Masters Degrees (Pharmacology And Toxicology)

This programme provides vocational training in the theoretical, clinical and laboratory aspects of toxicology.

You will learn about the nature and mechanism of adverse effects of chemicals such as those found in industry, in the household, in agriculture, in medicine and those that occur naturally in the environment. We give particular emphasis to molecular and cellular mechanisms of toxicity and to risk assessment.

Our Toxicology programmes are designed to meet the future needs of the sector, with contributions by international experts from the pharmaceutical industries, contract research companies, government and external toxicology centres.

Course details

The MSc Toxicology programme provides training in theoretical, clinical and laboratory aspects of toxicology and acts as a conversion course, taking students from a variety of backgrounds and giving them new skills to enable them to move into research and employment in the field of toxicology and related disciplines.

Specific programme aims

The MSc in Toxicology programme aims to:

• provide a broad, modern training in the theoretical and practical aspects of toxicology
• prepare individuals to collate, interpret and communicate toxicological information
• provide an opportunity to study at the cutting edge of research in a chosen specialist field of toxicology in clinical practice, industry or academia
• develop student awareness of the importance of toxicology to industry, health, the environment and society

Learning and teaching

The School of Biosciences is recognised internationally as a major centre for teaching and research in toxicology. We provide a lively, highly interactive teaching environment, with integrated teaching by well established centres of bioscience, pathology, clinical pharmacology and toxicology, occupational health and environmental and eco-toxicology. You will be taught through a combination of lectures, practical classes, workshops, tutorials and a research project all supported by directed reading and course work.

Most of the teaching takes place at the University but there are important contributions from external experts working in the pharmaceutical and other industries, contract research companies and government establishments as well as visits to external centres of toxicology. These external contacts are very important in relation to the provision of resources, specialist applied aspects of the training and future employment.

Skills gained

As well as specialist disciplinary knowledge, graduates of the MSc Toxicology programme will also acquire many transferable skills such as the ability to design experiments using a variety of research techniques, collate and interpret the data, use of specialist computer software packages to predict metabolism and toxicity, communication and interpersonal skills, which will all provide an appropriate grounding for employment or further study.

What can I do with an MSc in Toxicology?

The success rate of students on the MSc in Toxicology programme is approximately 95% and the career opportunities are excellent. Even in times of economic hardship toxicology remains a necessary and important area for funding. The current concern over environmental safety adds to these opportunities.

Those completing the programme in recent years have been employed, for example, in:

• the pharmaceutical industries
• contract research laboratories
• government bodies such as the Health and Safety Executive, Health Protection Agency, Food Standards Agency
• NHS Poisons Units
• water research establishments in pollution control
• hospital and research laboratories

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The Analytical Toxicology MSc is a unique study programme that integrates theoretical and practical aspects of analytical science with clinical and forensic toxicology. This course will provide you with a detailed knowledge and comprehensive understanding of advanced analytical toxicology and its applications.

Key benefits

• Theory-based study programme developed with the collaboration of both national and international experts in the field of clinical and forensic toxicology.
• Designed for scientists wishing to enter the field of clinical or forensic toxicology, or for clinical and forensic practitioners who want to enhance their existing knowledge and professional experience.
• King's is ranked 7th in the world for Pharmacy & Pharmacology (QS World University Rankings by Subject 2017)
• This new course, unique in the UK, integrates theoretical and practical aspects of analytical science with clinical and forensic toxicology.
• Excellent career prospects that include analytical and supervisory roles within government and private institutions.

Description

The Analytical Toxicology MSc has been designed for scientists wishing to enter the field of clinical or forensic toxicology, or for clinical and forensic specialists wanting to develop their existing knowledge and professional experience. This one-year course explores the close connections between clinical and forensic toxicology through a range of modules that includes advanced analytical toxicology, core analytical sciences, biochemical, clinical and forensic toxicology. You will also complete a research project and dissertation related to analytical toxicology.

You will study modules totalling 180 credits throughout the year, with 60 credits coming from the research project and dissertation.

Location

The majority of learning for this degree takes place at the King’s College London Waterloo Campus (Franklin Wilkins Building).

Work placements are at a variety of sites including Cambridgeshire, Surrey, Malvern, Birmingham, and Teddington.

