Karen Anthony
Professor of Molecular Medicine
level:UG;top_up:false;international:true;foundation:true;clearing:true;full_time:true;part_time:true;start_month:September;location:Waterside
Pharmacology BSc (Hons)
Key Facts
-
UCAS Code
BSc: B210
BSc with Foundation: B211 -
Duration
Full Time: 3 years
Full Time Foundation: 4 years
Part Time: 4 - 6 years
-
BBC at A Level or,
DMM at BTEC Extended Diploma
GCSE Maths and English Language at Grade C/4 or above or equivalent -
Full Time: £9,790
Part Time: £1,630 (per 20 credits)
Integrated Foundation Year: £9,790
Get in touch
UK STUDENTS ENQUIRIES
study@northampton.ac.uk
0300 303 2772
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS ENQUIRIES
Updated 04/09/2026
Pharmacology is the study of drugs and how they interact and work on the body.
On our BSc Pharmacology degree, you will learn how drugs are made into medicines and how drugs and other chemicals interact at the molecular, cellular and systems levels in the body.
Pharmacologists have been key to the development of drugs and vaccines that have improved the treatment of many of the diseases of modern society, including the treatment of bacterial infections with antibiotics, HIV with anti-retroviral drugs, mental health with antidepressant drugs and antipsychotics and cardiovascular diseases with statins and antihypertensives
Accreditation of this Pharmacology degree is being sought from the Royal Society of Biology – the leading professional body for the biological sciences in the United Kingdom.
Royal Society of Biology Accredited Degree
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment.
Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.
Highlights
- Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology
- Build confidence through extensive hands-on laboratory experience from the start of your course.
- Develop career-ready skills in problem-solving, data analysis, scientific communication and critical thinking.
- Explore cutting-edge topics including drug discovery, biotechnology and healthcare innovation.
- Learn from active researchers, bringing the latest developments in pharmacology, drug discovery and biomedical science into the classroom.
- Complete an independent research project
- Benefit from growing industry links
- Receive individual academic support while gaining the practical, research-focused and industry-relevant skills needed to succeed in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and healthcare sectors.
- Guaranteed route into MSc Molecular Medicine on completion of this course at UON*
- HP laptop and software included with this course for eligible pharmacology students* (*see Eligibility criteria and Terms and Conditions)
Example of the type of equipment students use within their science classes.
Students using equipment in science class in the Creative Hub Science Labs.
Entry Requirements
A typical offer for this degree in Pharmacology would be:
- BBC at A Level
- DMM at BTEC Extended Diploma (in Applied Science, Applied Human Biology or Pharmaceutical Science or similar science subject) or,
- Access to Higher Education: 30 Level 3 Credits at Merit
- Merit in T Level Science
- GCSE Maths and English Language required at Grade C/4 or above or equivalent.
For A Levels, you are expected to have studied two science A Level subjects (one at Grade C in Chemistry or Biology, and one other in Biology, Chemistry, Human Biology, Maths or Physics), or equivalent qualification.
For more information on how to make an application, please visit our How to Apply page.
For more information on how to apply as an International student, please visit our How to Apply page.
Admission to this foundation year is normally:
- DEE at A Level (applicants are expected to have studied two science A Level subjects (one in Chemistry or Biology, and one other in Biology, Chemistry, Human Biology, Maths or Physics)) or,
- MPP at BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma (in Applied Science, Applied Human Biology or Pharmaceutical Science or similar science subject) or
- Pass (D or E) at T Level
However, we would also like to hear from you if you have professional or industry experience instead, or a range of other qualifications or self-developed subject knowledge that relates to the course you wish to study.
All International and EU students applying for a course with the University of Northampton must meet the following minimum English language requirements:
- IELTS 6.0 (or equivalent) with a minimum of 5.5 in all bands
for study at undergraduate level
For information regarding English language requirements at the University, please see our IELTS page.
If you would like information on making an application, please see our How to Apply page.
