MSc in Pharmacology

at University of Oxford

The course is taught over one year from October to September, comprising three 10-week terms and a fourth summer term.

The first term covers core material using lectures, tutorials and practical work, and aims to ensure that all students achieve the core knowledge of the principles and practice of pharmacology. The subjects covered include cell and receptor pharmacology, tissue and organ pharmacology, and pharmacology of the nervous system. At the end of the term, students sit a computer-based qualifying exam; passing this exam allows them to continue the course.

At the start of the second term, students follow a short course in quantitative pharmacology, covering aspects of receptor pharmacology and pharmacokinetics.

During the following weeks, students attend a series of Advanced Pharmacology lectures addressing topics which represent the research expertise of academic staff in the department. The lectures are organised into five themes or modules
 

• Cell Signalling
• Cardiovascular Pharmacology
• Neuropharmacology I: Neurodegeneration
• Neuropharmacology II: Psychopharmacology
• Drug Discovery

Lectures are combined with weekly laboratory sessions, discussion forums, journal clubs and small group tutorials to promote critical analysis of primary research literature.

Students are expected to spend 15 hours per week on independent reading throughout the first and second terms.

The third term is mainly taken up by a hypothesis-driven research project which is expected to involve four months of experimental work, extending throughout the term and into the long vacation term.

Proven and potential academic excellence

Degree-level qualifications

As a minimum, applicants should hold or be predicted to achieve the following UK qualifications or their equivalent:
 

• a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours in a biological or chemical science, but applications from high-calibre candidates with mathematical and physical science backgrounds may be considered.

However, entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or the equivalent.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

GRE General Test scores

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

Other qualifications, evidence of excellence and relevant experience
 

• Preference may be given to those who have studied in a biological or chemical science, but applications from high-calibre candidates with mathematical and physical science backgrounds are welcome.

• Evidence of training or laboratory experience may be an advantage, and the relevance of the course to future career development plans may be considered.

• Publications are not required.

English language proficiency

Minimum scores required to meet the University's higher level requirement

IELTS Academic

7.5 

TOEFL iBT, including the 'Home Edition'

110

Home    
£13,310

Overseas    
£30,910

In the past four years, of the students who graduated from the course, around 60% pursued further postgraduate studies (PhD, MD/PhD and MBA) and 15% found employment in research positions either in academia or industry shortly after graduation. The remainder embarked in careers in medical communications (10%) and in consultancy (10%). A minority chose careers in other sectors (5%), e.g. medical sales and regulatory affairs.