MSci (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation Year Integrated Master's degree at Keele University
MSci (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation Year at Keele University. The foundation year ensures you develop the scientific fundamentals needed for postgraduate-level study.
About this course
Advance in pharmacology and drive innovation in drug discovery and development with Pharmacology with Integrated Master’s MSci at Keele. Learn more. From the provider’s course page.
MSci (Hons) Pharmacology with Foundation Year is an Integrated Master's degree (MSci (Hons)) at Keele University. It runs 5 years, studied full-time.
For Pharmacology, toxicology and pharmacy graduates from this provider, 95% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 95% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £28,000. (HESA Graduate Outcomes / LEO, via Discover Uni.)
For the typical curriculum, specialisations, career paths and graduate earnings for Medicine & Dentistry, see the sections below.
Course evidence score
The arithmetic mean of the official measures available for this course: NSS satisfaction, graduate activity and continuation.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Limited evidence Published sample: 25; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2022-23. Graduate Outcomes work or further study 95% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 87% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Curriculum & modules
Real modules published for this course, grouped only where the source gives a year, stage or level.
Year one 5 modules
- Molecules of LifeCompulsory
Module details
Explore fundamental concepts in understanding 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. Develop key skills in data analysis, presentation and communication.
- Human Physiology and AnatomyCompulsory
Module details
Introduce the major physiological systems and anatomical structures of the human organism, including the digestive, cardiovascular and endocrine systems. Explore how different pathologies can develop as a result of dysfunction in these systems.
- Introduction to PharmacologyCompulsory
Module details
Introduce processes by which pharmaceuticals enter the market covering stages from pre-clinical candidate selection and development through to clinical trials. Cover core principles in pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics and the physiko-chemical properties of drug molecules.
- Molecular Cell BiologyCompulsory
Module details
Introduce the fundamentals of molecular cell biology. Explore 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 and communicate.
- Practical and Academic Skills in BioscienceCompulsory
Module details
Develop a range of core practical laboratory skills, applying theoretical concepts and deepening understanding through hypothesis-driven practical investigation. Support development of wider academic skills including effective study practice, data analysis and communication.
Year two 9 modules
- Applications of Molecular BiologyCompulsory
Module details
Explore how to study and manipulate genetic material, including sequencing technologies, gene cloning, and genetic engineering. Learn how these techniques can be used to study the structure and function of single genes and proteins, and produce novel gene products such as therapeutic drugs.
- Molecular PharmacologyCompulsory
Module details
Examine 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.
- ToxicologyCompulsory
Module details
Continue to develop 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.
- NeuropharmacologyCompulsory
Module details
Investigate the effects of neurological medications including basic principles of neuropharmacology and molecular mechanisms, and put these in context with wider disciplines such as population health, health economics, and neuroanatomy.
- Cell SignallingCompulsory
Module details
Explore how cells communicate with each other and their environment, including the major classes of signalling molecules, different receptor types, and their mode of action. Evaluate how dysregulation of cellular communication contributes to different disease states.
- Research and Analytical SkillsCompulsory
Module details
Bring together skills of experimental design and data analysis which are a vital step in scientific research. Explore different forms of scientific experimental design and hone data analysis skills essential for final year projects.
- Practical and Professional Skills in BioscienceCompulsory
Module details
Expand practical skills through enquiry-based, hypothesis-driven laboratory investigations applying key skills and competencies to more advanced molecular and analytical techniques. Develop higher-level skills in the acquisition and analysis of information.
- Molecular, Cellular and Structural ImmunologyOptional
Module details
Explore how the immune system develops, the cellular basis of immune response, and gain functional insights into immune protein and pathogen structure. Develop key skills in data analysis and reporting the outcomes of laboratory investigations using immunotechniques.
- Microbes, Viruses and ParasitesOptional
Module details
Explore a range of pathogenic organisms and the diseases they cause. Consider approaches to treatment and management of disease, ranging from development of novel antimicrobials to vaccination strategies.
Level 5 1 modules
- Flexible Work PlacementOptional
Module details
Gain hands-on experience, enhance employability skills, and provide valuable insights into the professional world. Supported via a range of activities to secure a role and can source your own placement or apply to university-sourced roles.
Year three 3 modules
- Mechanisms of Drug ActionCompulsory
Module details
Follow the pathway of a drug substance through the body, including key areas of pharmaceutics, pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. Mini-symposia exploring a range of drug classes where you will prepare and deliver an oral presentation.
