Entry requirementsThis 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).
Academic titleMaster in Science in Pharmacology
Course descriptionIntroduction
The programme provides specialist training in the field of Pharmacology, as well as promoting skills for career and professional development. The MSc in Pharmacology is designed around a strong theoretical education in basic and advanced pharmacology, with practical experience of pharmacological and neuropharmacological techniques in the laboratory. Students will gain insight into receptor theory, molecular pharmacology, neuropharmacology and pharmacokinetics /pharmacodynamics. Physiology will also be taught alongside these elements, facilitating crossover of students qualified in non-biological disciplines to the life sciences. This will allow students to offer skills that cross boundaries, and provide an excellent foundation for studies at PhD level.
Outline of programme
The course is based around the core Physiology module which describes the systems and cellular biology of the major organs. The actions of drugs and the nature of receptors are then considered at the molecular level, with a focus on the exciting and important field of neuropharmacology. Modules include:
* Molecular Pharmacology
* Neuropharmacology
* Drug Delivery
* Research Methods
* Physiology.
The supervised research project will last for approximately 4 months, and will be at the level expected for first year PhD study. Topics might include, for example, the actions of cannabinoids in cortical synaptic plasticity.
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.