Overview

This preparatory pathway establishes the essential chemical, biological, and analytical principles required for degree-level studies in drug development and discovery. Delivered at Queen's University Belfast, the curriculum equips students with foundational laboratory techniques and scientific literacy while building academic confidence. Learners establish the necessary grounding in core sciences to transition smoothly into advanced pharmaceutical research disciplines.

What You'll Learn

• Core concepts in organic and physical chemistry, chemical reactions, and molecular structures

• Principles of cell biology, human physiology, and basic biochemical processes

• Introductory laboratory safety protocols, chemical handling, and analytical instrumentation skills

• Fundamental mathematical methods, scientific data analysis, and study skills for higher education

Learning Outcomes

This course focuses on applying fundamental chemical and biological theories to solve introductory pharmaceutical problems. Students will develop the skills needed to carry out basic laboratory procedures safely while recording experimental observations accurately and systematically. The course also emphasizes the analysis of basic scientific datasets using appropriate mathematical and statistical techniques. In addition, students will learn to evaluate scientific literature critically and communicate technical findings clearly through effective academic writing.