University of Bristol United Kingdom

MSci Pharmacology

Integrated Masters with deeper specialization and research focus
Taught in English
Duration 4 Years
Mode On Campus
Level Undergraduate
Degree Bachelors Degree
Closing soon September 2026

Course Overview

Embark on the MSci Pharmacology at the University of Bristol, a comprehensive undergraduate degree designed for those fascinated by how medicines work and their impact on human health. You will delve into the intricate mechanisms of drug action, exploring how pharmacological interventions can treat diseases ranging from neurological disorders to cardiovascular conditions. This programme is ideal for aspiring scientists who are keen to understand the molecular basis of disease and develop innovative therapeutic strategies, preparing you for a dynamic career in pharmaceutical research and development.

This full-time, on-campus MSci Pharmacology degree spans four years, offering an immersive learning experience. You will build a strong foundation in core pharmacology and physiology, progressively engaging with advanced topics in molecular pharmacology and receptor signalling through lectures, practical laboratory sessions, and critical analysis of scientific literature. In your final year, you will undertake an extended research project, gaining hands-on experience with advanced techniques and contributing to novel scientific discoveries. You will graduate with a deep understanding of drug discovery and development, ready for roles in the pharmaceutical industry, academia, or further postgraduate study.

Course Curriculum & Details

Detailed information for serious evaluators

Program Overview

This MSci Pharmacology program provides a comprehensive foundation in the study of drugs and their effects on biological systems. Across the years, students will engage with core pharmacology and physiology modules, complemented by optional units in areas such as biochemistry, neuroscience, and psychology. The curriculum progresses to specialized topics including the pharmacology of the nervous and body systems, advanced research techniques, and culminates in a significant research project and in-depth study of molecular pharmacology and drug therapies.

1 Year 1 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Pharmacology 1A Mandatory
Pharmacology 1B Mandatory
Physiology 1A Mandatory
Physiology 1B Mandatory
Biochemistry: Cellular Composition Optional
Normal and Tumour Cells Optional
Introduction to Social and Developmental Psychology Optional
Biochemistry: Cellular Processes Optional
Disease and Defence Optional
Introduction to Cognitive and Biological Psychology Optional
Sustainable Development Optional
City Futures: Migration, Citizenship, and Planetary Change Optional
Creative Futures: Tools for Changing the World Optional
Understanding global problems using data: inequality, climate change and the economy Optional
Decolonise the Future! Optional
Science of Happiness Optional
Introduction to Neuroscience Optional
Functional Neuroanatomy Optional

2 Year 2 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Pharmacology of the Nervous System Mandatory
Pharmacology of Body Systems Mandatory
Techniques in Pharmacology Mandatory
Skills for Life (Sciences) Mandatory
Gene expression and rearrangement Optional
Infection and Immunity Optional
Neurophysiology Optional
Recombinant DNA Technology Optional
Cellular and Molecular Pathology Optional
Integrative Physiology Optional
Big Ideas in Science Optional
Any other 20 credit point UWLP (University-Wide Language Programme) unit. Please see http://www.bristol.ac.uk/sml/study/uwlp/ for more details. Optional

3 Year 3 (2025/26 entry cohort)

Concepts and Skills Mandatory
Research Project Mandatory
Receptor signalling and non-drug therapies Mandatory
Molecular Pharmacology Mandatory
Drugs in the Nervous System Optional
Synaptic plasticity Optional
Neurological and Psychiatric disorders Optional
Neuroscience of Pain Optional
New Horizons in Medicine Optional
Exercise Physiology in Health and Disease Optional
Neural Basis of Behaviour Optional

Cost & Affordability

A clear picture of what this course will cost you

Program Costs

First Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 45,146.00
Second Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 45,146.00
Third Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 45,146.00
Fourth Year Fee Tuition fee
USD 45,146.00
Total Program Cost Estimated total tuition
USD 180,587.00

Currency note: Program costs shown in USD based on the available tuition breakdown.

Living Costs

Accommodation
USD 1,285.00 - USD 2,164.00
Food & Groceries USD 1,048.00 - USD 1,402.00
Transport USD 355.00 - USD 693.00
Utilities & Bills USD 10,471.00 - USD 13,967.00
Estimated Total USD 11,874.00 - USD 16,062.00

Living cost estimates are based on Clifton campus.

Outcomes & Employability

What happens after you graduate

95%
Graduate Employment Rate Within 6 to 12 months of graduation

Common Graduate Roles

Clinical & Medical ServicesClinical Trials & DevelopmentHealthcare Administration & ManagementMedical Devices & DiagnosticsMedical Research & Clinical TrialsPharmaceutical ManufacturingPharmacovigilance & Drug SafetyPublic Health & EpidemiologyQuality Assurance & ControlRegulatory Affairs & Compliance

Top Employers Hiring for this course

AstraZeneca

BootsUK

GSK

NHS

NHS Blood Transplant

North Bristol NHS Trust

Novartis

University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust

Why Study MSci Pharmacology at University of Bristol

What makes this program stand out

September 2026 Closing soon

Next intake is in September 2026

Life at University of Bristol in United Kingdom

What daily life looks like for international students

Language

English

Primary language everywhere

Climate

Mild & Rainy

10-20°C average, pack layers

Safety (Numbeo Safety Index)

Very Safe

Exeter is one of UK's safest cities

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MSci Pharmacology at University of Bristol

Can I work while studying?

Degree students in the UK can work up to 20 hours per week during term time and full-time during breaks. No separate work permit is needed.

What English language score do I need for this course?

International students must meet specific English test requirements. For example, a TOEFL overall score of 88 or an IELTS overall score of 6.5 is required.

What jobs can I get after studying this course?

Graduates can pursue careers as Pharmacologists, Research Scientists, Clinical Researchers, or Drug Safety Associates.

What will I actually study in this course?

The MSci Pharmacology degree spans four years, featuring an extensive research project in the final year. It covers core topics such as drug action and the pharmacology of the nervous and cardiovascular systems.

When can I start — what are the intake months?

The MSci Pharmacology degree has an intake in September each year. Be sure to apply in advance to secure your spot.
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