Drug Discovery and Development

This MSc in Drug Discovery and Development at University College London offers an in-depth exploration of the entire process of bringing new therapeutic agents from initial concept through to clinical application. Designed for students with backgrounds in life sciences, chemistry, or pharmacology, this programme provides a comprehensive understanding of the scientific, technological, and regulatory aspects involved in modern drug development. Over the course of the programme, students will acquire core knowledge in areas such as medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics, enabling them to understand how potential drugs are identified, optimized, and tested. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills as well, with training in laboratory techniques, data analysis, and modern drug discovery technologies including high-throughput screening and bioinformatics. Students will also gain insight into the regulatory environment governing drug approval processes and the ethical considerations associated with clinical research. The programme includes opportunities for research projects and collaborations with industry partners, facilitating practical experience that enhances employability in the pharmaceutical and biotech sectors. Graduates of this MSc will be well-prepared for careers in drug development, research, regulatory affairs, and related fields, contributing to the advancement of medicine and healthcare. The programme is delivered by leading experts in the field, utilizing state-of-the-art facilities and a dynamic learning environment that fosters innovation and critical thinking. Whether students aim to pursue further research or directly enter the pharmaceutical industry, this programme provides the essential knowledge and skills needed to succeed in this rapidly evolving field.

Core modules

• Modern Aspects of Drug Discovery
• The Process of Drug Discovery and Development I
• The Process of Drug Discovery and Development II

Optional modules

Students choose two from the following:

• Anticancer Personalised Medicines
• New Drug Targets in the CNS
• Pharmacogenics, Adverse Drug Reactions and Biomarkers
• Advanced Structure-based Drug Design

Dissertation/report

All students undertake a laboratory-based research project which is assessed at the end of the year by a written report and oral presentation.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and seminars supported by the Blackboard e-learning system and practical classes. Assessment is through a combination of written examination and coursework. The research project is assessed by written report and oral presentation.

• 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 100 overall with 24/30 in reading and writing and 20/30 in speaking and listening
• British Council International Language Testing System (IELTS Academic Version). Overall grade of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each of the subtests.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The MSc in Drug Discovery and Development at University College London offers various financing options to support students throughout their studies. Scholarship opportunities are available for international and domestic students, including merit-based scholarships, research studentships, and industry-sponsored awards. Students can apply for funding through UCL Scholarships and Funding page, which provides detailed information on eligibility criteria and application procedures. Additionally, many students secure external funding from governmental agencies, research councils, and charitable foundations that support postgraduate scientific education and research.

UCL also provides guidance and resources to help students identify external bursaries, fellowships, and grant opportunities relevant to their field of study. Some students may qualify for loans or financial assistance programs offered by their home country or international agencies, which can significantly offset tuition fees and living expenses. The cost of tuition varies depending on the student's residency status, but generally, international students pay higher fees than local students.

Living expenses in London should also be considered when planning finances, which can include accommodation, transportation, food, study materials, and health insurance. UCL's student support services offer financial advice, budgeting workshops, and emergency funding options to help students manage their finances effectively during their course. It is highly recommended that prospective students explore all possible funding avenues early in their application process to ensure adequate preparation for the financial demands of postgraduate study at UCL. Furthermore, part-time work opportunities are available for eligible students to gain experience and supplement their income. Overall, the university’s diverse funding options aim to make advanced education accessible and manageable for students enrolled in the MSc in Drug Discovery and Development.

The MSc in Drug Discovery and Development at University College London (UCL) offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to the evolving field of pharmaceutical research. This programme is designed to equip students with a profound understanding of the entire drug development process, from initial target discovery through to clinical trials and regulatory approval. It combines principles from medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, molecular biology, and drug design, providing students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for careers in the pharmaceutical and biotech industries.

Students enrolled in this programme benefit from UCL’s strong links with industry leaders and research institutions, enabling access to cutting-edge facilities, expert lectures, and real-world projects. The curriculum is carefully structured to cover key areas such as drug target validation, high-throughput screening, structure-based drug design, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and regulatory affairs. Emphasis is placed on the translation of basic scientific research into viable drug candidates, fostering innovation and critical thinking.

Practical lab sessions, workshops, and internships are integral parts of the programme, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in drug synthesis, compound testing, and data analysis. The programme also features modules on the societal and ethical implications of drug development, ensuring graduates are well-prepared for the complex environment of modern pharmaceutical research.

Graduates of the MSc in Drug Discovery and Development are equipped to pursue careers in pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, research institutes, and regulatory agencies. They can contribute to the discovery of new medicines, optimize existing drugs, or engage in translational research aimed at improving patient outcomes. The programme’s multidisciplinary approach, combined with UCL’s reputation as a leading research university, makes it an excellent choice for aspiring scientists and healthcare professionals seeking to make impactful contributions to medicine and public health.