Program start date | Application deadline |
2024-09-01 | - |
Program Overview
The Pharmaceutical Bioscience MSci (Hons) at Ulster University is a four-year integrated master's degree that combines a strong foundation in chemistry with a focus on the development and manufacturing of medicines. The program emphasizes practical skills development, research opportunities, and industry connections, preparing graduates for careers in the global biopharmaceutical industry. With a 100% employment or further education rate, this program provides students with the knowledge and experience necessary to succeed in the field.
Program Outline
Degree Overview
The Pharmaceutical Bioscience MSci (Hons) is an integrated master's degree designed to prepare students for careers in the global biopharmaceutical industry. It combines a strong foundation in chemistry with a focus on the development and manufacturing of medicines. The course culminates in a significant research project and a work placement in the final year, providing students with hands-on experience in the industry.
Objectives:
- To provide an academically challenging and vocationally relevant education in pharmaceutical bioscience.
- To develop the skills necessary for undertaking research in the pharmaceutical/biomedical sciences industry.
- The program integrates practical elements into each module, along with research project opportunities in the award-winning Biomedical Sciences Research Institute (BMSRI) at Ulster University.
- Students will gain experience in a variety of laboratory techniques, including analytical chemistry, formulation development, and quality control.
- The program has been designed in consultation with leading biopharmaceutical companies, ensuring that graduates are equipped with the skills and knowledge required by the industry.
Outline
Program Content:
- Chemistry
- Biochemistry
- Microbiology
- Pharmacology
- Pharmaceutical formulation
- Quality control
Structure:
- Full-time, four-year program
- Students study 10 and 20-credit modules in each of the first three years.
- The final year consists of a 60-credit research project and four 15-credit distance learning modules.
- Each 20-credit module typically requires 200 hours of study, including lectures, tutorials, practicals, and independent study.
Course Schedule:
- September 2024 start date
Modules:
- Year 1:
- Professional Skills for Pharmaceutical Biosciences
- Pharmaceutical Biosciences 1
- Pharmaceutical Biosciences 2
- Year 2:
- Biotechnology
- Pharmacology, Genetics and Microbiology
- Haematology and transfusion science
- Professional Practice
- Pharmaceutical Analysis
- Physical Pharmacy
- Methodologies in Pharmaceutical Biosciences Research
- Year 3:
- Natural Products
- Analytical Methodology
- Pharmaceutical Technology
- Research Project
- Biomolecular therapeutics and immunology for pharmaceutical biosciences
- Quality Processes and Control
- Year 4:
- Introduction to Personalised Medicine & Pharmacogenomics
- Work Based Learning
- Advanced Pharmaceutical Chemistry
- Advances in Medical Biotechnology and Healthcare Delivery (optional)
- Veterinary Pharmacy (optional)
- Advanced pharmaceutical nanotechnology (optional)
Assessment
Assessment Methods:
- Coursework
- Examinations
- Research project
Assessment Criteria:
- Knowledge and understanding of pharmaceutical science and related disciplines
- Practical skills
- Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Communication and teamwork skills
- Research skills
Teaching
Teaching Methods:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Seminars
- Online learning materials
- Practical laboratory sessions
- Research projects
Faculty:
- Experienced academics with expertise in pharmaceutical science, bioscience, and related disciplines. Many faculty members are actively involved in research and have strong links with industry.
- The program director is Professor [name], a leading expert in pharmaceutical formulation.
Unique Approach:
- Strong emphasis on practical skills development
- Integrated research project and work placement opportunities
- Close links with leading biopharmaceutical companies
- State-of-the-art facilities, including a 600 MHz NMR spectrometer, mass spectrometers, and an award-winning bio-imaging suite.
Careers
Career Opportunities:
- Analytical Scientist
- Biopharmaceutical Scientist
- Pharmaceutical Scientist
- Research and Development Scientist
Career Outcomes:
- Graduates are well-prepared for careers in the biopharmaceutical industry, with many taking up positions in research, development, and production.
- The program also provides a strong foundation for further study, such as a PhD.