Regulating body

King’s College is regulated by the Higher Education Funding Council for England.

Career prospects

Graduate career paths include analytical and supervisory roles within government and private institutions.

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Toxicology is the study of adverse effects of chemicals and other substances on humans, other animals, plants and the environment, and how they can be avoided or minimised. These courses provide an introduction to the principles of modern toxicology in relation to environmental, occupational, and public health in the context of the chemical, food and pharmaceutical industries. These courses are aimed at individuals with a scientific qualification who wish to develop their skills and knowledge of toxicology and gain a recognised third-level qualification in the area. Current practising toxicologists will also benefit from undertaking individual modules for continuing professional development (CPD), as all of the modules will contribute towards maintenance of professional toxicological accreditation. The course content has been approved by the Irish Register of Toxicologists (IRT) and is recognised as accreditation for CPD in this area.

Key Fact

These courses have been developed in close collaboration with the Irish Register of Toxicologists (IRT) and are also approved for accreditation towards becoming a registered toxicologist and for CPD credits towards maintaining IRT/ERT accreditation. The courses are run by European Registered Toxicologists (ERT), including guest lecturers delivering ‘state-of-the-art’ contributions as practising experts in a range of toxicological roles, from basic research to national and European regulatory bodies.

Course Content and Structure

• Essential Pharmacology for the Toxicologist • Experimental Toxicology and Risk Assessment in the 21st Century • Environmental and Occupational Toxicology • Professional Skills for the Modern Toxicologist • Food Toxicology • Medical and Forensic Toxicology • Regulatory Toxicology

Lectures are delivered by staff of international renown in their field, many of whom are practising toxicologists. Study days and e-learning are utilised to maximise flexibility in how students manage their study time.

Career Opportunities

This programme provides a comprehensive overview of toxicology, and current toxicological assessments, highlighting current issues in toxicology. Graduates will gain the required level of professional ability to operate as independent toxicologists by developing a sophisticated level of data interpretation, communication skills, excellence in problem solving, and ability to critically evaluate and form judgements on complex toxicological problems.

Facilities and Resources

The UCD School of Biomolecular and Biomedical Science is closely linked to the UCD Conway institute of Biomedical and Biomolecular research, which provides core technologies such as NMR spectroscopy, real-time PCR, electron microscopy, light microscopy, digital pathology and flow cytometry.

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Our research in Pharmacology centres on the molecular basis of disease processes. Our expertise ranges from in vivo models through to molecular pharmacology, and computational biology through to clinical application.

About the course

The research conducted is focused on utilising integrated physiological and pharmacological approaches with biochemical and molecular techniques to study disease states, underlying mechanisms of disease and drug actions, with a view to identifying novel mechanisms, therapeutic targets and agents with a clinical and translational focus.

Why choose this course?

-An internationally recognised research qualification
-Developing advanced subject expertise at postgraduate level
-Develop research skills through practice and extensive research experience
-Employers are looking for high calibre graduates with advanced skills who can demonstrate independence through research
-Highly rigorous researcher development programme
-Achieved Athena SWAN Bronze award for our department
-Strong supportive research community
-Dedicated research space in our well-equipped laboratories including state-of-the-art cell culture facilities, in vitro pharmacology and molecular biology laboratories as well as confocal imaging system.

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Your programme of study

The University of Aberdeen is highly regarded for Clinical Pharmacology as the discipline has been taught and delivered for 30 years and research spans 50 years. The programme draws on strengths within the university and medical area within disease discovery and treatment. The major innovation of Insulin was first developed at University of Aberdeen in the 1920s, winning the inventors a Nobel Prize and giving the world a major step forward in the management and regulation of insulin. Since this time the discovery of drug process, treatment and design has been developed and researched at Aberdeen. The University is also known for its research in food and nutrition, bacteria, gut issues researched at the world famous Rowett Institute and growing knowledge of disease process and latest innovative treatments.

Clinical pharmacology forms a critical part of the drug development process and our graduates are employed in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. These industries are now in rapid growth due to a combination of innovations and strength within customised and other types of medicine and treatment industry areas. The industry is also a major contributor of GDP in the UK. Further innovations which link into this industry come from easier upscaling processes, customisation and the Internet of Things and more ability to treat and diagnose at source.

