What you will study
The aim of the programme is to teach students how medicinal chemistry is used to discover small molecule therapeutics or biologics. Also, it will arm students with critical and technical knowledge of the analysis, development and design of medicines plus related disciplines (such as drug screening and biomarkers). Students will study and explore recent trends in chemical and biological therapeutics and cutting-edge technologies used within the pharmaceutical industry.
Please note: this is an indicative list of modules and is not intended as a definitive list.
For a student to go on placement they are required to pass every module first time with no reassessments. It is the responsibility of
individual students to find a suitable paid placement. Students will be supported by our dedicated placement team in securing this opportunity.
Medicinal Chemistry
The MSc in Medicinal Chemistry is made up of four taught modules each worth 30 credits and a research project worth 60 credits (180 credits total). All students will be provided with the University regulations. Full details of each module will be provided in module descriptors and on module pages within Canvas.
Core modules
Statistics and Quality Systems
30 credits
The module introduces students to the role of statistics and quality systems in modern analytical science. It demonstrates how a thorough understanding of statistical concepts, the analytical process and the quality systems and quality management paradigms collectively enable the consistent and reliable interpretation of analytical chemical data to support the economic requirements of a business organisation.
Design, Discovery and Development of Pharmaceuticals
30 credits
The module details the synthetic chemistry behind the development of drug molecules and evaluates quantitatively the structure activity effects from pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic perspectives. Advanced experimental techniques in spectroscopy and compound separation will be discussed in the context of drug discovery and development. The module also outlines the process for intellectual property protection and exploitation.
Medicinal Chemistry in the Pharmaceutical Industry
30 credits
The module is intended to allow students to gain knowledge and understanding of how medicinal chemistry is used to discover small molecule therapeutics or biologics. Topics such as computational chemistry, biomarkers and medical imaging also feature in the module. In addition, other study units relevant to the pharmaceutical industry are introduced; for example pharmacodynamics and assay screening techniques.
On successful completion of this module, you will be able to:
- Analyse key aspects of the development of medicines by studying cutting edge developments in medicinal chemistry.
- Apply the tools studied in this module to solve drug discovery problems.
Manufacture and Clinical Trials of Medicines
30 credits
This module introduces the student to the different phases and types of clinical trials and the associated legal, regulatory and ethical issues. This includes statistical data analyses and how to manage and review clinical trial data in relation to evidence-based medicine. The technology and application of the manufacture of various medicine formulations are discussed and the place of biotechnological products introduced. The module also covers elements of medicines regulation with particular reference to the UK and European Union. Regulations are dealt with both within a general framework and specific areas including manufacturing, dealing with specialist products, regulation in clinical use, and licensing.
Project
60 credits
This module involves a research- or industry-based in-depth research project. You will develop your ability to critically evaluate your own work as well as the work of others, utilising analytical and laboratory skills.
On successful completion of the module, you will be able to:
- Prepare a realistic and coherent project proposal, formulate aims and objectives and plan your own time to achieve stated objectives.
- Critically evaluate the current literature.
- Carry out appropriate experiments in a safe manner (applying COSHH) and generate reliable data suitably analysed and apply appropriate statistical tests.
- Communicate the results of the project in a coherent report and in oral and visual manner.
Optional modules
Professional Placement
120 credits
The Professional Placement module is a core module for those students following a masters programme that incorporates an extended professional placement. It provides students with the opportunity to apply their knowledge and skills in an appropriate working environment, and develops and enhances key employability and subject specific skills in their chosen discipline. Students may wish to use the placement experience as a platform for the major project or future career.
It is the responsibility of individual students to find and secure a suitable placement opportunity; this should not normally involve more than two placements which must be completed over a minimum period of 10 months and within a maximum of 12 months. The placement must be approved by the Course Leader, prior to commencement to ensure its suitability. Students seeking placements will have access to the standard placement preparation activities offered by Student Engagement and Enhancement (SEE) group.
