The development of safe and effective new drugs is a challenging and rewarding field. On this course, you acquire a broad knowledge of drug discovery and development, focusing on the mechanisms of drug action at molecular level; the treatment of human diseases; and the latest cell and molecular technologies used in pharmacology. You also have the opportunity to specialise in one research area through the completion of a laboratory research project.
The Project Management units include leading and managing organisational resources; personal professional development; and developing independent research. You build your ability to implement plans, overcome obstacles and achieve change in a project, organisation or in your own performance.
Why choose this course?
Study the principles of drug design, pre-clinical evaluation, clinical trials, regulatory affairs and the application of new technologies in the drug discovery and development process
Explore the latest therapeutic concepts and principles relating to the causes, epidemiology, diagnosis and treatment of human diseases in current clinical practice
Develop a systematic understanding and critical awareness of new technologies in cell and molecular biology
Work with our expert academic team, who are actively involved in research so you are up to the minute when it comes to current and emerging developments in the field
Gain a wide range of valuable practical and transferable skills as well as the ability to apply project management skills to problems and developments in the pharmacological field
Progress into careers in drug research and development in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, the NHS and other public organisations; your project management skills are also relevant across a wide range of other sectors
Unit Information - What will I learn?
Units
Cell And Molecular Biology (BHS001-6) Compulsory
Clinical Pharmacology And Therapeutics (BHS007-6) Compulsory
Developing Independent Research (CIS132-6) Compulsory
Drug Discovery And Development (BHS005-6) Compulsory
Leading And Managing Organisational Resources (BSS064-6) Compulsory
Molecular Pharmacology (BHS006-6) Compulsory
Personal Professional Development (BSS074-6) Compulsory
Pharmacology Research Project (BHS010-6) Compulsory
Project Management (BSS060-6) Compulsory
How will I be assessed?
The assessment philosophy of the MSc Pharmacology with Project Management Award conforms to the recommendations of the aspects of relevant QAA Benchmarks and Masters level descriptors. The methods used for the assessment of students achievements will correspond with the knowledge, abilities and skills that are to be developed through degree programme. Both formative and summative modes of assessment will be used. Summative assessments will be undertaken in all units of the course to check that you have met (or are working towards meeting) the threshold standards expected of all students. Also, there will be a formative assessment in the beginning of semesters 1 and 2 to help you understand the academic writing and online submission process along with the assessment marking criterion. Evidence on which assessment of students achievement is based will include: formal written examinations; summative practical assessments; laboratory and other written Academics; problem-solving exercises; oral presentations; individual planning, conduct and Academicing of project work; and essay assignments. Evidence on which assessment of students' achievement is based may include: literature surveys and evaluations; collaborative practicals; individual research project preparation and displays of 'posters' Academicing project work; personal portfolios of learning achieved; computer-based assessments; and self and peer assessment. The course assessment strategy is compliant with the University of Bedfordshires Quality Assurance Regulations. The commitment to practical skills and the ability to communicate and interpret data through scientific Developing Independent Research is emphasised at all units of the programme. As such, practical (laboratory) activities form a significant proportion of students assessment. Practical work will be assessed through written practical activities, poster oral presentations and reflective laboratory diaries. Assessment throughout the units, most notably in the research project, will call upon abstract writing and journal review skills to promote critical thinking and integration of knowledge across the course units. The importance of oral communication skills is also acknowledged, as some of the units require students to undertake oral presentations as a part of the unit assessments. Throughout the course formative feedback will be provided in support of various tasks that include practical work in all four units, mini-projects, literature reviews, case studies and presentation prior to final summative assessments. Students capability in carrying out research will be assessed through a research proposal, research project activities and presentations. Group work, including laboratory practical sessions, will help students to develop transferable skills such as taking initiative, communication, team working and decision making. Ability in oral communication will be assessed through presentations, including a poster presentation.
