Experimental Pharmacology and Therapeutics

The MSc in Experimental Pharmacology and Therapeutics at University College London offers a comprehensive and advanced education focused on the development and evaluation of new drugs and therapies. This program is designed for students who are interested in the scientific and clinical aspects of pharmacology, with an emphasis on experimental techniques, data analysis, and translational research. Throughout the course, students gain in-depth knowledge of drug action mechanisms, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the application of pharmacological principles to the treatment of various diseases.

The curriculum integrates core scientific principles with practical laboratory skills, enabling students to design, conduct, and interpret experiments in pharmacology and therapeutics. In addition to fundamental coursework, students explore topics such as molecular pharmacology, neuropharmacology, cardiovascular pharmacology, and the role of pharmacogenomics in personalized medicine. The program also emphasizes understanding the regulatory aspects of drug development, clinical trial design, and ethical considerations associated with experimental therapeutics.

Located at UCL, one of the world's leading universities, the program benefits from state-of-the-art research facilities and collaborations with industry and healthcare providers. Students have opportunities to engage in cutting-edge research projects, internships, and seminars led by expert faculty who are active in pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, and clinical research. Graduates of this MSc program are well-equipped to pursue careers in pharmaceutical industry research and development, clinical research organizations, regulatory agencies, or further academic study including PhD research.

This program is suitable for students with backgrounds in pharmacy, medicine, biomedical sciences, or related fields who aspire to contribute to the development of innovative therapeutic solutions. Graduates will leave with a robust understanding of experimental techniques, critical analysis skills, and practical experience necessary to advance the field of therapeutics. By completing this MSc, students gain a competitive edge in the dynamic and growing field of pharmacology and drug development, making a significant impact in healthcare and scientific research.

In addition to providing experience of both classical and modern pharmacological techniques, the programme will help develop skills for literature search-based data acquisition and analysis; written and verbal communication of science; abstract writing; poster preparation; graphical processing; image preparation for publication; writing a scientific paper; and giving research presentations.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of three core modules (75 credits), one optional module (15 credits), and a research project (90 credits).

Core modules

• Investigative Pharmacology
• Molecular Pharmacology
• Practice of Science

Optional modules

Students choose one of the following:

• Advanced Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics
• Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics
• Drug Design and Development
• Neuropharmacology
• Pharmacology of Inflammation
• Receptor Mechanisms
• Synaptic Pharmacology
• Translational Neuroscience and Therapeutics

Dissertation/report

Students undertake an original research project which culminates in a 15,000-word dissertation and an oral presentation.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures, journal clubs, practicals, tutorials and a laboratory project. Student performance is evaluated through formal examination, coursework, and the research project.

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree from a UK university, in life sciences, pharmaceutics, biotechnology or pharmacy, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Professional or other qualifications obtained by written examinations and approved by UCL, together with at least three years of appropriate professional experience, will also be considered.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme (CSSS)

Value:

Full fees, flights, stipend, and other allowances (1 year)

Eligibility:

Overseas students

Criteria:

Based on both academic merit and financial need

The MSc in Experimental Pharmacology and Therapeutics at University College London is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the principles and applications of pharmacology in the development of new therapies. The programme offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from biology, chemistry, medicine, and pharmacology to prepare students for careers in research, clinical trials, and pharmaceutical industries. Students will explore various aspects of drug action, including receptor pharmacology, signal transduction, and pharmacokinetics, alongside the development and evaluation of therapeutic agents. The curriculum includes core modules such as principles of pharmacology, experimental design, drug development, and ethical considerations in research, complemented by optional modules tailored to specific interests like neuropharmacology, cardiopharmacology, or oncology pharmacology.

The program emphasizes practical skills alongside theoretical knowledge, with laboratory sessions, research projects, and opportunities for hands-on experience in state-of-the-art facilities. Students are encouraged to engage in independent research, culminating in a dissertation that addresses real-world problems in therapeutic development. UCL's strong links with industry partners and research institutions enhance employability and provide pathways for careers in academia, pharmaceutical companies, or regulatory agencies. The university's location in London offers access to a vibrant scientific community, numerous conferences, seminars, and networking opportunities.

Graduates of this program will be equipped with the necessary skills to design and evaluate new therapeutic agents, understand regulatory and safety aspects, and apply their knowledge to translational research. The MSc is suitable for students with backgrounds in biomedical sciences, pharmacy, medicine, or related fields seeking to advance their expertise in pharmacology and therapeutic development. Admission requirements typically include a good undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline, strong motivation, and an interest in pharmacological research. Overall, the MSc in Experimental Pharmacology and Therapeutics at UCL aims to produce highly skilled professionals capable of contributing to innovative therapeutic solutions and improving patient outcomes worldwide.