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University of Bedfordshire
Park Square
Luton
Bedfordshire
UK, LU1 3JU
This course is designed to provide biology or biochemistry graduates with a wide range of specialised employment opportunities. It emphasises research and intensive practical experience, which takes place in a new laboratory facility that was created with the help of a £1m investment in postgraduate students.
The curriculum will give you a broad overview of drug discovery and development, mechanisms of drug action at molecular level, drug treatment of relevant human diseases, and practical experiences of cell and molecular technologies used in relevant areas of pharmacology at an advanced level. You will gain an in-depth knowledge of individual examples of drug development, specialising towards the end of the course in selected areas of your interest.
The programme will culminate in a lab-based research project of your choosing. You will draw upon the latest developments in lab and clinical practice, applying state-of-the-art technologies and instruments. You will find support throughout this process from research-active staff here at the University as well as in other institutions, pharmaceutical industries, government agencies and NHS sectors.
This course will support graduates seeking careers in drug research and development. You will be able to explore opportunities in pharmaceutical or biotechnological industries, academic institutions, the NHS and other public organisations. Key areas include: Higher Education, drug design, pre-clinical research in experimental and biological studies, pharmacogenomics and proteomics clinical research, drug registration, licensing and regulatory affairs, medical information, medical sales, medical writing, and cell and molecular-based technologies.
During the course you will:
Areas of study you may cover on this course include:
The assessment philosophy of the MSc Pharmacology Award conforms to the recommendations of the QAA Benchmarking statement for Pharmacy (MPharm). It is essential that the procedures used for the assessment of students' achievements will correspond with the knowledge, abilities and skills that are to be developed through their degree programme. Both formative and summative modes of assessment will be used.
Evidence on which assessment of student achievement is based will include:
Evidence on which assessment of student achievement is based may include:
The course assessment strategy is compliant with the University of Bedfordshires Quality Assurance Regulations (http://www.beds.ac.uk/aboutus/qa/documents).
The Fields commitment to practical skills and the ability to communicate and interpret data through scientific report writing is emphasised at all units of the programme. As such, practical (laboratory) reports form a significant proportion of student assessment. Practical work will be assessed through written practical reports 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 the units 1, 4 and 5 all require students to undertake oral presentations as a part of the unit assessments.
Throughout the course formative assessments will be carried out (eg practical work in all four units, mini-project in unit 1, literature review in units 2 and 3, case study in unit 4 and presentation in units 1, 4 and 5) prior to final summative assessments.
A students capability in carrying out research will be assessed through mini-project design, literature review, laboratory based research reports and presentations.
The group work will help students to develop transferable skills such as taking initiative, critical thinking, communication, team working and decision making. A students ability in oral communication will be assessed through presentations.
All assessed work will be marked on the 16 point grade scheme used throughout the University. The pass grade for all units will be grade 5 or above.
Upon successful completion of this course, students are expected to demonstrate:
1.Systematic understanding and a critical awareness of new technologies in cell and molecular biology.
2. Systematic knowledge and understanding of pharmacology of receptors especially with respect to emerging drug targets or ideas concerning in particular relevant to the discovery and characterization of receptors and putative mechanism of drug action.
3. Significant knowledge and understanding of the principles of drug design, pre-clinical evaluation, clinical trials, regulatory affairs and application of new technologies in the drug discovery and development process.
4. Significant knowledge and understanding of the therapeutic concepts and general principles relating to causes, aetiology, epidemiology, diagnosis and drug treatment of human diseases in current clinical practice and drug adverse effects.
5. Ability to use assured, accurate and fluent language to present your work both orally and in written form including use of graphs and images to clearly illustrate complex points.
6. Ability to synthesise and effectively use information from relevant sources and to independently and critically evaluate current research and advanced scholarship in the relevant subject areas.
7. Originality in the application of knowledge, together with a practical understanding of how established techniques of research and enquiry are used to create and interpret knowledge in laboratory based research.
8. Qualities, transferable skills (initiative, personal responsibility, effective communications, critical thinking, decision-making) and independent learning ability necessary for future employment.
