BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science Bachelor's degree at Liverpool John Moores University
BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science at LJMU covers core theory, research and methods, applied practice, specialist options, an independent project, and professional skills development.
About this course
Study Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science at LJMU to build pharmaceutical, cosmetic and laboratory skills. | Apply now for 2026 entry From the provider’s course page.
BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science is a Bachelor's degree (BSc (Hons)) at LJMU, based in City Centre Campus. It runs 3 years, studied full-time.
For Chemistry graduates from this provider, 75% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, 75% in highly skilled roles, typical earnings around £26,000. (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 75% (2022-23; Discover Uni snapshot 2026-06-21)
Published threshold met Discover Uni suppresses continuation data below its publication threshold. Cohort 2022-23. Continuation 95% (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 1 6 modules
- Physical PropertiesCore20 credits
Module details
This module will introduce the basic principles of physical chemistry as they relate to the formulation of drug products.
- Organic ChemistryCore20 credits
Module details
This module enables you to explore the structure, bonding, functionality and reactions of organic molecules with specific reference to pharmaceutically important drugs. You will also develop your ability to practice chemical laboratory skills.
- Principles of Human Biology and DiseaseCore20 credits
Module details
This module enables you to explore principles of human physiology and pathology with respect to homeostatic mechanisms. You will learn about bacteria, viruses and fungus and their role in human health and disease.
- Formulation ScienceCore20 credits
Module details
This module enables you to understand the physicochemical properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients and introduces you to the basic principles of pharmaceutical formulation.
- Analytical ChemistryCore20 credits
Module details
This module provides you with the basic, practical and relevant mathematical and analytical chemistry foundation for the quantitative aspects all Pharmaceutical modules.
- Biologically Active MoleculesCore20 credits
Module details
The aim of this module is to develop your ability to gather, evaluate and communicate scientific information in order to facilitate the application of information presented to solve problems.
Year 2 6 modules
- Principles of PharmacologyCore20 credits
Module details
The module aims to develop your knowledge of anatomical, physiological and pharmacological organisation of biological systems.
- Pharmaceutical FormulationCore20 credits
Module details
This module introduces you to the formulation, manufacture and testing of solid oral pharmaceutical dosage forms (tablets and capsules) as well as the development of oral modified release dosage forms.
- Synthetic and Natural DrugsCore20 credits
Module details
This module aims to present and illustrate the principles and processes involved in the discovery, acquisition of, and analysis of a range of natural, synthetic and biotechnologically produced drugs.
- Sterile Pharmaceutical ProductsCore20 credits
Module details
This module enables you to learn about the formulation, preparation, manufacture and quality control of sterile products. You will be able to describe and discuss the principles and practice of sterilisation and the concepts of quality assurance of sterile products.
- Pharmaceutical AnalysisCore20 credits
Module details
The aim of this module is to develop your knowledge, practical experience and interpretation skills necessary for the quantitative and qualitative analysis of chemical species relevant to the pharmaceutical industry.
- Principles of Cosmetic ProductsCore20 credits
Module details
The aim of this module is to develop your knowledge of the scientific principles applied in the preparation and analysis of cosmetic products.
Modules 3 modules
- Sandwich Year - Pharmaceutical ScienceOptional120 credits
Module details
The aim is to provide students with an extended period of work experience at an approved partner that will complement their programme of study at LJMU. This will give students the opportunity to develop professional skills relevant to their programme of study as well as the attitude and behaviours necessary for employment in a diverse and changing environment. This extended placement forms a key part of a sandwich degree. All placements need to be assessed and approved prior to commencement in l
- Study Year Abroad - Pharmaceutical ScienceOptional120 credits
Module details
The aim is to provide students with an additional year of study at an approved overseas partner that will complement their programme at LJMU. This is an additional year of full-time study at an approved higher education institution. The modules to be studied must be agreed in advance, and must be appropriate for the student's programme of study. Assuming successful completion of this year, mark-bearing credit will be awarded by the University Recognition Group. The grade conversion scale to be u
- Study Semester Abroad - Pharmaceutical ScienceOptional60 credits
Module details
The aim is to provide students with a semester of study at an approved overseas partner that will replace one semester of their LJMU programme at level 5.This is a semester of full-time study at an approved higher education institution which will replace one semester of level 5 study at LJMU. The modules to be studied must be agreed in advance, and must be an appropriate substitute for the modules being replaced. Assuming successful completion of this semester, mark-bearing credit will be awarde
Year 3 5 modules
- Industrial Product DevelopmentCore20 credits
Module details
Within this module, you will gain information relating to pharmaceutical manufacturing processes and the associated regulatory controls to ensure consistency of patient safety.
