Entry requirements
This course is open to suitably qualified international and UK-based graduates (a good UK Hons Degree in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Science, Pharmacology, Physiology, Physical Science, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Genetics, Materials Science, Medicine or a related field from a recognised university; (minimum of a lower second class or an oversees degree recognised by Aston University, plus two references). Students whose first language is not English must demonstrate a satisfactory command of written and spoken English before enrolment on the programme (demonstrated by an IELTS score of 6.5 or higher overall, but with no score below 6.0).
Course description
Introduction
This MSc programme is designed to provide specialist training and practical experience to graduates who are interested in following a career in the pharmaceutical industry, research institutes or related pharmaceutical authorities. This course is also an excellent foundation for graduates considering research degree programmes in the pharmaceutical sciences.
The main goal of this course is to offer a robust academic base for pharmacists, chemists and related life-sciences graduates who are keen to further develop their skill and knowledge in the pharmaceutical sciences field. This preparation will endow graduates with the ability to provide effective pharmaceutical formulation strategies for current and future drug therapies and medicinal products.
Outline of programme
The course is based around a core of compulsory modules and combined with a research project undertaken in our postgraduate research laboratories. The research project will last approximately four months and students will work under the supervision of recognised experts within their given research field. The project provides an opportunity to undertake a detailed investigation and develop practical expertise in one of a range of specialist projects
within the Pharmaceutical Sciences arena. Aston University also offers strong collaborative links with various pharmaceutical companies and there may be the opportunity to undertake projects in collaboration with these companies.
The taught modular programme will consider various aspects of pharmaceutical sciences e.g.the biology of disease states, pharmaceutical analytical analysis, pharmaceutical formulation, research methods and exploiting your research.
Assessment
The course is assessed by a mixture of coursework, examinations, practical work, oral and written presentations. The research project module will be assessed on the basis of a submitted project report and an oral defence of a poster.