The aim of the course is to provide fundamental understanding of drug research and development and treatment of relevant human diseases, and practical experience of new technologies applied in relevant areas of pharmacology at an advanced level, and to provide opportunities for specialisation through choice of project in one of the four main themes (i) cell and molecular biology, (ii) molecular pharmacology, (iii) drug discovery and development, (iv) clinical pharmacology and therapeutics that provide graduates with the expertise for subsequent employment in organisations undertaking these techniques and/or research.
The 5 units within the course allow for combinations leading to 3 possible awards (Master of Science degree, Postgraduate Diploma, and Postgraduate Certificate) depending upon successfully completing the following credit :
Units and credit values
1. Cell and Molecular Biology (30 credits)
2. Molecular Pharmacology (30 credits)
3. Drug Discovery and Development (30 credits)
4. Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics (30 credits)
5. Laboratory based research project (60 credits)
The course is currently designed for full-time or part-time attendance. Typically, part time students will take two units per year and carry out the research project in the third year. The laboratory research project can be based with the current employer if ratified by the course organiser. The 5 units within the course allow for combinations leading to 3 possible awards:
(i) Master of Science degree (MSc)
(ii) Postgraduate Diploma (PgD), and
(iii) Postgraduate Certificate (PgC)
Students successfully completing the full diet of taught units plus laboratory based research project (totalling 180 credits) will receive the award of MSc.
PgD and PgC would be considered as exit awards. Students who successfully complete four taught units only (120 credits) will receive a PgD.
Students who successfully complete two of four 30 credits unit combinations (total 60 credits) will receive a PgC.
A full Induction week programme will be provided for the students. In this week students will:
Other presentations will also be given by representatives of the Corporate Academic Advisory service (CAAS), the Learning Resources Centre (LRC), Professional and Academic Development (PAD) and the Student Union. The programme for Induction Week 2010 can be seen in Appendix (D).
Each student will be allocated a personal tutor to provide a spectrum of support ranging from assisting in the induction process to personal development planning. Student support will also be provided by the course manager, unit coordinators, lecturers / supervisors and students own peer groups.
BREO (the Universitys Blackboard based Virtual Learning Environment - VLE) provides a great deal of help and back-up material such as lecture notes and additional background information on all units. In some cases there are discussion boards and students can get in touch with lecturers and tutors vie e-mail. BREO also provides a certain amount of distance learning, revision material and formative assessments as well as containing all the administrative material needed such as the unit handbook and regular announcements. In addition all unit co-ordinators have set times during which students may book an appointment to discuss academic issues arising from a unit.
Where identified, special support will be provided to students with disabilities. The course requires students to carry out laboratory based practical and research projects. Disabled students should discuss the details with the Course Manager. Additional risk assessment will be carried out for laboratory based activities for disabled students and laboratory Health and Safety procedures will be followed.
It is recognised that some students entering the course, despite having the requisite English language entry qualification will require extra support in their use of the English language. Through diagnostic testing in Induction Week and by monitoring students performance in early stage assignments student requiring extra support will be directed to the Professional and academic development (PAD) team based in the Learning Resource Centre. The PAD team will be involved in delivering help session at key points through a students study on the course. In addition, subject to diagnostic testing, students may be required by the Course Leader to attend academic English classes (English for Academic Purposes and General English) provided by the Division of Language and Communication. English evening classes on Tuesday and Thursday evenings (6:30 8:30) every term are also held for students for whom English is their second language. The classes offer students an opportunity to improve their general command of the language, and take them towards the Cambridge University English Language exams, an English language qualification that is recognised world-wide, if they wish to sit the exams.
Student feedback is monitored through the student course representatives at the course committee meetings, USP questionnaires and the National Student Survey.
Collaborative activity and team working is an important aspect in modern science. Throughout the program, you are expected to work collaboratively in group work (eg, group practical work and group report). These group activities are designed to develop your team working skills and will be assessed by your group report.
Career:
The course programme will support graduates seeking careers in drug research and development from wide range of employment opportunities provided by pharmaceutical or biotechnological industries, academic institutions, the NHS and other public organisations in the following key areas:
Drug Design
Preclinical Research in Experimental and Biological Studies
Pharmacogenomics and Proteomics
Clinical Research
Product Registration, Licensing and Regulatory Affairs
Medical Information
Medical Sales
Medical Writing
Cellular and Molecular Technologies
Further study:
Opportunities exist for further postgraduate study (e.g. MPhil / PhD) in the areas of pharmacology, toxicology, cell and molecular biology, in the Division of Science and LIRANS.
