clinical scientist, laboratory technician etc.
  • veterinary pharmacology

You may also choose to study our MSc or PhD courses after graduating.

How to apply

How to apply

Search for courses

Important notes for applicants

Disclaimer

*Modern universities - defined as higher education institutions that were granted university status in, and subsequent to, 1992.

**The National Student Survey 2023 and 2024 - Average of answers to all questions by registered student population. Excludes specialist institutions.

Testimonials - our students or former students provided all of our testimonials - often a student from the course but sometimes another student. For example, the testimonial often comes from another UWL student when the course is new.

Optional modules - where optional modules are offered they will run subject to staff availability and viable student numbers opting to take the module.

Videos - all videos on our course pages were accurate at the time of filming. In some cases a new Course Leader has joined the University since the video was filmed.

Availability of placements - if you choose a course with placement/internship route we would like to advise you that if a placement/internship opportunity does not arise when you are expected to undertake the placement then the University will automatically transfer you to the non-internship route, this is to ensure you are still successful in being awarded a degree.