For information on how to apply to study with us as an International student, please see our How to Apply for International Study page.
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What You'll Learn
Pharmacologists will be at the forefront of the development and design of cthw next generation of medicines for the treatment of diseases for the 21st century. As a student of Pharmacology BSc, you will be preparing to meet the challenges of developing molecules into medicines.
In studying this program, you will gain an in-depth understanding of the principles and biological action of drugs and chemicals, at the molecular, cellular and systems level and their use as medicines for the treatment of diseases.
Our course has been designed to meet the standards of the British Pharmacological Society’s (BPS) undergraduate core curriculum. Course modules are structured using a variety of methods including lectures, seminars and laboratory practical classes.
Compulsory Modules
The purpose of this module is to give level 4 students an introduction to human biochemistry and cell biology. You will study the molecules and chemical processes that occur in living organisms, and explore the structure and function of cells, their components, and their interactions with the external environment.
The purpose of this module is to provide an insight into how invading organisms can cause disease and relate human world health issues to populations. This module allows students to develop a broad understanding of infectious disease across the globe and the biology of the the causative agents, as well as examining intrinsic & extrinsic strategies to combat microbial pathogens.
The purpose of this module is to give you an introduction to genetics and molecular biology. You will learn about the fundamental mechanisms of DNA replication, transcription and translation. You will also explore how the tools of molecular biology, including cloning and PCR, allow the manipulation and understanding of genes and the proteins they encode.
The purpose of this module is to provide an appropriate level of understanding of the anatomy and to introduce the student to the basic principles and concepts of physiology. Enabling an understanding of different body systems and how they are integrated to produce homeostasis.The focus will be on human anatomy & physiology and will study the form and functions of the major body systems.
The purpose of this module is to introduce students to the laboratory practices best suited for the discipline of biochemistry. Students will study molecules and chemical interactions and how we identify them while applying this understanding to identifying disease.
The purpose of this module is to provide level 4 students with an introduction to the fundamental chemical principles necessary to understand the chemistry of biological systems. The module will study organic, inorganic and physical chemistry. It will entail studying atomic and molecular structure and chemical interactions leading to a description of the reactivity of the function groups and reaction mechanisms that are found in biological systems and the fundamental forces that underpin chemical kinetics.
Please note the modules shown here relate to the academic year 26/27. The modules relating to the academic year 27/28 will be available from June 2027.
At the University of Northampton, everything we do, from funded trips to paid internships, is to give you everything you need to make a difference when you leave.
If you join this full time degree, you will receive a laptop when your course begins*. The laptops are built to a bespoke custom specification ideal for use in the seminar room, collaborative group work, or studying at home.
Whatever your ambitions, we’re here to help you achieve them. We’ll support you to identify the skills you’re learning during your pharmacology course, find your strengths and secure practical experience so that when it comes to applying for jobs or further study you’ll feel confident in standing out from the crowd.
We’ve created the Northampton Employability Promise because we are so confident that if you focus on your studies and complete one of our awards you’ll be highly employable by the time you graduate. Putting you in a great position to secure employment or continue your studies.
To check out the full list of perks, visit our Student Perks page or dedicated International Perks page.
*UK fee payers only (see Terms and Conditions for further details).
The Integrated Foundation Year (IFY) offers a new and exciting route into studying your chosen course, attracting ambitious and driven students who are willing to learn and advance.
If you have non-standard qualifications or do not quite meet the admissions requirements we can offer you a fantastic opportunity to study a four year programme which includes an Integrated Foundation Year. The Integrated Foundation Year will help you develop the theoretical/practical and academic skills you need to successfully progress to the full award.
Our four-year courses will enable you to successfully follow the degree pathway of your choice while gaining essential study skills. The foundation year of your chosen degree will be studied on a full-time basis and is aimed at supporting the transition to higher education. Years two, three and four are then studied as a standard degree programme.
