Pharmaceutical Sciences - BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Sciences at TUS is a unique program that provides students with the essential knowledge and skills for employment in the pharmaceutical sector. The program covers both chemical-based and biotech-based therapeutics, with a focus on minimizing toxicity, optimizing efficacy, and developing practical skills. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in pharmaceutical manufacturing, analytical services, technical services, and regulatory affairs.

Program Outline

Pharmaceutical Sciences – BSc (Hons) - TUS

Degree Overview:

This BSc (Hons) in Pharmaceutical Sciences is a unique, internationally accredited program by the Academy of Pharmaceutical Sciences (APS) and recognized for professional graduate admission to the Institute of Chemistry of Ireland (GradICI). It equips students with the essential knowledge and skills required for employment in the pharmaceutical sector. The program focuses on:

• Multidisciplinary approach: Covering both chemical-based and next-generation biotech-based therapeutics and their formulation into safe and effective medicines.
• Minimizing toxicity and optimizing efficacy: Exploring methods and techniques to enhance therapeutic efficacy, maximize product yield, and address challenges related to drug absorption, distribution, inactivation, and elimination.
• Next-generation technologies: Investigating the suitability of technologies like nano-encapsulation and stimuli-sensitive polymers for beneficial drug delivery.
• Structure-property relationships: Exploring the relationships between the structure of drugs and pharmaceutical materials and their properties.
• Developing practical skills: Utilizing sophisticated apparatus and instrumentation to equip graduates with a range of career options in a dynamic job market.
• Cultivating adaptability and interpersonal skills: Fostering effective communication and collaboration with colleagues from diverse disciplines.
• Real-world experience: Incorporating a guided external placement during semester two of Year 3, providing students with transformative, industry-relevant experience.
• Research opportunities: Offering Year 4 students the chance to participate in the Science Undergraduate Research Experience (SURE) Network's annual regional conferences.
• Meeting industry demands: Designed to meet the growing need for skilled scientists in the pharmaceutical industry, particularly in the Midlands Region, a hub for pharma and healthcare companies.

Outline:

The program spans four years and is structured as follows:

Year 1:

• Semester 1:
• Biology (Year-Long)
• Mathematics for Scientists (Year-Long)
• Physics for Chemical and Life Sciences (Year-Long)
• Chemistry (Year-Long)
• Laboratory Practice: Safety Science & Laboratory Competencies
• Transferable Skills
• Semester 2:
• Biology (Year-Long)
• Mathematics for Scientists (Year-Long)
• Physics for Chemical and Life Sciences (Year-Long)
• Chemistry (Year-Long)
• Current Scientific Issues through Team-Based Learning

Year 2:

• Semester 1:
• Mathematics and Statistics for Life and Physical Sciences 2.1
• Organic Chemistry
• Physical Pharmaceutics
• Pharmaceutical Microbiology
• Biochemistry for Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Analytical Techniques 1
• Semester 2:
• Mathematics and Statistics for Life and Physical Sciences 2.2
• Inorganic Chemistry
• Proteins and Nucleic Acids: Chemistry, Utility and Analysis
• Dosage Form Design
• Synthetic Organic Chemistry
• Analytical Techniques 2

Year 3:

• Semester 1:
• Pharmaceutical Separations
• Pharmaceutical Synthesis
• Pharmaceutical Spectroscopy
• Coordination and Bioinorganic Chemistry
• Pharmaceutical Analytical Chemistry
• Pharmaceutical Biotechnology
• Semester 2:
• Work Placement
• Industry Relevant Project
• Bioethics
• Clinical Trials
• Environmental Science and Sustainability

Year 4:

• Semester 1:
• Bio-analytical Techniques in Therapeutics
• Pharmaceutical Experimental Design and Validation
• Drug Discovery and Product Development
• Pharmaceutical Materials
• Research Methods
• Semester 2:
• Metals in Medicine
• Pharmaceutical Technology
• Emerging Trends in Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Pharmacology
• Project

Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Continuous assessment: This includes assignments, quizzes, and laboratory reports.
• Project: The final year project requires students to conduct independent research and present their findings in a thesis, oral presentation, or poster.
• Work Placement: Students are assessed on their performance during their work placement, which includes a reflective diary and presentation of their work.

Teaching:

The program employs a range of teaching methods, including:

• Lectures: These provide students with a foundational understanding of the subject matter.
• Laboratory practicals: Hands-on laboratory sessions allow students to apply theoretical knowledge and develop practical skills.
• Workshops: These provide students with opportunities to engage in interactive learning activities and develop specific skills.
• Team-based learning: This encourages collaboration and problem-solving among students.
• Guest lectures: Industry experts share their knowledge and insights with students, providing real-world perspectives.
The faculty comprises experienced lecturers with both teaching expertise and industry experience. Many faculty members have worked in the pharmaceutical industry and maintain active contacts in the field.

Careers:

Graduates of this program are well-prepared for a variety of rewarding careers in the pharmaceutical and related industries, including:

• Pharmaceutical manufacturing: Roles in API/biologic drugs plants or finished drug product manufacturing facilities.
• Analytical services: Positions in analytical services, diagnostics’ manufacture, and polymer characterisation.
• Technical services: Highly skilled technical roles.
• Regulatory affairs: Positions in regulatory affairs, supporting marketing authorisation applications.

Other:

• The program is designed to support a strong local cluster of drug substance, drug product, diagnostic reagent, and medical device manufacturing in the Midlands Region.
• Lecturers regularly consult with companies to ensure the currency of the course provision.
• The program is designed to give students the knowledge and competence to enter industry or proceed to further postgraduate education.
• Graduates are eligible for Level 9 and 10 postgraduate programs within TUS, such as the MSc/Postgraduate Diploma in Pharmaceutical and Chemical Analysis or the MSc/Postgraduate Diploma in Biopharmaceutical Technology.