- Clinical Pharmacology and ToxicologyCompulsory
Module details
Further explore 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. Assess potential toxicity, poisoning, or adverse interactions of drugs.
- Research Topics in PharmacologyCompulsory
Module details
Develop higher-level skills in the analysis
Source: provider course page. Modules can change; required/optional status, credits, descriptions and assessment are shown only when explicitly published.
Course in depth
What this course covers, who it suits and where it leads.
What you'll study
This course integrates advanced pharmacology with foundation-year study to prepare you for independent research and drug development. You'll usually begin with biomedical sciences core material, anatomy, physiology and pathology, alongside clinical and communication skills from the outset. Years 1–2 also cover population health and ethics. As you progress into years 3–4, a course like this typically moves from classroom foundations into clinical rotations across hospital and general practice settings, specialty attachments such as psychiatry and surgery, and student-selected components where you pursue areas of particular interest, often involving research. In your final year, you'll focus on assistantship and preparation for practice, an elective placement of your choice, and integrated assessment. Throughout, you'll develop the knowledge and practical competency needed for professional work in pharmacology and drug discovery.
Who it's for
This course suits students who want to develop expertise in pharmacology through structured, research-informed teaching. Most entrants held A-levels or equivalent qualifications; accepted students typically had a UCAS tariff of 112–127 points. You'll benefit from a university with around 10,600 students and a commitment to teaching excellence. Keele's degrees are nationally recognised as UK degree-awarding qualifications.
University & format
This is a full-time, 5-year integrated Master's degree (MSci Hons) taught in English at Keele University, a university founded in 1949 and located in Keele. The course leads to a nationally recognised UK degree-awarding qualification. Keele holds Gold for teaching quality in the Office for Students' TEF 2023.
Student satisfaction
How students on this course answered the National Student Survey, by theme.
Share of students responding positively.
Published threshold met NSS publication requires sufficient responses; small differences are not a rank. NSS mean of 7 published themes (Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Applicant information
The next application dates for this course, followed by facts the provider publishes.
- 2027 entryCompleted applications can be submitted
Your application needs a reference before you can send it.
- 2026 entryFinal date for 2026 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2026 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
- 2027 entryEqual-consideration deadline
18:00 UK time for most undergraduate courses.
Show 5 later dates
- 2027 entryUCAS Extra opens
Applicants who used all five choices and hold no offer may be able to add another choice.
- 2027 entryLast day applications go directly to providers
Applications received after 18:00 UK time are entered into Clearing.
- 2027 entryClearing opens
Eligible applicants can see vacancies and release themselves into Clearing.
- 2027 entryFinal date for 2027 applications
Applications must reach UCAS by 18:00 UK time.
- 2027 entryLast day to add a Clearing choice
Check that this course still has a vacancy before adding it.
Contextual Offer Eligibility and any reduced offer are applicant-specific.
Placement year. Availability, selection and pay can vary.
See and book current events. Dates can fill or change.
Entry & how to get in
Who gets in
What recently admitted students actually held, official admissions data, not a stated requirement.
UCAS tariff of entrants
Grades are the A-level equivalent of each points band. Tap a band to check your own chances below.
Qualifications held on entry
| Qualification | Share |
|---|---|
| A-levels or equivalent | 93% |
| another higher-education qualification | 3% |
| an Access course | 3% |
| a previous degree | 1% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Entry is set by the university and based on your offer. Use your predicted grades to see how you compare, then check the university's stated requirements.
Will you get in? Plot your grades
Pick your predicted A-levels and watch your UCAS points land on the real spread of students admitted to this course.
Each bar is the share of admitted students in that UCAS-points band (lower → higher). Grades show the A-level equivalent.
Based on the official admitted-student tariff distribution. Many universities make contextual (reduced-grade) offers, so a result below the range doesn’t rule you out.
How to apply
Undergraduate applications go through UCAS. Here’s what matters for this course, the right deadline, the grades to aim for, and the steps in order.
- 1Register on UCAS Hub
Create your UCAS application and add this course (code B212). One application covers up to five choices.
- 2Write your personal statement
A single statement covers all your choices, so keep it broad enough for similar courses while showing genuine interest in this subject.
