Clinical Drug Development

The MSc in Clinical Drug Development at University College London (UCL) is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. This interdisciplinary course combines elements of pharmacology, clinical research, regulatory affairs, and project management to prepare graduates for the complex process of bringing new medicines from laboratory to patient. Students will gain a solid understanding of the scientific principles underlying drug development, including drug discovery, preclinical testing, and clinical trial design and management. The program emphasizes practical skills such as interpreting clinical data, navigating regulatory pathways, and employing good clinical practice standards. Delivered by experts with extensive industry experience, the MSc combines theoretical coursework with hands-on practical training, enabling students to understand real-world challenges and solutions in clinical development. Through modules focused on pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, biostatistics, and ethics, participants will develop a well-rounded perspective essential for roles in clinical research organizations, pharmaceutical companies, or regulatory agencies. The program also offers opportunities for collaborative projects, internships, and interaction with industry professionals, fostering networking and employment prospects. Graduates of this program will be well-positioned to pursue careers as clinical trial managers, regulatory affairs specialists, medical writers, or research scientists involved in clinical development. The MSc in Clinical Drug Development at UCL reflects the latest advances and regulatory standards in the field, ensuring that students are prepared to contribute effectively to the development of safe and effective new medicines, ultimately improving patient outcomes worldwide.

Core modules

• Drug Discovery I
• Drug Discovery II
• Statistical Methods in Research
• Ethics and Regulation of Research
• Clinical Pharmacology
• Advanced Clinical Pharmacology

Optional modules

There are no optional modules for this degree.

Research project/report

All MSc students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a report of 10,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, practicals, small-group seminars and laboratory work. Assessment is through presentations, essays, examination and the research project and dissertation.

• 5 year Specialist Diploma with an overall mark of 4.5/5.0
• Bachelor's degree with an overall mark of 4.5/5.0
• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). Score of 92 overall
• British Council International Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Version). Overall grade of 6.5

Scholarships

Comprehensive Biomedical Research Centre (CBRC) bursaries may be available for this programme.

The MSc in Clinical Drug Development at University College London is a specialized postgraduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to contribute effectively to the development of new drug therapies. This program offers a comprehensive curriculum that covers all critical aspects of clinical drug development, including preclinical research, clinical trial design and management, regulatory requirements, and pharmacovigilance. Students will learn about the entire lifecycle of drug development, from initial discovery and testing to market approval and post-marketing surveillance. The program is suitable for individuals aiming to pursue careers in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or clinical research industries, as well as for healthcare professionals involved in clinical trials or drug regulation. The program combines theoretical knowledge with practical skills, including case studies, industry placements, and collaboration with leading experts in the field. Students will have access to state-of-the-art research facilities and resources at UCL, enabling them to gain hands-on experience in various aspects of clinical development processes. The teaching team comprises experienced academics and industry professionals who bring real-world insights into the classroom. Graduates of the program will be prepared to work in highly regulated environments requiring an understanding of scientific, ethical, and regulatory considerations. Furthermore, the university offers excellent networking opportunities through seminars, conferences, and collaborations with industry partners. The MSc in Clinical Drug Development aims to foster critical thinking, ethical awareness, and innovative problem-solving skills essential for advancing the field of clinical research and drug development.