Pharmacy

The BSc Pharmacy programme at University College London offers students a comprehensive and rigorous education in the science and practice of pharmacy. Designed to equip graduates with the essential knowledge, skills, and attitudes required to become competent and confident pharmacists, this programme combines interdisciplinary coursework, practical training, and research opportunities. Students will explore fundamental subjects such as pharmaceutical sciences, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, and pharmaceutics, alongside modules on healthcare systems, patient-centered care, and professional ethics. The curriculum emphasizes active learning through lectures, laboratory work, simulations, and clinical placements, ensuring students are well-prepared for real-world pharmacy practice. Throughout the programme, students are encouraged to develop critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and effective communication skills to better serve diverse patient populations and healthcare environments. UCL's strong research heritage provides students with exposure to latest innovations and advances in pharmaceutical sciences, fostering a spirit of inquiry and lifelong learning. The programme also aims to instill a sense of professional responsibility and leadership, preparing graduates to adapt to the dynamic healthcare sector. Upon successful completion, students will be eligible to register as pharmacists with the General Pharmaceutical Council, enabling them to pursue careers in community pharmacy, hospital pharmacy, pharmaceutical industry, academia, or healthcare policy. The programme’s integration of academic excellence with practical application ensures graduates are not only knowledgeable but also highly employable and committed to improving patient outcomes. With a diverse and vibrant student community, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong industry links, the UCL Pharmacy BSc programme offers an outstanding foundation for a rewarding career in pharmacy and healthcare.

In each year of your degree you will take a number of individual modules, normally valued at 0.5 or 1.0 credits, adding up to a total of 4.0 credits for the year. Modules are assessed in the academic year in which they are taken. The balance of compulsory and optional modules varies from programme to programme and year to year. A 1.0 credit is considered equivalent to 15 credits in the European Credit Transfer System (ECTS).

The Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). An MPharm from an accredited UK school of pharmacy is the first step towards a career as a pharmacist. To qualify as a registered pharmacist in Britain you will need to undertake a year of pre-registration training after graduation and then pass the qualifying examinations of the GPhC.

The programme gives graduates an integrated and interdisciplinary perspective on the science of medicines and links this to the practice and ethics of the pharmacy profession. It includes contact with patients throughout, with students taking part in hospital visits, hospital and community pharmacy placements, and in-house patient interviews.

In the fourth year students undertake a research project in an area of pharmacy or pharmaceutical science. This project may be carried out in the school or with one of our NHS or European (Erasmus) partners.

A levels

Grades

AAA-AAB

Subjects

Chemistry and either Biology, Mathematics or Physics required.

GCSEs

English Language and Mathematics at grade B. For UK-based students, a grade C or equivalent in a foreign language (other than Ancient Greek, Biblical Hebrew or Latin) is required. UCL provides opportunities to meet the foreign language requirement following enrolment, further details at: www.ucl.ac.uk/ug-reqs

IB Diploma

Points

36-38

Subjects

A total of 17-18 points in three higher level subjects including Chemistry and one subject from Biology, Mathematics or Physics, with no score below 5.

The Bachelor of Pharmacy programme at University College London offers a comprehensive financial pathway designed to support students throughout their studies. The tuition fees for UK students are currently set at approximately £9,250 per year, with international students paying higher fees, which are subject to annual review and can be around £22,250 per year. These fees cover not only the academic instruction but also access to state-of-the-art laboratories, libraries, and support services necessary for a comprehensive pharmaceutical education.

Students enrolled in the programme are encouraged to explore various funding options, including government-funded loans and grants. For UK residents, Tuition Fee Loans from the Student Loans Company can cover the full cost of tuition, which are repayable only once the graduate starts earning above a certain income threshold. Additionally, the UK Government offers maintenance loans and grants to eligible students to support living expenses, accommodation, and other costs associated with university life.

International students are advised to secure funding through external scholarships, sponsorships, or personal resources, as UK government loans are not available to them. UCL also provides a limited number of scholarships specifically for international students based on academic merit, which can offset some of the costs associated with studying in London.

Living costs in London constitute a significant part of the total expenditure. Students should budget approximately £12,000 to £15,000 annually for accommodation, food, transportation, and other personal expenses. UCL offers various accommodation options, ranging from university halls to private rentals, with costs varying accordingly. Some students may also consider part-time work opportunities, which are available for international students under specific visa regulations, to help offset living expenses.

Moreover, the university provides dedicated financial advice and support services to help students navigate funding options, manage their budgets, and plan their finances effectively. It is recommended that prospective students thoroughly research and apply for all relevant funding opportunities early, as competition can be strong and application processes are time-sensitive. The curriculum is intensive and demanding, and financial stability is an important aspect of ensuring a successful academic experience.

In summary, the financing of the UCL Pharmacy programme involves a combination of tuition fees covered by government loans (for UK students), university scholarships, personal savings, and potentially part-time employment. Students are encouraged to plan their finances carefully, explore all available funding avenues, and seek guidance from university support services to ensure a smooth financial journey through their pharmacy studies.

The BSc Pharmacy at University College London (UCL) is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students for a professional career in pharmacy. The program emphasizes a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences, including medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, pharmaceutical technology, and clinical practice. Throughout the course, students gain essential knowledge of drug development, regulation, and patient care, supported by practical laboratory work and placements in healthcare settings. The curriculum is structured to promote a deep understanding of how medicines are designed, produced, and used in clinical scenarios. UCL's multidisciplinary approach allows students to collaborate across fields such as biomedical sciences, chemistry, and healthcare, fostering a broad understanding of pharmacy's role in the healthcare system. The university offers state-of-the-art facilities, including modern laboratories and simulation environments, to provide hands-on training. Additionally, students are encouraged to develop key skills in communication, problem-solving, and teamwork, which are vital for their future careers as pharmacists. The program is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), ensuring that graduates meet the necessary standards to register as pharmacists upon successful completion. UCL also offers opportunities for research projects and excursions abroad, supporting the development of innovative thinking and global perspectives. After completing the Bachelor’s degree, students typically proceed to pre-registration training and must pass the GPhC registration assessment to become licensed pharmacists. The UCL Pharmacy program maintains strong links with industry and healthcare providers, facilitating prospective employment and integration into the healthcare sector. This program is ideal for students passionate about science and eager to make a tangible difference in patients' lives through pharmacy practice.