- 3Submit by 13 January 2027, 18:00 UK time
UCAS equal-consideration deadline for most undergraduate courses. Source: UCAS 2027 dates.
- 4Reply to your offers
When decisions are in, pick a firm (first) choice and an insurance (back-up) choice with slightly lower grades.
- 5Results day & confirmation
On results day (mid-August) your place is confirmed if you meet the offer. Just missed? Talk to the university, or find a place through Clearing.
Fees & funding
What this course costs and how UK student finance covers it.
Tuition per year
Standard capped home fee at English providers (2026/27); Scotland, Wales & NI differ.
Check fees at Keele University →For students who normally live in England
2026/27 Student Finance England figures. Maintenance support is means-tested and this two-point view is not an entitlement calculator. The course total uses its published length and home fee where both are available; a missing full-time fee uses the clearly labelled England-cap scenario, while part-time fees and unknown lengths are never guessed. Use the official calculator. Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland use separate systems: SAAS, Student Finance Wales, and Student Finance NI.
Starting on or after 1 January 2027?
The Lifelong Learning Entitlement is a separate system. A new learner’s tuition entitlement is currently stated as £39,160 (about 480 credits at 2026/27 fee levels), subject to prior study and eligibility. Check the official LLE guide.
Paying for it
- Tuition Fee Loan: can cover eligible tuition up to the applicable limit and is paid straight to the provider.
- Maintenance Loan: up to £10,830/yr away from home outside London (England, 2026/27), means-tested on household income.
- Repayment: 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below it; written off after 40 years.
- Earn alongside: most students work part-time in term, part-time roles on the StudySmarter job board.
England figures shown; Scotland, Wales & NI run their own schemes, check gov.uk.
Scholarships & bursaries you could qualify for
That does not mean no funding exists. Check the university directory for current amounts, eligibility and application dates.
National funding for this subject
- NHS Bursary: Eligible medical and dental students can receive NHS support in the later years of study. Official guidance
We only display a named award when its provider source identifies the award and who it is for.
Still deciding what to study?
StudyKit brings course choice, applications and funding together in one place, with a personal AI assistant. Find what really fits you and start your UCAS application step by step.
Careers & earnings
What Medicine & Dentistry graduates actually earn, from real outcome data, 15 months, 3 years and 5 years after graduating.
Graduate earnings: this course
| When | Median | Typical range | Graduates |
|---|---|---|---|
| 15 months after | £28,000 | £22,000 – £37,500 | 25 |
| 3 years after | £34,500 | £19,500 – £40,500 | 55 |
| 5 years after | £38,500 | £29,000 – £45,500 | 65 |
Nominal earnings for graduates of this course/subject at this provider. Limited evidence. Published sample: 25; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2022-23.
Graduate outcomes, 15 months on: this course
- 1Graduate roleFirst role after the degree · 0–2 yrs
- 2Specialist / PractitionerWorking in medicine & dentistry · 2–5 yrs
- 3Senior / LeadLeading work and people · 5–10 yrs
- 4Head of / ExpertSenior leadership or deep expertise · 10+ yrs
How pay grows: this course vs Medicine & Dentistry nationally
National figures for Medicine & Dentistry graduates, HESA Graduate Outcomes (15 months) and the Longitudinal Education Outcomes (LEO) dataset (3 & 5 years). These are national, not university-specific; actual pay varies by employer, region, role and experience. Different cohorts, so the bars are not one group over time.
Work out your pay
Headline figures hide a lot. Calculate realistic take-home pay for this field by role, region and experience, then check your CV before you apply.
What happened to 100 students?
Choose an outcome to translate the published percentage into a simple 100-person view. Each dot represents one percentage point, not an individual tracked student.
were in work or further study
15 months after graduation
Source: Discover Uni, using Graduate Outcomes and continuation data. Cohorts: 2022-23. Limited evidence. Published sample: 25; treat comparisons cautiously. Cohort 2022-23. Each tab is a separate published measure; categories can overlap and should not be added together.
Value compared with similar courses
How this course’s 5-year median earnings compare with Medicine & Dentistry courses at the same study level.
Compared with 804 courses with compatible official earnings data. This is a course-value comparison, not a quality ranking.
UK occupations graduates enter
Published graduate destinations, joined conservatively to UK SOC 2020, ONS pay and Skills England demand.
