Bachelor of Science (Honours) - Pharmacology (B210)

The BSc (Hons) Pharmacology at the University of West London equips students with a thorough understanding of the scientific basis of pharmacology in the first year, including biochemistry, genetics and immunology.

Students will learn practical laboratory skills while gaining an overall picture of the human organism and its essential functions. Subjects covered include microbiology, the structural features of all cells that make up living systems, fundamental genetic mechanisms essential for the evolution of life and function, and the genetics and molecular biology underpinning human biology and health.

In the second year, modules build on the action of drugs on their target sites and the action of the body on drugs once administered. Students will become familiar with common laboratory techniques and practical methods used in pharmacology. This includes practical sessions that develop lab-based techniques, good laboratory practice for diagnosing diseases, and health and safety requirements. Students will also gain further insight into scientific methods, including writing laboratory reports, essays and assignments, undertaking data interpretation exercises, critically analysing cases, and developing communication skills through oral presentations.

In the final year, students will independently pursue a research project, allowing them to explore a topic of interest, such as drugs used to prevent cancer or infectious diseases, or analgesics and antidepressants that act on the peripheral nerves and the brain. This provides insight into potential career pathways, including medical research or roles within pharmaceutical companies.