Drug Discovery and Development MSc

at University of Leeds

The modules of this programme cover the entire drug discovery and development pipeline, enabling you to develop an integrated and comprehensive understanding of the process.
 

Semester 1

After introducing the pharmaceutical business sector, the programme begins by providing a foundations module that is tailored to your particular background in order to ensure you have a solid foundation of any key disciplines missing from your undergraduate experience (e.g. organic chemistry, human physiology, pharmacology, ethics, molecular biology, etc.).
 

At the start of the first semester, you will also be introduced to the process of discovering and developing small molecule drugs, peptide drugs and biopharmaceuticals, while also beginning to understand the economic factors across the pharmaceutical industry and the intellectual property rights required to bring products to market. The programme will boost your commercial acumen and leadership skills through undertaking a drug commercialisation project replicating a real-world industry setting.
 

You will then focus on modern small molecule pharmaceutical discovery in more detail, gaining an in-depth understanding of the process and the underpinning science. Depending on your interests, you can then focus on topics in either medicinal chemistry or preclinical drug trials.
 

Semester 2

In your second semester, you will also get an understanding of the practical issues that arise within clinical trial design, equipping you with the knowledge of how to design a first-in-human study. You will have the opportunity to tailor your degree by choosing optional modules such as pre-clinical trials, advanced topics in chemistry, practical recombinant DNA technology, the use of animal models in preclinical development, and structure-based drug discovery.
 

Semester 3

In your final semester, you will undertake an interdisciplinary extended research project supervised by a research-active academic. Our breadth of expertise and world-class research facilities will enable you to select research approaches which are most suited to the research problem in hand. The project can be conducted within a wide range of research areas, such as medicinal chemistry, structural molecular biology and drug-related research which is fostered at the University of Leeds.

Modules

Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Drug Discovery and Development Pathways    
• Commercialising pharmaceutical products   
• Research Planning and Scientific Communication    
• Foundations of Drug Discovery    
• Modern Drug Discovery

Applicants should normally have a bachelor’s degree with at least a 2:1 or equivalent, preferably in a chemistry, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, pharmacy or pharmacology subject. Consideration will be given to applicants holding a 2:2 but who have 2:1 level marks in modules relevant to the programme.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Fees

• UK: £11,500 (total)
• International: £27,500 (total)
   

This course can either help you to progress in roles as part of pharmaceutical companies, small biotech companies, contract research organisations, government regulatory bodies, or put you in a strong position to undertake a further research degree.
 

Our dedicated Employability and Professional Development Officer will support you throughout your time with us, ensuring that you’re aware of events and opportunities, with a goal of helping you into graduate emplyment. In addition, our Masters career development programme will support you to:
 

• Explore career options and career planning.

• Understand the PhD application process and optimise PhD application.

• Learn how to use LinkedIn and other social media for effective networking and career opportunities.

• Practice interviews for both job and PhD applications.