An optional placement year is available for students who have successfully completed completed stages 1 and 2 of their Pharmacology studies. Advice will be given to help find placements. This will give you the opportunity to gain a year‘s extra work-based learning experience in a science related placement, spent either in the UK or abroad.
* Guaranteed route into MSc Molecular Medicine on completion of this course at UON with a 2:2 classification, provided all standard progression requirements are met. Progression may also be subject to visa approval and compliance checks for international students, and there must be no outstanding debt that would prevent enrolment.
Why study pharmacology?
This pharmacology course is suited to those wanting to pursue a career in the pharmaceutical industry or in biomedical research as well as graduate entry to medicine.
You can have confidence that this program will prepare you for your future career because it has been designed to meet the standards of the British Pharmacological Society’s (BPS) undergraduate core curriculum.
How will I be taught?We aim to provide an environment that maximises engagement, involvement and enjoyment in your studies. You will participate in a variety of activities that support and enhance your learning. This will include traditional face to face lessons, laboratory practicals, tutorials and online sessions through our virtual classroom.
The aim of the three year program is to provide you with opportunities to be actively involved in your learning. This is facilitated by an active blended learning approach that combines face-to-face sessions with integrated online learning, implemented in our Northampton Interactive Learning Environment (NILE).
How will I be assessed on the degree in Pharmacology?In each of the modules you take each semester, you will typically have 2 assessments per module. These will be through coursework and formal examinations throughout your study. An estimate of the different forms of assessment is as follows:
- Essays 30%
- Examinations 20%
- Practical work 25%
- Presentations, posters 20%
- Time constrained tests 5%
Getting a degree in pharmacology opens up a variety of different career pathways within the pharmaceutical and wider health industries.
You could become a pharmacologist, medical researcher, pharmaceutical regulator, medical writer or a clinical scientist. The skills gained can also allow you to become a scientific patent lawyer and work in the finance sector. Getting this qualification will also open up avenues for further study where can enhance your education even further.
Research opportunitiesAs a Pharmacology student, you will have the opportunity to work on your own research project, tackling real-world health challenges and exploring the science behind tomorrow’s medicines and treatments.
You could investigate exciting areas such as:
- Drug discovery and medicinal chemistry, helping to develop new medicines that improve lives.
- Cancer biology, exploring how cancer develops and how new therapies can target disease.
- Cellular signalling pathways, uncovering how cells communicate and respond to their environment.
- Regenerative medicine, researching innovative approaches to repairing and replacing damaged tissues.
- Pharmacological mechanisms of disease, understanding how diseases affect the body and how drugs can be used to treat them.
- Antimicrobial drug resistance, addressing one of the biggest global challenges in modern healthcare.
- Biofilm research and development, investigating how microorganisms survive and impact human health.
Make a Real Impact Through Research
Your research project gives you the chance to apply the scientific knowledge and laboratory skills you have developed throughout your degree to genuine biomedical challenges. Along the way, you will strengthen your abilities in experimental design, data analysis, critical thinking and scientific communication, skills that are highly valued by employers and postgraduate study programmes.
Whether your goal is a career in the pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, healthcare science or academic research, you will graduate with hands-on research experience that helps you stand out.
£800,000 Science Boost
As one of only 60 institutions across the UK to receive the Office for Student (OfS) capital investment funding, the University of Northampton has committed to delivering a cutting edge biomedical laboratory teaching and data analysis suite to enhance practical training in scientific and digital skills at Waterside campus.
Fees and Funding
2026/27 Tuition Fees
- Full Time: £9,790
- Part Time: £1,630 per 20 credit module
- Integrated Foundation Year: £9,790 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
UON will adjust fees annually for UK (Home) Students up to the maximum allowable fee cap set by the Secretary of State for Education.
When assessing an applicant’s eligibility to pay home fees, we use the guidance provided by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) which sets out the regulations that have been decided by the UK Government Department of Education.”