There is always a strong need for the discipline to provide a foundation to any new innovations which often come from multidisciplinary teams. Our aim is to train students in the major areas of clinical pharmacology including molecular pharmacology, drug metabolism and toxicology, therapeutics, pharmacokinetics, pharmcovigilance, regulatory affairs and experimental medicine. The programme aims to achieve this by a multi-disciplinary approach.

This programme is ideal for newly qualified graduates in medical science disciplines such as biomedical sciences, biochemistry, pharmacology, pharmacy, medicine and similar degrees. Careers can include work in clinical trials and NPD in pharmaceutical industries, doctoral research towards teaching, spin-outs and major innovations, regulation in the pharmaceutical industry and more.

Courses listed for the programme

Semester 1

• Molecular Pharmacology
• Drug Metabolism and Toxicology
• Therapeutics
• Applied Statistics
• Basic Skills- Induction
• Generic Skills

Semester 2

• Pharmacovigilance
• Drug Development to Evidence Based Medicine
• Pharmacokinetics
• Basic Research Methods
• Business of Science

Optional

• Health Informatics (distance learning

Semester 3

• Research Project

Find out more detail by visiting the programme web page

Why study at Aberdeen?

• You are taught by one of the top 10 medical schools in the UK with one of the largest campuses in Europe
• Teaching is from academic and clinical teachers within a clinical setting
• You get a great range of multidisciplinary learning from our research
• We are in the top 10 for university spin out and company formation

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen
• Full Time or Part Time
• 12 Months or 24 Months
• September start

International Student Fees 2017/2018

Find out about fees

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page

Living in Aberdeen

Find out more about:

Your Accommodation

• Catered Accommodation
• Self-Catering     

Campus Facilities

• University of Aberdeen: A Global Community
• University of Aberdeen: We are international
• Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies
• Sport
• Societies
• Review

Find out more about living in Aberdeen and living costs

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This internationally recognised course will prepare you for a fulfilling career as a biomedical scientist in the rapidly developing bioscience and healthcare sectors.

This course is designed to enable you pursue a career as a professional biomedical scientist in a variety of research, development and leadership roles.

You'll be supported by an internationally recognised and highly active biomedicine science group with varied research interests and links with healthcare industries, research institutes and the NHS.

See the website http://www.napier.ac.uk/en/Courses/MSc-Biomedical-Science-Postgraduate-FullTime

What you'll learn

This course provides detailed knowledge of key concepts in immunology, toxicology, pharmacology and disease biology and how these disciplines are applied in biomedical science.

You’ll gain critical understanding of specialist research areas and unique insights into the challenges currently facing biomedical science. You’ll also acquire an in-depth appreciation of research and development practices in the healthcare industries through guest lectures and site visits to specialised laboratories. These experiences will allow you to explore and critique issues of relevance to professional working practice, enhancing your skills in evidence based decision making.

There is an emphasis on developing your practical laboratory skills with various opportunities for hands-on experience in a range of current techniques and practices. In your final trimester you’ll undertake an independent project within a vibrant biomedical research team, allowing you to apply and further develop your technical, research and professional skills. There may be the opportunity to conduct your research project externally in a relevant organisation or industry.

You’ll also develop key skills including communication, problem solving, team work, project management, and leadership. You’ll learn through interactive lectures, workshops, tutorials and laboratory sessions, and by engaging with guided independent study. A variety of assessment tools are used to enhance and evaluate your learning.

This is a full-time course over one year and is split up into three trimesters. You can choose to start in either January or September There may also be some opportunities to study abroad.

This programme is also available as a Masters by Research: http://www.napier.ac.uk/research-and-innovation/research-degrees/courses

Modules

• Advanced immunology
• Biology of disease and therapeutics
• Molecular pharmacology and toxicology
• Research skills
• Molecular pathogenesis of microbial Infection
• Drug design and chemotherapy
• Research project

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Careers

You’ll be prepared for employment in the rapidly developing bioscience and healthcare sectors. This may be in hospitals, NHS, local government or health and safety divisions in various roles including research, R&D support management and consultancy.

Opportunities also exist for qualified biomedical scientists in a range of industrial settings from smaller medical biotechnology enterprises to global pharmaceutical companies.