The standard entry qualifications for UK and EU students will be a good honours degree in a biological or biochemical science related subject. Applicants may be considered with a qualification just below this standard with work experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology and chemical industrial sectors.
Applications from international students can be made directly to the University or via our representatives in your home country. Our IELTS requirements range from 6.0-7.0.
A foundation degree will be of particular interest if you have completed a Modern Apprenticeship, vocational A levels, BTEC National or equivalent.
Foundation degrees are also particularly suitable if you want to qualify while working.
Many students studying for foundation degrees come to us through work-based routes so you can apply for a foundation degree even if you don’t have traditional academic qualifications.
We welcome applicants with relevant work experience.
We will consider you as an individual and take into account all elements of your application, not just your qualifications. We are looking for both breadth and depth in your current studies as well as enthusiasm for the subject you wish to study.
The general requirement is one of the following:
Postgraduate applications (MA/MSc) should be made direct to the University using the standard University application form. There are some exceptions, please see individual course descriptions for details.
As a general guide, to apply for a place on an undergraduate course (BA/BSc) at the University you need to have completed your high school education and have the required English qualification.
We have students from all the European Union member countries so we are quick to make decisions on most qualifications.
(Please note that applicants on a full student visa are not eligible for part-time study)
We recommend that you apply directly to the University where possible, as this allows us to offer the quickest turnaround time for your application.
Please read the Direct application instructions before completing the course application form.
Application forms for accommodation in the student halls at Bedford campus and Luton campus are available in the Student life section
APL is available for international students applying for undergraduate (Bachelor degree) study. Please do not use this APL form to apply for postgraduate courses.
Use the APL form to tell us about any non-standard qualifications and/or work experience you have that you think should be taken into consideration with your application. `
The APL form should be submitted at the same time as the course application form.
We regret we are unable to process APL forms from students who have not submitted a formal course application form.
Return your completed application to:
University of Bedfordshire
International Admissions
Park Square
Luton
Bedfordshire
LU1 3JU
United Kingdom
T: +44 (0)1582 489326 (non-EU Students)
F: +44 (0)1582 743469
E: international-admissions@beds.ac.uk
In line with the QAA Benchmarking statements for Pharmacy (MPharm), motivation and challenge of the student is through a skilled and balanced selection of teaching and learning techniques, including:
Delivery is also in line with the Divisions Blended Learning strategy with regards e-, or network-, based learning which generally makes use of the BREO system. In line with University Policy, all units in the Division have a BREO site containing unit and assessment documents and details; assessment results; announcements / notices, lecture notes, Powerpoint presentations.
Students will be provided with training in presentation skills throughout the course during seminars and workshops. This translational skills training will equip them ahead of their case presentation and description of research progress.
As appropriate the BREO sites for a unit will also contain other support material to aid understanding of the course material. This allows it to act as a gateway to other web-based resources. Links are provided to websites containing information such as, similar lecture material; pictures or movie (avi, etc.); clips showing a biological principle in drug action, live or in a model; self-learning / assessment sites on the internet, journal articles or technical sites. These sorts of web-based material along with interactive websites that provide virtual-practical, where students can undertake practical or modelling on their own and view the results, are all methods of supporting independent and blended learning to improve the students performance.
The course supports meaningful learning through a curriculum that is intellectually challenging and of practical relevance to those seeking a future career in areas of pharmacology. The course is designed to encourage a reflective, student-centred approach to learning. The course incorporates some of the latest developments in the subject of cell and molecular biology, drug discovery and development, molecular pharmacology, and clinical pharmacology and therapeutics with students being referred to the latest books and key references in research journals as sources of information. As such the course will be challenging in introducing new ideas and concepts.
Students will be active in their learning through interaction in lectures, seminars, tutorials, workshops, participating in laboratory practical and in preparing the assessments. Students will be encouraged to be reflective in their learning by seeking to integrate the academic content of the different units on the course and reflecting on the implications of pharmacology on society. Students are encouraged to interact with the research active teaching team. Laboratory sessions are also good environments for student communication within the cohort making the learning process a collaborative effort.
The lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical sessions for full time students will take place at the Universitys Park Square campus, Division of Science. For part time students attendance for the four units will be at Park Square campus, however the practical project could be performed at their place of employment with prior agreement. Students will have the opportunity to carry out a laboratory based research project under supervision in laboratories of the University of Bedfordshire or in other institutions.
The course welcomes students with disabilities. During the application process disabled students discuss their needs with individual members of the academic staff, as well as staff from the Disability Advice Team. Normally does not provide an obstacle to students participating fully in the practical aspects of coursework.
Any students that have any form of disability or medical condition that might affect their studies should make themselves known to the Field Chair or Programme Manager BEFORE beginning their studies. This is particularly important where an existing condition may generate health and safety concerns either working in the laboratory or working alone in the field.
The Disability Advice Team is available to discuss any issues students may have and can provide services such as sign language interpreters, note takers, dyslexia screening / tuition and support with mobility on campus. They offer confidential advice and information about academic and personal issues, adjustments in examinations, applying for the Disabled Students' Allowances (DSA) and buying suitable equipment.
A minor potential barrier to study is wheel chair access during practical. This is limited in some laboratories and must be in accordance with health and safety regulations, although may be possible by special arrangements. Students requiring such assistance are asked to consult with the Universitys Disability Advisor and the Division of Science to resolve any potential problems before enrolling on the course. Students with asthma or related conditions should inform academic staff prior to commencing the practical work on a unit to ensure that their health and safety is safeguarded.
In addition to having a good knowledge and laboratory practical skills of your subject areas, you will improve your chances of employment by developing skills in the following areas:
Communication
To help with the development of communication skills you will:
Develop a strategy for using communication skills over an extended period of time.
Work in small groups during the laboratory practical, interacting with fellow students.
Write scientific reports for assessment using appropriate written English.
Make oral presentations supported by Powerpoint slides on the outcomes from your work and your research project.
Be expected to take a proactive role in lectures and tutorials, asking questions and volunteering opinions.
Students who are diagnosed with needs for extra support with writing and communications skills development may be required to take additional classes provided by the University.
Information Literacy
To help with the development of this you will:
Learn how to synthesise and effectively use information from relevant sources. You will also be taught about bioinformatics, the application of computing to aspects of the course subject.
Be expected to demonstrate effective use of word processing, database, statistical analysis software and presentation software such as PowerPoint.
Research and Evaluation
To help with the development of this you will:
Learn how to carry out literature and laboratory based research. You will also learn the ethical and health and safety issues associated with the research projects.
Creativity and Critical Thinking
To help with the development of this you will:
Learn how to critically evaluate information in the literature on recent scientific advances and their implications.
Learn how to critically evaluate laboratory results.
During the induction period, you will be introduced to Progress Files. A Progress File is a paper based document charting an individuals development and will contain three elements: the transcript, personal record and personal development planning. The Progress File will be monitored by your personal tutor.
You will be given guidance and information about the Division of Science policy on progress files during the induction.
Both staff and students are expected to maintain high professional standards by:
Maintaining a high attendance and punctuality rate for course related activities such as lectures, tutorials / seminars, practical sessions and meetings with lecturers etc.
Working within the deadlines.
Being committed to their own personal and professional development by seeking new knowledge and skills to enhance professional performance.
Working collaboratively and with a professional attitude.
Appropriately address ethical issues associated with research.
Appropriately address the health and safety issues in the university environment and especially in laboratory practice.
Giving credit whenever you use other peoples ideas (theory, facts, statistics, graphs, drawings, spoken or written words etc) to avoid plagiarism.
The professional standards will be introduced to students during the student induction period. Students should be proactive in maintaining these standards. Professional standards will be monitored and issues addressed throughout the program.
Ethical issues related to the course will be addressed within individual units as they arise and will be part of the assessment in some instances.
In formulating the project proposal and in its implementation, you will have the opportunity to show how well embedded the professional standards are by: your reliability in collaborating with fellow students, meeting deadlines and keeping appointments, showing an awareness of the ethical issues surrounding your area of research and by successful completion of health and safety risk assessments for your practical work.
