Overview

Understanding how biological systems interact with therapeutic compounds is essential for discovering life-saving treatments and advancing global health. The BSc (Hons) Pharmacology at Queen Mary University of London delivers a comprehensive education that bridges fundamental molecular science with practical medical applications. Delivered through a joint collaboration between biological science specialists and medical faculty members, the degree benefits from world-class research facilities such as the William Harvey Research Institute. Students learn how potential medicines are identified, validated, and safely brought to market, alongside exploring the commercial realities of managing research budgets, patent protection, and product distribution. Modern laboratory spaces and interactive simulations give scholars direct exposure to advanced analytical instrumentation throughout their studies. This pathway is ideal for inquisitive individuals who wish to master the mechanics of disease treatment and drive innovation across pharmaceutical, medical, and biotechnology sectors.

What You'll Learn

• Essential biological structures, cellular mechanics, and foundational genetic principles

• Physiological systems, tissue organization, and human anatomical frameworks

• Core principles of drug targeting, receptor mechanisms, and basic pharmacology

• Biomolecules, immunology fundamentals, and cardiovascular system responses

• Assessment of pharmaceutical safety, clinical trial design, and regulatory governance

• Commercial aspects of drug development, including licensing and operational costs

• Advanced neuroscience, human genetic disorders, and membrane biochemistry

• Design of specialized therapeutics, computer-aided drug design, and translational medicine

• Independent scientific research, data analysis, and public communication of science

Learning Outcomes

Graduates will possess an in-depth understanding of drug mechanisms across biological scales, from molecular interactions to whole-body physiological responses. They will be capable of critically evaluating scientific literature, analyzing biological data, and applying experimental protocols to identify promising therapeutic targets. Students build strong technical abilities in modern laboratory environments, gaining hands-on expertise with scientific apparatus used in safety testing and drug discovery. Furthermore, learners comprehend the full progression of medical innovations, including regulatory evaluation pathways, ethical clinical testing frameworks, and industrial commercialization strategies. Through elective topics and dedicated investigative research projects, students gain the specialized insight and problem-solving techniques necessary to contribute effectively to biopharmaceutical development, clinical research, or postgraduate study.