Pharmacology

The BSc Pharmacology program at the University of Dundee offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles of how drugs interact with biological systems. This program is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for a career in the pharmaceutical industry, healthcare, or research. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including molecular and cellular pharmacology, neuropharmacology, cardiovascular pharmacology, and the mechanisms of drug action. Students will explore how drugs are developed, tested, and used to treat various diseases, gaining insight into the processes behind drug discovery and clinical application.

Throughout the course, students engage in laboratory work, gaining hands-on experience with various experimental techniques. This practical approach complements theoretical learning and prepares students for careers that demand a strong foundation in experimental science. The program also emphasizes critical thinking, data analysis, and communication skills, which are essential for professional progression in scientific and clinical settings.

In addition to core scientific subjects, students have opportunities to develop an understanding of related disciplines like biochemistry, physiology, and pharmacokinetics. The program encourages participation in research projects, internships, and collaborative work, fostering an environment of innovation and inquiry. The curriculum is designed to adapt to ongoing developments in pharmacological science, ensuring that graduates are well-prepared for the rapidly evolving healthcare landscape or further academic study.

Graduates of the BSc Pharmacology program at Dundee will be well-positioned to pursue careers in pharmaceutical research, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, or continue their education with postgraduate studies. The University’s supportive academic environment, state-of-the-art laboratories, and industry connections provide an ideal setting for aspiring pharmacologists to thrive. By the end of the program, students will have gained a robust foundation in pharmacological sciences, the skills to interpret scientific data critically, and the confidence to contribute to advancements in medicine and healthcare.

Detailed Course Facts

The fees you pay will, in most cases, depend on your current country of residence.

The fee shown is annual, and may be subject to an increase each year.

Fee category

Fees for students starting September 2015

Scottish students

£1,820 per year of study (for Sept 2014 entry). Fees for September 2015 will be confirmed by the Scottish Government in early 2015.

Rest of UK students

£9,000 per year, for a maximum of 3 years, even if you are studying a four year degree. See our scholarships for rest of UK applicants.

EU students

£1,820 per year of study (for Sept 2014 entry). Fees for September 2015 will be confirmed by the Scottish Government in early 2015.

Overseas students (non-EU)

£15,950 per year of study. See our scholarships for international applicants.

• English

Course Content

Typical Degree Programme

Levels 1 and 2

All Life Sciences degree programmes share common core modules at Level 1 that provide a general introduction to the life sciences through an integrated programme of lectures, tutorials, practical work and field excursions.

Please refer to the Biological/Biomedical Sciences degree structure and overview webpage for details of the common curriculum in Levels 1 and 2.

Level 3

At Level 3 you specialise in pharmacology, and choose additional subjects that interest you to study alongside your main subject. You will develop your knowledge and skills in the following aspects of pharmacology:

• Peripheral and central nervous system pharmacology
• Mechanisms of cell signalling
• Basic principles of drug-receptor interactions
• Aspects of molecular pharmacology
• Summer work placements

Many students take advantage of opportunities for summer work placements, normally between Levels 3 and 4, which are available as externally-funded competitive placements, or as voluntary laboratory work.

Level 4

Your studies at Level 4 will be at the level of current research in your chosen subject area.

Advanced study of topics in pharmacology that currently include:

• Cardiovascular pharmacology
• Pharmacogenomics (improving drug therapy and safety)
• Modulating the immune response
• Molecular aspects of toxicology and carcinogenesis
• Targeted treatments of cancer
• Neurodegenerative disorders
• Molecular mechanisms of learning and memory
• Psychobiology and treatment of mental illness
• Analgesics and anaesthetics

Your studies will involve extensive use of scientific literature and the opportunity to attend a regular programme of seminars given by invited speakers from Britain and abroad.

Research project - several formats are available including laboratory-based research under the supervision of a leading scientist, computer modelling, multimedia teaching packages, literature and electronic database review.

All modules are assessed by a combination of in-course and end-of-course procedures. Regular in-course assessments (e.g. practical reports, computer-based exercises, essays and data processing exercises) provide feedback on your progress and help you prepare for end-of-module examinations.

On-line assignments are used extensively at Levels 1 and 2, with access via a PC on or off campus. Peer assessment operates in many team projects.

Requirements

See Course Homepage for Full Details

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Dundee.

The BSc Pharmacology at the University of Dundee offers students a comprehensive understanding of how drugs interact with biological systems. This program provides foundational knowledge in biochemistry, physiology, and molecular biology, enabling students to explore the mechanisms of drug action, development, and therapeutic application. Students will learn about various drug classes, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and the role of pharmacology in addressing medical and societal challenges. The program combines classroom teaching with practical laboratory experience, fostering skills in experimental design, data analysis, and critical thinking. Students also have opportunities to participate in research projects, enhancing their understanding and preparing them for careers in pharmaceuticals, healthcare, or further academic study. The curriculum is designed to keep pace with advances in the field, incorporating modern techniques such as cell culture, imaging, and bioinformatics. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in science, paired with the development of transferable skills including teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Students are encouraged to engage in internships, placements, or study abroad opportunities to gain real-world experience. Graduates of the course are well-equipped to pursue careers in drug development, regulatory affairs, clinical research, or to continue their education at postgraduate level. The University of Dundee's renowned research institutes and links with industry provide students with access to cutting-edge developments and networking opportunities. Overall, the BSc Pharmacology program aims to produce knowledgeable, skilled, and innovative graduates who can contribute to advances in medicine and healthcare worldwide.