About Pharmaceutical Science - Msc in Edinburgh Napier University

This course provides expert critical and technical knowledge related to the development, analysis and production of medicines, the drug industry and regulatory affairs.

You'll study recent trends in chemical, biological and biotechnological therapeutics and evaluate the latest technologies used in the pharmaceutical industry.

You'll also gain an understanding of the processes and methods used in clinical trials and the regulation of medicines and acquire the skills and knowledge to pursue your career in pharmaceutical science.

Course details

This course provides the opportunity to acquire all the attributes necessary for a successful career in pharmaceutical science, undertaking lead research and development, or analytical management roles in the drug and healthcare industries.

You’ll acquire broad knowledge of contemporary, integrated drug discovery strategies and acquire the necessary skills to communicate effectively across the key diverse component disciplines with other professional scientists and non-specialist audiences.

You’ll develop broad knowledge of current pharmaceutical analysis and quality control strategies and will learn about GMP and GLP compliance. You’ll also gain an in-depth critical understanding of current research in biotechnology and pharmaceutical science.

There is an emphasis on developing your practical laboratory skills with various opportunities for hands-on experience in a range of current techniques and practices including specialist equipment such as HPLC, UV/Vis, and FTIR. In your final trimester you’ll undertake an independent project within a vibrant research team, allowing you to apply and further develop your technical, research and professional skills. There may be the opportunity to conduct your research project externally in a relevant organisation or pharmaceutical industry in the UK or overseas.

You‘ll also develop key skills including communication, problem solving, team work, project management, and leadership.

Careers

• Laboratory-based and research management-based product development work
• Employment in industries ranging from the big pharmaceutical companies to developing biotech companies; contract drug testing companies and service providers to the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries; hospital laboratories, NHS and local government
• Further study at PhD level in pharmaceutical and biomolecular sciences leading to an academic career.
• If you currently work in a relevant sector, this course will enhance your prospects for career progression. 

The entry requirement for this course is a Bachelor (Honours) Degree at a 2:2 or above. We look for applicants to have a background in  bio-molecular sciences in order to be eligible for this programme. 

The following acceptable degree background are: pharmacy; pharmacology, pharmaceutical or medicinal chemistry; biological or biomedical sciences; chemistry; immunology; biotechnology; genetics; virology; molecular biology; forensic science.

We may also consider degree-equivalent qualifications, as well as applicants without Honours degree equivalence but who have appropriate experience gained in the pharmaceutical or healthcare industries.

You will be eligible to apply if you have gained one of the following:

• A bachelor general / pass (3 year) degree with 60% or above
• A bachelor special / honours degree (3 year) with 55% or above
• A bachelor degree (4 year) in a professional subject with 55% or above

IELTS (Academic)

6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5

TOEFL Internet Based Test

80 overall with a minimum of 17 in listening, 18 in reading, 20 in speaking and 17 in writing

Pearson’s Test of Academic English

56 overall with a minimum of 51 in each component

Edinburgh Napier University Highlights

Edinburgh Napier University Average Tuition Fees And Other Expenses

The table below shows the estimated cost of living in UK while attending the institute. The cost is presented annually and may vary according to the needs of individuals.

Edinburgh Napier University Application process

Application fee:

• Undergraduate: 13 GBP to 24 GBP
• Graduate: Not available

Supporting documents:

• Academic transcripts and certificates
• References
• English proficiency proof
• Personal statement
• CV or resume
• Interview or portfolio (if required)
• Copy of passport/visa
• Copy of CAS (if applicable)

Academic requirements:

• Undergraduate: Overall of 60% in Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) or higher in the Intermediate (10+2) (XII Standard) or the international United Kingdom equivalent.
• Graduate: Bachelor degree or its equivalent

English Proficiency Test Scores 

For taught undergraduate and graduate programs, any one of the following test scores are required:

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, other tests that are accepted by the university include TOEFL ‘At Home’ Test (same scores as of TOEFL iBT), IELTS Indicator (same scores as of TOEFL iBT), online Edinburgh Napier English Language Courses, Duolingo, and IELTS Academic tests taken more than two years but less than four years will be considered with the use of English language in work or education during that period playing a big role.

Duolingo test and its IELTS equivalent is shown below