This MSc programme is designed to provide specialist training and practical experience to graduates who are interested in following a career in the pharmaceutical industry or in research.
You will gain the skills and knowledge required as a pharmacist - the ability to provide effective pharmaceutical formulation strategies for current and future drug therapies and medicinal products.
The course is based on compulsory modules and a research project. This project will last approximately four months and students will work under the supervision of recognised experts in their field. The project allows you to undertake a detailed investigation and develop practical expertise in a specialist pharmaceutical sciences area.
The University also has strong links with numerous pharmaceutical companies - there may be the opportunity to undertake your project in collaboration with one of these companies.
Download the course flyer PDF >
Modules
The taught modular programme will consider various aspects of pharmaceutical sciences e.g. the biology of disease states, pharmaceutical analytical analysis, pharmaceutical formulation, research methods and exploiting your research. Modules are:
The supervised research project will last for four months and be at the level expected for the first year of PhD studies. Examples of potential topics include computer-based drug design of antimicrobial compounds and chemical synthesis of compound libraries for screening and assay development.
Prospective students must possess a good UK Honours Degree (minimum lower 2nd class) in pharmacy, pharmaceutical science, pharmacology, physiology, physical science, biochemistry, biotechnology, chemistry, chemical engineering, genetics, materials science, medicine, or a related field, from a recognised university or an overseas degree recognised by Aston University, plus two references.
International students whose first language is not English must demonstrate a satisfactory command of English language. They should meet our minimum English language requirement by taking one of the following tests:
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IELTS. Minimum requirement - 6.5 overall, 6.0 in each area.
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TOEFL IBT. Minimum requirement - 100 overall, (21 in listening and writing, 22 in reading and 23 in speaking).
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Pearson Academic. Minimum requirement - 61 overall, 59 in each area.
We do not accept a Password test.
The course is assessed by a mixture of coursework, examinations, practical work and oral and written presentations. The research project module will be assessed on the basis of a submitted project report and an oral defence of a poster.
Please note that the course is not accredited by any professional body.
This course is designed to provide a postgraduate-level education and training for graduates seeking employment in the pharmaceutical industry. The course is also an excellent foundation for studies at PhD level.
The transferable skills acquired on this course include effective written and oral communication, team working, report writing, critical analysis and IT skills.
Prof. Yvonne PerrieProfessor in Pharmaceutics/Drug Delivery & Associate Dean, Learning and Teaching
Aston Pharmacy School
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