- 100% of graduates are either in professional employment or have gone on to further education.
Other
Graduate Employers:
- Biopharmaceutical Industry
- Pharmaceutical Industry
Scholarships:
- Top student in each year receives a prize.
Additional Costs:
- Personal protective equipment
- Travel costs
- Vaccinations (may be required for certain placements)
- Graduation ceremonies
- Examination resits
- Library fines
Conclusion
The Pharmaceutical Bioscience MSci (Hons) at Ulster University is a comprehensive and rigorous program that provides students with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary for a successful career in the global biopharmaceutical industry. The program's strong academic foundation, extensive practical experience, and industry connections make it an excellent choice for students who are passionate about science and who want to make a difference in the world.
Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and EU Settlement Status Fees
£4,750.00
England, Scotland, Wales and the Islands Fees
£9,250.00
International Fees
£16,320.00
Entry Requirements:
A level:
Grades BBBA.
Essential Subjects:
- Chemistry (required)
- One subject from Biology, Mathematics, Physics, IT, Digital Technology, Environmental Technology, Applied Science, or Life and Health Sciences.
Applied General Qualifications:
- Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Applied Science (RQF) (601/7437/7) - Award profile of DDM.
- The following units are essential and must be passed with Distinction: Principles and Applications of Science I, Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques, Principles and Applications of Science II, Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Applications of Organic Chemistry, and Industrial Chemical Reactions.
- Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Applied Science (RQF) (601/7435/3) - Award profile of DM to include Distinctions in the units listed above plus one A Level grade B in any subject or Award profile DM plus A Level Chemistry grade B.
- OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technical Diploma in Applied Science (RQF) (601/7461/4) - Award profile of DM plus A Level Chemistry grade B.
- ILC Course Specific Subject requirements:
- H3 in Chemistry and one subject from Biology, Maths, Physics, IT, or Agricultural Science.
Scottish Highers:
- Grades BBBCC to include Chemistry and one other science subject from Physics, Maths, Biology, or IT.
- English & Maths required at Standard Grade 1, 2, or 3.
Scottish Advanced Highers:
- Grades CCC to include Chemistry and 1 other science subject from Physics, Maths, Biology, or IT.
- English & Maths required at Standard Grade 1, 2, or 3.
International Baccalaureate:
- Overall profile minimum: 26 points including 13 points at Higher Level to include Chemistry and one subject from Biology, Physics, Maths, or IT.
Access to Higher Education (HE):
- Only science-based Access courses are acceptable.
- Specific modules will be required and must include Chemistry.
- Overall profile of 65%, to include 65% in level 3 modules (120 credit Access Course) (NI Access Course).
- Overall profile of 24 credits at distinction and 21 credits at merit (60 credit Access Course) (GB Access Course).
- If GCSE Mathematics at grade C has not been obtained, then a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 40% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma is required.
- Higher Certificate in Science, Pharmacy Technician with an overall mark of 60% including 60% in each science module.
- Higher Education Diploma, Pharmacy Technician with an overall mark of 65% including 65% in each science module.
GCSE:
- For full-time study, you must satisfy the General Entrance Requirements for admission to a first degree course and hold a GCSE pass at Grade C/4 or above in English Language and Mathematics. Chemistry grade C or Double Award Science grade CC or above also required.
English Language Requirements:
- Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5.
- Ulster recognizes several other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.
Additional Entry Requirements:
- Acceptable alternative qualifications include:
- HND Applied Science (Chemistry) with an overall Merit to include 60 level 5 credits at Distinction/units may be specified.
- HNC Applied Science (Chemistry) with an overall Distinction to include 90 level 4 credits at Distinction/units may be specified.
- You may also meet the course entry requirements with combinations of different qualifications to the same standard as recognized by the University, provided the course subject requirements are met.
Exemptions and transferability:
- These are made on a case-by-case basis in agreement with the Course Director. Applicants who do not meet the published academic requirements and who are seeking entry through the Accreditation of Prior Learning must have the ability to demonstrate a core set of competencies relevant to the course.