Pharmacology

Pharmacology at Newcastle University offers a comprehensive and rigorous exploration of how drugs interact with biological systems to produce therapeutic and adverse effects. This degree program is designed to equip students with a detailed understanding of the mechanisms underlying drug action, drug development, and the role of pharmaceuticals in modern medicine. Throughout the course, students will engage with a diverse curriculum that covers molecular pharmacology, neuropharmacology, cardiovascular pharmacology, and the principles of drug discovery and development.

The program emphasizes practical laboratory skills, enabling students to conduct experiments, analyze data, and interpret results confidently. In addition, students will learn about the ethical considerations and regulatory frameworks relevant to pharmacological research and the pharmaceutical industry. The curriculum also integrates cutting-edge topics such as personalized medicine, pharmacogenomics, and the use of biotechnology in drug development, preparing graduates for careers in research, healthcare, or the pharmaceutical industry.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and close ties with industry and research institutions, providing opportunities for placements, research projects, and collaborative learning. Newcastle University's strong emphasis on employability ensures that graduates leave equipped with both theoretical knowledge and practical experience, making them highly competitive in the job market. The program fosters critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and a thorough understanding of the scientific principles that underpin modern pharmacology, enabling students to contribute meaningfully to advances in medicine and healthcare.

Whether aiming for a career in scientific research, clinical practice, or pharmaceutical development, students will find this program offers the foundational knowledge and skills necessary for success. The interdisciplinary approach, combining biology, chemistry, and clinical sciences, ensures an adaptable education that can lead to diverse careers within healthcare, biotechnology, academia, or industry sectors. Graduates of this program become part of a vibrant community committed to improving health outcomes through innovative pharmacological research and practice, making a tangible difference in people's lives worldwide.

Stage 1

Compulsory modules

• BGM1002 Biochemistry
• CMB1004 Cell Biology
• BGM1004 Genetics
• CMB1005 Practical Skills in Biomedical & Biomolecular Sciences 1
• CMB1003 Microbiology and Immunology
• PED1003 Pharmacology
• PSC1002 Physiology
• CMB1006 Practical Skills in Biomedical & Biomolecular Sciences 2

Stage 2

Compulsory modules

• CMB2000 Principles and Practice of Molecular Techniques
• CMB2001 Control of Eukaryotic Gene Expression
• CMB2004 Cell and Molecular Biology of the Immune System
• PSC2002 Membrane Transport and Cell Signalling in Health and Disease
• PED2001 Drug Disposition and Pharmacokinetics
• PED2005 Systems Pharmacology
• PSC2026 Cardiovascular System for Pharmacologists

Stage 3

Compulsory modules

• PED3001 Pharmacological Techniques
• PED3003 Clinical Pharmacology and Drug Development
• PED3005 Advanced Pharmacogenetics
• PED3006 Carcinogenesis and Anticancer Drugs
• PED3008 Advanced Topics in Neuropharmacology
• PED3011 Toxicology
• PED3012 Integrated Pharmacology

You will take one of the following modules. The relevant module will be determined by the School.

• CMB3000 Project
• CMB3001 Experimental Design and the Process of Research
• CMB3002 Research Project for Exchange Students

Optional modules

You take one of the following optional modules:

• PED3013 Research in Pharmacological Sciences
• BMS3003 Business for the Bioscientist
• BMS3015 Healthcare Organisation and Practice
• BMS3016 Science Communication
• BMS3022 Bioethics

Requirements

• Applicants whose first language is not English require a minimum score of IELTS 6.5
• GPA 4.0 or 80% average with specific grades or percentage in relevant subjects in at least one year of a Bakalavr at arecognised Russian University as comparable to ABB at A level
• GPA 4.0/5.0 or 80% average in at least one year of a Specialist Diploma in a recognised Russian university as comparable to ABB at A level
• A reference from a teacher, adviser or professional who knows you academically.
• A personal statement – this is where you can stand out from other applicants, so you should start thinking about this early.

Scholarships

• International Family Discount (IFD)
• International Undergraduate Merit Scholarship (IUMS)

The BSc Pharmacology programme at Newcastle University offers students a comprehensive education in the science of drugs and their effects on biological systems. This undergraduate degree is designed to provide a strong foundation in the principles of pharmacology, including how drugs interact with receptors, signal transduction pathways, and physiological processes. Throughout the course, students gain insight into the development, mechanisms, and therapeutic applications of medicines, as well as their implications for healthcare and society.

The programme typically spans three years for full-time study, with opportunities for students to engage in laboratory work, research projects, and seminars that enhance practical skills and critical thinking. The curriculum encompasses core modules such as cell biology, biochemistry, physiology, and molecular biology, alongside specialized pharmacology units. Students are encouraged to develop analytical skills and an understanding of experimental techniques used in modern pharmacological research.

In addition to technical knowledge, the programme emphasizes the ethical, legal, and social issues associated with drug development and usage. Students have access to state-of-the-art laboratories and can participate in collaborative projects with academic and industry partners, preparing them for careers in pharmaceuticals, academia, healthcare, or further postgraduate study. Newcastle University also offers opportunities for industrial placements and study abroad, enriching the student experience and employability.

Assessment methods include written examinations, coursework, presentations, and practical evaluations. The programme aims to equip graduates with the skills necessary for a successful career in pharmacological sciences, as well as providing a solid platform for postgraduate research and professional development in healthcare and biomedical fields. The university’s strong emphasis on research-led teaching ensures students are introduced to cutting-edge developments and innovative approaches within pharmacology, making this degree a compelling choice for those interested in the science of medicines and their impact on health systems globally.