BSc (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation Year Bachelor's degree at Keele University

Exploration of fundamental concepts in the structure and function of biological molecules, from the three-dimensional structure of proteins and the activity of enzymes to the progress and organisation of major metabolic pathways. Development of key skills in data analysis, presentation and communication through reporting outcomes of laboratory investigations in enzyme kinetics.

Introduction to the major physiological systems and anatomical structures of the human organism, including the digestive, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. Exploration of how different pathologies can develop as a result of dysfunction in these systems and their impact. Group-based activities develop key skills in teamwork and leadership, and in communicating to different audiences.

Introduction to processes by which pharmaceuticals enter the market covering the stages involved from pre-clinical candidate selection and development, through to clinical trials. Core principles in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. Understanding of the physiko-chemical properties of drug molecules and specific examples of drugs/ligands and target binding interactions, including receptor pharmacology, supported with small group case-based learning tutorials.

Introduction to the fundamentals of molecular cell biology. Exploration of how genetic information is stored, replicated and processed; the roles played by nucleic acids in the production of proteins; how proteins get to their final locations within cells and how cells interact with each other and communicate to co-ordinate their activities. Development of key skills in the presentation and communication of information in various formats.

Development of a range of core practical laboratory skills, applying theoretical concepts from across the programme and deepening understanding of the subject through hypothesis-driven practical investigation. Additional workshops support development of wider academic skills, including effective study practice, data analysis and communication. Aspirational career talks from invited speakers, including former graduates, and further employability skills workshops.

Exploration of how to study and manipulate genetic material, including sequencing technologies, gene cloning, and genetic engineering. Learning how these techniques can be used to study the structure and function of single genes and proteins, design and engineer DNA molecules, and produce novel gene products such as therapeutic drugs. Development of skills in introductory bioinformatics, insights into important ethical principles, and key reasoning and analytical skills through tutorials and wor

Examination of the specialisation and interdependence of metabolism exploring key aspects of metabolic regulation, and issues surrounding its changes in inherited and acquired disease (including hypertension, metabolic disease, and cardiovascular disease). Learning how these conditions can be investigated experimentally and modified through relevant pharmacological approaches. Development of communication and teamwork skills through tutorials, workshops, and active group discussion sessions as w

Development of understanding of the delivery, potency and mode of action of select pharmacological agents, applied specifically to selective or targeted toxicity, e.g. in the treatment of cancer, microbial and viral infection. Introduction to the application of pharmacology in agricultural settings, e.g. pesticides and their potential impact on human health and disease. Support through lab practicals and tutorials, developing a more independent, enquiry-based approach.

Investigation of the effects of neurological medications including basic principles of neuropharmacology and molecular mechanisms, and putting these in context with wider disciplines such as population health, health economics, and neuroanatomy. Evaluation of advances made in neuropharmacology towards precision therapy and personalised medicine in recent years.

Exploration of how cells communicate, including the major classes of signalling molecules, different receptor types, and their mode of action. Evaluation of how dysregulation of cellular communication contributes to different disease states, and how these pathways can be targeted for therapeutic intervention.

Bringing together skills of experimental design and data analysis which are a vital step in the process of scientific research. Exploration of the different forms of scientific experimental design that may be encountered in final year experimental projects. Development of data analysis skills essential in final year and onwards into postgraduate study or employment in a data-driven world.

Expansion of practical skills through enquiry-based, hypothesis-driven laboratory investigations applying key skills and competencies to more advanced molecular and analytical techniques. Development of higher-level skills in the acquisition and analysis of information from online sources, including journal databases and generative AI. Support in evaluating career readiness with employability skills-focused workshops in areas including CV writing and interview technique.

Exploration of how the immune system develops, the cellular basis of immune response, and functional insights into immune protein and pathogen structure. Development of key skills in data analysis, reporting outcomes of laboratory investigations using immunotechniques, and exploration of the Protein Data Bank, used by scientists to enable breakthroughs in science through the visualization and analysis of 3D structures.

Exploration of a range of pathogenic organisms and the diseases they cause. Consideration of approaches to treatment and management of disease, ranging from development of novel antimicrobials to vaccination strategies, and the use of select viruses and microorganisms as research tools. Development of key skills in literature analysis and communicating to different audiences through the production of content on a select module topic.

Following the pathway of a drug substance through the body, including key areas of pharmaceutics, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. Lectures and problem classes complemented with topical case studies highlighting recent developments in the pharmaceutical industry. Mini-symposia exploring a range of drug classes in which you will prepare and deliver an oral presentation looking in depth into the mechanism of action and pharmaceutical context of a drug molecule of your choice.

Further exploration of the drug development pipeline with a focus on the translation of drugs from pre-clinical studies and clinical trials to clinical practice and associated ethical and regulatory frameworks, including patient demographics and personalised medicine. Assessment of potential toxicity, poisoning, or adverse interactions of drugs derived from herbal products or traditional medicine. Further development of communication and analytical skills through the production of a case report.

Development of higher-level skills in the analysis and evaluation of primary research articles in pharmacology, developing analytical skills and wider understanding of the mechanisms of drug action, pharmacokinetics and ligand-target binding interactions. Further development of communication skills in a number of formats, including how the outcomes of primary research can be communicated to specialist audiences as a research poster and to non-specialist audiences in popular science articles and

Carrying out a substantial piece of meaningful research, drawing together skills in experimental study design, critical interpretation of data, and professional competencies. Choice from a range of projects depending on interests and career ambitions, including lab- or field-based research, systematic reviews, bioinformatics, teaching and learning, or outreach. Culminates in a student conference that gives the opportunity to celebrate and share achievements with peers.

Development of skillsets needed to communicate effectively to diverse audiences. Exploration of a range of communication methods to present and disseminate findings to inform and enthuse both scientific and lay audiences. Development of a suite of valuable transferrable skills for the employment market.

Gaining hands-on experience, enhancing employability skills, and providing valuable insights into the professional world. Support via a range of activities to secure a role and ability to source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles. Built-in flexibility on when and how to complete your placement, enabling you to balance your placement around existing demands.