- Other Health ProfessionalsSOC 2020 225 · 95% of published destinations · ASHE median £42,902
Discover Uni JOBLIST/JOBTYPE; ONS ASHE 2025 provisional, all employee jobs; Skills England Occupations in Demand 2025. SOC is shown only for an exact normalised label match; demand is shown only at exact four-digit SOC. Published sample: 105; response rate: 60%. Pay describes the occupation across workers, not a guaranteed graduate salary.
Job market & outlook
How Medicine & Dentistry graduates fare in the labour market, and how AI is reshaping the work.
How AI is changing the work
AI doesn't replace the profession, it shifts it: routine tasks get automated, while judgement, working with people and using AI well become more valuable.
What AI takes off your plate
- Routine information gathering
- First-draft writing and summaries
- Standard analysis and admin
- Repetitive processing tasks
More human than ever
- Judgement and original thinking
- Working with and leading people
- Owning and sense-checking AI output
- Ethics and accountability
The strongest graduates pair subject depth with the ability to use AI tools critically.
Roles & employers
Where Medicine & Dentistry graduates typically go, indicative destinations from graduate career data. Each role links to live openings on the StudySmarter job board.
Roles graduates go into
Where they work
- The NHS
- Private practice
- Research & academia
- Public health
Jobs after this course
Current roles from the StudySmarter job board that suit Medicine & Dentistry graduates.
Medicine-Focused Veterinary Surgeon | Patient Care LeaderMedivet & PartnersMedicine Service Delivery Manager - Operations ImprovementNHSMedicine Occupational Therapist - StaffordshirePulse HealthcarePart-Time Palliative Medicine Consultant | 1-in-5 On-CallEvora Hospice (formerly Southern Area Hospice Services)Consultant Medicine - ElderlyPertemps Medical ProfessionalsSpecialty Doctor in Acute MedicineTriple West MedicalIs this course right for you?
The essentials UK applicants ask about: finance, outcomes, entry and quality.
Student finance
For comparison, the standard full-time England tuition cap is up to £9,790 per year in 2026/27; the actual fee varies by course and provider. If you normally live in England, eligible students can apply for a Tuition Fee Loan, plus a Maintenance Loan for living costs. Under Plan 5 you repay 9% of income above £25,000, nothing below that, and the balance is written off after 40 years.
Where graduates go
95% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £28,000. See the full breakdown in Careers & earnings above.
Your entry chances
Use the UCAS points calculator above to see how your predicted grades compare with admitted students, and whether a contextual offer could apply.
Official-data snapshot
Averaging the official measures published for it, this course scores 8.8 out of 10: NSS 80.9% · in work or study 95% · continued 87%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Keele University
Medicine and dentistry across the UK
HESA student record 2024/25. Counts are rounded.
Local crime-data context
A neutral snapshot around the published teaching location.
Around Keele University
88 street-level reports returned within roughly one mile across 2026-04 to 2026-06.
Police.uk street-level API. Approximate locations, not confined to campus. England, Wales and Northern Ireland; not Scotland.
Is Medicine & Dentistry right for you?
Tick what applies to you and see how good a fit it is.
International students
What applying to Keele University from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is set per course by Keele University; international fees are typically £12,000–£30,000/year for classroom subjects and higher for lab/clinical ones. You’re not eligible for UK Tuition Fee or Maintenance Loans, so plan for fees plus living costs upfront.
English language
Most UK undergraduate courses ask for around IELTS 6.0–6.5 (no band below 5.5–6.0), or an accepted equivalent. If you’re just short, most universities run a pre-sessional English course that counts towards the requirement.
Student visa
You’ll usually need a Student visa (Student Route). After you accept an offer the university issues a CAS; you then show funds for fees plus about £1,023–£1,334/month living costs and pay the Immigration Health Surcharge for NHS access.
Scholarships & funding
Many universities offer international/global scholarships (often £2,000–£6,000/yr), check Keele University’s funding pages.
Living costs
Budget roughly £1,100–£1,400/month outside London and £1,400–£1,800/month in London for rent, food and travel; the figure also matters for your visa.
Working while you study
A Student visa usually allows up to 20 hours/week in term time and full-time in holidays, useful alongside study, though not something to rely on for fees.
Visa rules and fees change. Always confirm the current requirements with Keele University and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at Keele University
Common questions
How competitive is entry?
What are the entry requirements?
What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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