- Full Time New students: £18,000
- Full Time Continuing students: £16,300
- Integrated Foundation Year: £18,000 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
Tuition fees quoted for International Students apply only to the 2026/27 academic year. These fees may increase in future years in line with Consumer Price Index (CPI) inflation to reflect rising delivery costs. Any annual increase will be capped at a maximum of 5% of the previous year’s tuition fee. Updated tuition fees will be published on the UON website at least three months before the start of the next academic year.
Additional Information
There are no additional costs for this course for students beginning their studies in September 2026. Should this change, applicants and students will be contacted by the university with details of the costs.
For information on the scholarships available to you, please see our scholarships page.
For more information about possible funding options, please visit our Fees and Funding pages.
- UK Full Time: £9,535
- UK Part Time: £1,585 per 20 credit module
- UK Integrated Foundation Year: £9,535 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
- International Full Time: £15,700
- International Integrated Foundation Year: £15,700 for the foundation year; thereafter standard fees apply
Fees quoted relate to study in the Academic Year 2025/26 only and may be subject to inflationary increases in future years. UON will adjust UK fees annually in line with Government Policy.
Staff
Alexandra Woodacre
Head of School – Life and Environmental Science
Alexander Lehner
Senior Lecturer in Human Nutrition
Lee Machado
Professor of Molecular Medicine
Jamal Nasir
Associate Professor in Human Genetics & Genomics
Declan Ryan
Associate Professor in Physical Activity & Health
Jodie Score
Senior Lecturer in Microbiology
Careers and Employability
Our Pharmacology degree combines scientific knowledge with practical laboratory experience, helping you develop the skills employers are looking for across the life sciences sector.
Through modules such as Drug Discovery and Development, Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Research Methods and your Independent Research Project, you will gain hands-on experience while developing highly valued professional skills, including:
- Experimental design and scientific investigation
- Laboratory techniques
- Data analysis and interpretation
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Evaluation of scientific evidence
- Scientific communication and presentation skills.
These transferable skills prepare you for a wide range of careers in the pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, clinical research, healthcare science, regulatory affairs and academic research.
The British Pharmacological Society website careers in pharmacology details a range of opportunities available to graduates. These include jobs in:
- Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry
- Clinical Pharmacology
- Science communication and public engagement
- Patent Law and technology transfer
- Teaching
- Lecturing and training
- Monitoring and licensing of medicines
- Regulatory affairs
- Research Management and coordination
- Managing research funding
- Finance and business
Pharmacology graduates from the University of Northampton are well-qualified to undertake a wide range of careers or training for a higher degree such as an MSc or PhD – with graduates continuing to study in medicine, dentistry and other related fields.
Connect with Industry Professionals
You will have opportunities to engage with professionals working across the healthcare, bioscience and pharmaceutical sectors, helping you gain valuable industry insights, grow your professional network and explore potential career paths.
By the time you graduate, you will have developed the scientific knowledge, laboratory expertise and career-ready skills needed to stand out in a competitive and fast-growing industry.
Facilities
Not only will you learn about how medicines work, you will put your knowledge into practice using industry-relevant facilities and cutting-edge technology.
- Train in specialist cell culture and molecular biology laboratories used in pharmaceutical and biotechnology research, developing practical skills valued by employers.
- Master laboratory techniques that support drug discovery, biomedical research and healthcare science, helping you build real-world scientific expertise.
- Complete your own independent research project, designing experiments, analysing data and presenting your findings just like professional scientists in industry and academia.
- Access the Northampton Imaging and Analysis Facility (NIAF), home to a new £800,000 world-class confocal microscope. This state-of-the-art facility brings research-led teaching directly into your learning experience, giving you access to technology used at the forefront of modern science.
By combining cutting-edge facilities with practical laboratory experience, our Pharmacology degree helps you develop the skills, confidence and research expertise needed for careers in the pharmaceutical industry, biotechnology, healthcare science and beyond.
Bioscience Laboratories
UON's Bioscience laboratories offer well-equipped, specialist facilities
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