If you currently work in the biomedical sector, this programme will enhance your prospects for career progression. Graduates will also be qualified to continue their studies at PhD level and follow an academic career.

How to apply

http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/how-to-apply

SAAS Funding

Nothing should get in the way of furthering your education. Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) awards funding for postgraduate courses, and could provide the help you need to continue your studies. Find out more: http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/saas-funded-courses

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Unique in Europe, this course combines biomedicine and pharmaceutical science to prepare you for a rewarding career in the pharmaceutical, bioscience or healthcare sectors.

If you're interested in a career in the fascinating and challenging world of drug design, this is the course that will take you there.

Rather than presenting just one of the disciplines used in the field, this postgraduate degree, unique in Europe, blends the subjects you need - biomedicine and pharmaceutical science - into one comprehensive course that focuses on the integration of modern organomedicinal chemistry and molecular biology.

You’ll study various steps involved in developing and creating effective drugs, from concept to clinic, including the theories and practical applications of chemical drug design and immunology, pharmacology and molecular biology. Learning will be based on emergent technology from academic research and how it is applied to the drug development process, identification of drug targets, and development of effective drugs via reference to the relevant biological systems and pathways.

See the website http://www.napier.ac.uk/en/Courses/MSc-Drug-Design-and-Biomedical-Science-Postgraduate-FullTime

What you'll learn

This course provides the knowledge, understanding and practical experience you’ll need to forge a rewarding career in research and development in the pharmaceutical, bioscience or healthcare sectors. You’ll develop in-depth understanding of disease processes and molecular targets and an ability to apply this knowledge and theory to key aspects of drug design and biomedical science.

Equipped with the ability to follow developments in the field, you’ll learn to apply them to your work and make innovative contributions to the industry that will benefit others. Complex issues often arise in this field: you’ll acquire the skills necessary to make informed judgements and effectively communicate decisions.

There is an emphasis on developing your practical laboratory skills with various opportunities for hands-on experience in a range of current techniques and practices. In your final trimester you’ll undertake an independent project within a vibrant biomedical or drug design research team, allowing you to apply and further develop your technical, research and professional skills. There may be the opportunity to conduct your research project externally in a relevant organisation or industry in the UK or overseas.

You’ll also develop key skills including communication, problem solving, team work, project management, and leadership. You’ll learn through interactive lectures, workshops, tutorials, site visits and laboratory sessions, and by engaging with guided independent study. A variety of assessment tools are used to enhance and evaluate your learning.

This programme is also available as a Masters by Research: http://www.napier.ac.uk/research-and-innovation/research-degrees/courses

Modules

• Current practice in drug development
• Advanced immunology
• Molecular pharmacology and toxicology
• Research skills
• Quality Control and Pharmaceutical Analysis or Biotechnology and Drug Discovery
• Drug design and chemotherapy
• Research project

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Careers

The rapidly developing pharmaceutical, bioscience and healthcare sectors all need qualified drug discovery or biomedical scientists. This course is your fastest and most effective route to a successful career in drug design.

You could establish a laboratory-based career with global pharmaceutical companies, developing biotechnology companies, contract drug testing, hospitals, NHS, local government or health and safety divisions.

Alternatively, further studies to PhD level are available at institutions all over the world leading to an academic career.

How to apply

http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/how-to-apply

SAAS Funding

Nothing should get in the way of furthering your education. Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) awards funding for postgraduate courses, and could provide the help you need to continue your studies. Find out more: http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/saas-funded-courses

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Toxicology, the study of drugs and poisons, is an expanding area of study that offers graduates a wide range of career options. On this course you'll study the signs and symptoms associated with the use of common drugs and poisons, basic pharmacology, mechanisms of drug/poison action, drug metabolism and drug elimination from the body. In addition to the more traditional areas of forensic toxicology, the course will introduce you to aspects of environmental forensic science where toxicology may be involved.

The course is delivered by experienced forensic toxicologists and forensic practitioners with an emphasis on professional capabilities. Wherever possible the study will be case lead. Our objective is to provide excellent, theoretically informed, science-based learning as well as research skills.

Hear from Gina Ross, a current student, referring to the course leader, Professor David Ossleton: "Thank you for everything you have done this year (as well as inspiring me to take toxicology when I was an undergraduate here). You have exceeded my expectations and helped me to improve not just my toxicological skills but my confidence in myself. I am so glad that I took the MSc and I look forward to seeing you in the future."

