BSc Pharmacology with Foundation

Compulsory modules

Foundation Biology

Explore the life cycle of cells and the chemical reactions that give them energy and allow them to replicate. You’ll also study the biology of the human body and about natural selection and genetics. Through practical classes, you’ll familiarise yourself with laboratory work, as well as handling and interpreting data.

Mathematics Foundation

Gain a fundamental understanding of the role of basic mathematics in biological and chemical sciences.

Chemistry

Discover the chemical principles that provide the foundations for many scientific disciplines. Learn how to predict the properties of molecules from their structures and gain an understanding of how and why reactions happen. 

Foundation in Academic Skills

Develop academic skills essential for success both on the Foundation Year and as an undergraduate.

These are the modules we currently offer for 2024/25 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they're informed by the latest teaching and research methods.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Compulsory modules

Fundamentals of Cell Biology

Expand your knowledge of human physiology to understand the normal function of the human body. You’ll cover the structure of mammalian cells and cellular functions which are often targeted therapeutically and biochemical pathways that underpin these processes.

Fundamentals of Pharmaceutical Science

Understand how medicines are sourced, developed, and manufactured. You’ll discover how quality is assured for patient safety and consider the use of natural and synthetic products.

Principles of Drug Action

Discover the effects of drugs on the human body and how to effectively explain drug action to different audiences. You'll explore how drugs are discovered, designed, developed, and delivered. 

Mathematics and Statistics for Pharmacology

Gain an overview of basic mathematical and statistical concepts in pharmacology, which will ensure that you have the skills to succeed in this field of study.

Introduction to Microbiology, Immunology and Physiology

Explore how organs work to support life. You will be introduced to the basics of the anatomy of some of the major systems of the human body, and to the physiological processes taking part within and between them.

Key Skills for Pharmacology

Through simulated and hands-on experiments, you’ll develop expert knowledge of core laboratory and generic study skills that will help you to conduct pharmacological research and solve problems. 

Placement Support 1

To prepare you for your placement, you’ll be provided with mentoring, feedback, and advice on the application process, along with employment related skills such as CV writing and peer support. 

These are the modules we currently offer for 2024/25 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they're informed by the latest teaching and research methods.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Compulsory modules

Molecular Drug Targets

Apply pharmacology and physiological systems from molecule to patient. This will focus on the different classes of molecular drug targets in treating renal, respiratory, and cardiovascular diseases.

Drug Design and Delivery

Consider how chemical structure impacts activity and stability, using quantitative methods to collect, process, analyse, and present research findings. This involves using in vivo, ex-vivo and in vitro techniques via simulated and hands-on experimentation. 

Haematology and Immunology

Discover the fundamental principles and concepts that underpin haematology and immunology. You’ll explore topics such as the production, structure and function of blood cells, the techniques used within hospital haematology laboratories to investigate and diagnose disease, the main forms of immunopathology, and how vaccines are produced.

Medicines in Healthcare

Understand how science is used to create and administer medicines in the gastrointestinal tract. Using an integrated learning approach, you’ll research specific health conditions and consider holistic care requirements for a patient.

Integrated Anatomy and Physiology

This module will further explore the complex and fascinating systems of the human body, focusing on the endocrine system, skin, reproduction, ear, nose, and throat. We will use a systems-based approach where you will explore the functional requirements that drive the structure of the whole body and its functional capabilities. We will emphasise on the clinical relevance of the topics covered and their importance in understanding and diagnosing various medical conditions.

Mathematical Modelling for Pharmacology

You’ll use mathematical and statistical approaches to gain understanding of the modelling process. Learning how to interrogate data, you’ll draw inferences from data and formulate, solve, and investigate systems using mechanistic modelling. 

Placement Support 2

Gain insight on your career direction with mentoring and feedback on the application process for placement. This will increase your knowledge and confidence of psychometric and video testing, interview, and assessment centre techniques. 

These are the modules we currently offer for 2024/25 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they're informed by the latest teaching and research methods.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.

Compulsory modules

Research Project

Under the direction of an academic supervisor, you’ll lead a laboratory-based research project. This original research will form the basis of a project write-up, poster session and final project viva.

Clinical and Societal Impact of Pharmacology

Advance your knowledge of drug action in various contexts, from treating cancer and pain to the misuse of ‘lifestyle’ drugs. You’ll consider healthcare guidelines for medicines, adverse effects on embryonic development, and ethical principles of research. 

Optional modules

Experimental Approaches to Neuroscience

Participate in a lab-based experiment on the measurement of electrical activity in brain slices, collecting data to prepare a formative report. This will provide you with knowledge of brain function and drug-related alterations.

Innovation and Product Development

Apply science and engineering principles to innovation and product development. You’ll understand how the innovation process works and identify critical business development challenges that need to be addressed for science to benefit society.

These are the modules we currently offer for 2024/25 entry. They may be subject to change as we regularly review our module offerings to ensure they're informed by the latest teaching and research methods.

Please note that the University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them.

You can also register your details with us to receive information about your course of interest and study and life at the University of Reading.