Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

Medicinal and pharmaceutical chemists play a crucial role in improving global health, applying chemical principles to design, test and refine the drugs that underpin modern medicine. Our BSc (Hons) Medicinal and Pharmaceutical Chemistry degree is designed for those who want to learn and understand how new medicines are created - from the chemistry behind drug molecules to the processes that turn them into safe, effective treatments. You’ll build a strong foundation in core chemistry while developing specialist skills in areas such as drug design, drug efficacy, safety testing and pharmaceutical quality control, whilst ensuring you leave with the specialist knowledge you’ll need to pursue a future in the pharmaceutical sector.  

Designed with the pharmaceutical industry in mind, this course provides a focus on the full drug discovery pipeline. You’ll learn in modern laboratories using industry‑standard equipment, developing practical and analytical strengths used widely in pharmaceutical and biotechnology work. Our curriculum is also shaped by employer needs, ensuring you graduate with the scientific understanding and technical capabilities that industry demands.

Further on, the course provides the opportunity to spend an additional year studying abroad or working on a placement in industry, expanding your horizons and gaining valuable hands-on experience.  

This course is also available with a foundation year. 

FEATURES AND BENEFITS

* Shaped by professional standards: This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Chemistry, the UK's leading professional body for chemical scientists, which can support your pathway towards professional recognition, strengthen your CV, and help you stand out to employers.

* Professional study environment: Study in our £115m Dalton building, designed for collaboration, innovation and world-class learning and research, giving you access to the same technologies used across chemical and pharmaceutical research

* Immersive learning: Our teaching is supported by technological innovations including videos, specialist software and VR simulations to help you to prepare for practicals in advance – building your confidence in using lab equipment and allowing you to practice from home.

* Graduate industry ready: We have embedded career preparation activities into each year of your course to help you explore options, gain key employability skills, and build your confidence to apply for work experience and your future graduate career.

* Taught by leading researchers: Our research activities directly inform our teaching. These focus on alleviating global problems to create a sustainable and healthy future. Research areas include hydrogen fuel cells, biosensors, drug discovery, green chemistry and more.

* Expand your horizons: You can take the four-year route, spending a year studying overseas in Europe, North America or Australia, or boost  your career prospects with a 9-12 month placement gaining valuable experience.