Core units:
Forensic Science
Forensic Toxicology
Laboratory & Research Skills
Extended Research Project.

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Explore drug development, manufacture and production and enhance your prospects for a career as a drug discovery or development scientist in the pharmaceutical, healthcare, nutraceutical or bioscience industries.

This course provides expert critical and technical knowledge related to the development, analysis and production of medicines, the drug industry and regulatory affairs.

You'll study recent trends in chemical, biological and biotechnological therapeutics and evaluate the latest technologies used in the pharmaceutical industry.

You'll also gain an understanding of the processes and methods used in clinical trials and the regulation of medicines and acquire the skills and knowledge to pursue your career in pharmaceutical science.

See the website http://www.napier.ac.uk/en/Courses/MSc-Pharmaceutical-Science-Postgraduate-FullTime

What you'll learn

This course provides the opportunity to acquire all the attributes necessary for a successful career in pharmaceutical science, undertaking lead research and development, or analytical management roles in the drug and healthcare industries.

You’ll acquire broad knowledge of contemporary, integrated drug discovery strategies and acquire the necessary skills to communicate effectively across the key, diverse component disciplines with other professional scientists and non-specialist audiences.

You’ll develop broad knowledge of current pharmaceutical analysis and quality control strategies and will learn about GMP and GLP compliance. You’ll also gain an in-depth critical understanding of current research in biotechnology and pharmaceutical science.

There is an emphasis on developing your practical laboratory skills with various opportunities for hands-on experience in a range of current techniques and practices including specialist equipment such as HPLC, UV/Vis, and FTIR. In your final trimester you’ll undertake an independent project within a vibrant research team, allowing you to apply and further develop your technical, research and professional skills. There may be the opportunity to conduct your research project externally in a relevant organisation or pharmaceutical industry in the UK or overseas.

You‘ll also develop key skills including communication, problem solving, team work, project management, and leadership. You’ll learn through interactive lectures, workshops, tutorials, site visits and laboratory sessions, and by engaging with guided independent study. A variety of assessment tools are used to enhance and evaluate your learning.

This is a full-time course taken over one year and split up into three trimesters. You can choose to start in either January or September. There may also be some opportunities to study abroad.

This programme is also available as a Masters by Research.

Modules

• Current practice in drug development
• Molecular pharmacology and toxicology
• Current topics in pharmaceutical science
• Research skills
• Quality Control and Pharmaceutical Analysis
• Drug design and chemotherapy
• Research project

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Careers

A large proportion of our graduates enter laboratory based and research management based product development work. They are employed in industries ranging from the big pharmaceutical companies to developing biotech companies; contract drug testing companies and service providers to the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries; hospital laboratories, NHS and local government.

If you currently work in a relevant sector, this course will enhance your prospects for career progression. This qualification also provides a sound platform for study to PhD level in pharmaceutical and biomolecular sciences and an academic career.

How to apply

http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/how-to-apply

SAAS Funding

Nothing should get in the way of furthering your education. Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) awards funding for postgraduate courses, and could provide the help you need to continue your studies. Find out more: http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/saas-funded-courses

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About the Programme

This MSc in Biomedical Science, a two-year, part-time course introduces students to an interdisciplinary approach to research, which utilises technologies and skills from a wide spectrum of scientific, engineering and clinical disciplines to address fundamental questions originating in biology and medicine. Aimed at individuals employed in the biomedical device, pharmaceutical and diagnostic sectors, this course has been developed to meet the needs of working graduates who wish to update their knowledge and/or change careers.

A Prime Location

The NUI Galway campus offers students the vibrancy and activity of a bustling community with over 40,000 students. Offering an extensive range of academically-challenging undergraduate and postgraduate degrees and diplomas of international quality, NUIG’s programmes provide students with opportunities for personal and academic development, as well as equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to embark on successful careers. The University's long-standing policy of innovative programme development ensures that the teaching programmes respond to the ever-changing needs of employers and of the economy.
Being a University City, Galway is a lively energetic place throughout the year. The University, situated close to the heart of Galway, enjoys an intimate relationship with the city and during the academic year, 15% of the population of the city are students. A compact, thriving city, Galway caters to youth like few other places can. The University's graduates have played a pivotal role in all areas of the development of Galway, including the arts, industry and commerce.