- Research Methods and ProjectCore40 credits
Module details
The aim of the module is to enable you to plan, execute and report results of a research project in the area of pharmaceutical sciences, using a range of appropriate resources and methodology.
- Advanced Pharmaceutical AnalysisCore20 credits
Module details
The module is designed to provide you with the concepts and practical experience necessary to pursue a career in an analytical role in the pharmaceutical industry, and to be aware of the limitations of analytical techniques upon which you may rely for information.
- Advanced Delivery SystemsCore20 credits
Module details
This module will present and illustrate methods for the formulation and application of advanced drug delivery systems.
- Safety Assessment of Pharmaceuticals and CosmeticsCore20 credits
Module details
The aim of this module is to gain an awareness and understanding of preclinical testing and management and regulation of clinical trials in the process of drug development.
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 builds pharmaceutical, cosmetic and laboratory skills through a structured progression. You'll usually start with biomedical sciences foundations, anatomy, physiology and pathology, alongside clinical and communication skills from year one. Early on, you'll also study population health and ethics. As you progress into years two and three, you'll move into clinical rotations across hospital and general practice settings, with attachments in specialised areas such as clinical placements, surgery, and psychiatry. Throughout, student-selected components allow you to pursue areas of particular interest, often involving research. This blend of foundational science, practical laboratory work and clinical exposure prepares you for professional practice in pharmaceutical and cosmetic science.
Who it's for
This course suits students interested in pharmaceutical development, cosmetic formulation, and related scientific practice. Most accepted students held A-levels or equivalent qualifications; the typical UCAS tariff among recent entrants was 144–159 points. Taught in English, it welcomes applicants from across the UK and internationally.
Careers & job market
Nationally, 89% of Medicine and Dentistry graduates are in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with 75% of working graduates in highly skilled roles or further study. Starting salaries across the field range from £27,000 to £32,000; after five years, graduates earn between £29,325 and £41,400. These are national figures from Graduate Outcomes and LEO data, not university-specific guarantees.
University & format
The BSc (Hons) Pharmaceutical and Cosmetic Science is studied full-time over 3 years at Liverpool John Moores University, a public university located at the City Centre Campus. Instruction is in English. The degree is awarded as a Bachelor's qualification and is a recognised UK degree-awarding body, so your qualification is nationally recognised. The university holds a Silver award 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.
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 | 80% |
| a foundation course | 10% |
| another higher-education qualification | 5% |
| Other | 5% |
Entry & your chances
An honest read from the official entry data, plus your personal match.
Accepted students typically held strong UCAS tariffs. Check how your predicted grades compare and whether a contextual offer applies.
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 SPC1). 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 LJMU →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 Learning Support Fund: Eligible nursing, midwifery and allied-health students can receive a non-repayable training grant. 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 | £26,000 | £23,000 – £32,000 | 25 |
| 3 years after | £23,500 | £19,500 – £29,500 | 50 |
| 5 years after | £29,000 | £25,000 – £37,500 | 45 |
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.
- Quality and Regulatory ProfessionalsSOC 2020 248 · 25% of published destinations · ASHE median £46,058
- Elementary occupationsSOC 2020 9 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £19,087
- Science, engineering and technology associate professionalsSOC 2020 31 · 15% of published destinations · ASHE median £34,828
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: 50; response rate: 55%. 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
75% were in work or further study 15 months after graduating, with a median salary of £26,000. 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 8.3 out of 10: NSS 80.1% · in work or study 75% · continued 95%.
Who studies here and in this subject?
Provider- and UK subject-level context.
Liverpool John Moores 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 City Centre Campus
5,301 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 LJMU from outside the UK involves: fees, English, visa, funding and living costs.
Tuition fees
International tuition is set per course by LJMU; 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 LJMU’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 LJMU and gov.uk before you apply.
Related courses
More at LJMU
Common questions
How competitive is entry?
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What do graduates go on to do?
What will it cost me?
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