MSc Drug Discovery and Toxicology with Placement Year

This course gives you in-depth knowledge of the scientific basis of drug discovery with a particular emphasis on toxicology, the science behind the safety of drugs. We make full use of our geographical location at the heart of the UK pharmaceutical industry attracting numerous expert contributions from industry professionals (e.g. GSK, AZ).

The course will cover all aspects of new medicine research and development from identifying novel targets through drug screening to clinical trials of candidate medicines. With our excellent facilities, emphasis on practical work, and teaching underpinned by the latest research, you'll be qualified for research and development positions in pharmaceutical companies including discovery biology and toxicology, as well as a wide range of other non-laboratory roles in industry.

Alternatively, consider taking our other MSc Drug Discovery and Toxicology routes:

MSc Drug Discovery and Toxicology
MSc Drug Discovery and Toxicology with Advanced Research

Upon graduation, you may go on to work in a broad range of fields including: toxicology research, pharmaceutical research, clinical trials, clinical toxicology, forensic toxicology, food safety, academia research, medical writing/science journalism, UK government departments, education, or patent law. Alternatively, you may also use the MSc in Drug Discovery and Toxicology to underpin an application to study for a research degree such as MRes, MSc by Research, or a PhD in a related field.

The normal entry requirements for the programme are:

65% or above average grade in an undergraduate degree in the Biological Sciences or
A professional qualification accepted as equivalent to the above; or
A qualification in veterinary science, medicine or dentistry; or
A first or second class Honours Degree in disciplines other than those described above but where the applicant, in the opinion of the Programme Leader, would benefit from, and succeed on, the programme.
Students will be selected through interview

Why choose this course?
You'll benefit from being taught by expert staff with pharmaceutical industry research and development and toxicology experience
We have strong links to big pharma research sites nearby which provide you with the opportunity for numerous guest lecturers from the industry as well as networking opportunities
Our state of the art Science Building provides excellent facilities for laboratory based studies, including QPCR, cell culture, protein analysis, isolated tissue studies, immunohistochemistry
Upon graduation, you'll be equipped for working in a wide range of roles in the Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology industries
If successful you will have the opportunity to apply for a 12-month placement. If you are not successfull in finding a placement position, then you can transfer to the MSc Drug Discovery and Toxicology Advanced Route.