Programme Delivery

The programme provides you with the means of achieving the mathematical, computational, and instrumentation skills required in this field. The programme covers modules in Cellular Biology, Innovation and Technology Transfer, Anatomy (Histology & Gross), Biomaterials, and a practical module. Additional modules offered include Molecular and Regenerative Medicine, Applied Pharmacology and Toxicology, Monitoring for Health Hazards at Work, Lasers, Stereology and Tissue Engineering and Biomechanics.

Students attend lectures once every 5 weeks, with distance learning supported by Echo360 Lecture Capture and Blackboard technologies. Product Development, Validation and Regulation, as well as Project Management, Experimental Design and Data Analysis, are also covered. Students complete a research project worth a third of the final grade. The research may be done in-house at the student’s place of work or it may be done in collaboration with NUI Galway based researchers.

Students who are unable to complete a research project have the option to leave with a PDip Biomedical Science (Level 9). The PG Cert (Level 8) caters for those not in a position to commit more than one year to postgraduate studies. However, following successful completion of the PG Cert, students may request a transfer into the second year of the MSc programme, assuming numbers permit it. Alternatively, students may choose to leave with a PG Cert, but may request entry into the MSc programme two or four years later, joining a subsequent student cohort.

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Develop your understanding of key concepts and practices in the biotechnologies that drive new product innovation as well as the business principles underlying commercialisation of biomedical research.

This course is designed to enhance your career in the medical or pharmaceutical biotechnology sectors in a variety of research, product and technology development and leadership roles.

Medical Biotechnology will equip you with broad theoretical knowledge and critical understanding of advanced principles in biotechnology. You'll also gain the practical skills required to underpin a career within a business or research environment.

See the website http://www.napier.ac.uk/en/Courses/MSc-Medical-Biotechnology-Postgraduate-FullTime

What you'll learn

This course provides detailed knowledge of key concepts in cell technology, bioprocessing and molecular analysis and how these approaches are applied in areas of specific relevance to medical and pharmaceutical applications such as drug design and discovery, immunology and microbial infection.

You’ll explore and critically evaluate the technologies driving discovery and modification of natural compounds for use in medicine; the relationship between progress in our understanding of disease and the development of diagnostics and treatments; as well as the application of theoretical concepts to the use of biological systems for production of drugs.

Business and entrepreneurship are also a core feature of this programme. You’ll address themes that influence the success of any biotechnology venture such as intellectual property, bioethics, sustainability and public perception through the development of a novel business concept.

There is an emphasis on developing your practical laboratory skills with various opportunities for hands-on experience in a range of current techniques and practices such as mammalian cell culture and fermentation. In your final trimester you’ll undertake an independent project within a vibrant research team, allowing you to apply and further develop your technical, research and professional skills. There may be the opportunity to conduct your research project externally in a relevant organisation or bio-industry.

You’ll also develop key skills including communication, problem solving, team work, project management, and leadership. You’ll learn through interactive lectures, workshops, tutorials, site visits and laboratory sessions, and by engaging with guided independent study. A variety of assessment tools are used to enhance and evaluate your learning.

This programme is also available as a Masters by Research: http://www.napier.ac.uk/research-and-innovation/research-degrees/courses

Modules

• Cell technology
• Business and bioethics
• Research skills
• Biotechnology and drug discovery
• Molecular pathogenesis of microbial infection
• Research project

One optional module from
• Advanced immunology
• Current practice in drug development
• Molecular pharmacology and toxicology

Study modules mentioned above are indicative only. Some changes may occur between now and the time that you study.

Careers

Within the life sciences, biotechnology is the most rapidly growing sector and it is predicted that the global expansion in this field will be a key driver in the world economy.

This programme provides opportunities for laboratory-based or research management and product development work in a variety of industries ranging from multi-national companies to smaller biotechnology enterprises in the medical, pharmaceutical, nutraceutical and biochemical sectors.

Opportunities may also exist in contract research companies and service providers to the biotechnology sector, in addition to research institutes and local government.

Successful completion of the MSc programme provides a sound platform for further study in a research setting; graduates will be qualified to continue to PhD studies in the bio-molecular sciences.

How to apply

http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/how-to-apply

SAAS Funding

Nothing should get in the way of furthering your education. Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS) awards funding for postgraduate courses, and could provide the help you need to continue your studies. Find out more: http://www.napier.ac.uk/study-with-us/postgraduate/fees-and-funding/saas-funded-courses

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MSc Forensic Toxicology combines aspects of analytical chemistry, biochemistry and pharmacology that are crucial to the role of the drugs chemist working within a toxicological environment. While the primary focus of this course will be drugs of abuse, the underpinning science and methodologies are equally relevant to a toxicologist analytical chemist working in the pharmaceutical or other related industries.

As a Forensic Toxicologist you may be called to provide evidence in a court of law, training in this important aspect is provided through an Expert Witness module which includes a moot court presentation. In addition to acquiring a sound theoretical understanding of the subject area there is a strong emphasis on developing practical skills throughout the course.

This cumulates in a 60 credit project whereby students have the opportunity to specialise in various areas of drugs toxicology. This course will appeal to graduates from a wide range of disciplines including forensic science, chemistry, biology and other related disciplines.

PROFESSIONAL ACCREDITATION

We will be seeking accreditation from the Royal Society of Chemistry.

LEARNING ENVIRONMENT AND ASSESSMENT

Computing Facilities are available in the general computing suites found within the building and throughout campus. Extensive Resources are available to support your studies provided by Learning & Information Services (LIS) – library and IT staff. You are advised to take advantage of the free training sessions designed to enable you to gain all the skills you need for your research and study.

LIS provide access to a huge range of electronic resources – e-journals and databases, e-books, images and texts.

Course and module materials are not provided in ‘hard copy’ format, however, wherever practicable, lecture notes and/or presentations, seminar materials, assignment briefs and materials and other relevant information and resources are made available in electronic form via eLearn. This is the brand name for the on-line Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) that the University uses to support and enhance teaching and learning.

All students can access the eLearn spaces for the course and modules that they are registered for. Once logged into your eLearn area you can access material from the course and all of the modules you are studying without having to log in to each module separately.

The modules are assessed by both coursework and examination. To ensure that you do not have an excessive amount of assessment at any one time, the coursework assessment will take place uniformly throughout the course.

OPPORTUNITIES

The course is designed to equip students with the skills, knowledge and understanding to work in forensic toxicology, toxicology and other areas of chemical analysis.

FURTHER INFORMATION

Semester 1 of the course is designed to ensure that you have the basic skills needed to obtain an MSc. It is important that you enhance the skills you have that will be of benefit when you gain employment after the course. The main skills that you will enhance will be presentational skills, report writing, independent working and problem solving.

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Pharmacy at Sunderland is ranked sixth in the country, according to The Guardian University Guide 2013.

Course overview

Do you want to contribute to the discovery and development of drugs that could potentially improve the health and well-being of millions of people? The UK has long been a leader in this complex technical area, in which each new drug requires around $1 billion of development work.

Our research-led teaching and state-of-the-art facilities make the University of Sunderland one of the UK's top locations for pharmaceutical science. Our strong links with the pharmaceutical industry ensure a flow of guest speakers and good contacts for your chosen Masters project/dissertation. Previous projects have involved collaborations with companies such as AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Helena Biosciences.

The course covers advanced pharmaceutics, pharmaceutical analysis, drug design, pharmacology, proteomics and pharmacogenomics. You will also cover regulatory processes for medicines, in line with ICH guidelines. The course is a direct response to employers’ search for postgraduates who have a mix of theoretical and practical skills and who will push boundaries in drug development.

With a Masters course, it’s important to consider the relevance of the research interests of tutors who will supervise your dissertation. At Sunderland, our interests include pharmaceutical analysis, process chemistry, various drug discovery programmes, and drug delivery systems, including those for large biological pharmaceuticals. Our academic team have produced some ‘world-leading’ research, according to the latest Research Excellence Framework (2014).

Course content

The course mixes taught elements with self-directed research. The topic of the project / dissertation is negotiated to fit both your personal interests and the expertise of Sunderland's supportive tutors. Modules on this course include:
Core modules
-Essential Research and Study Skills (20 Credits)
-Fundamentals for Pharmaceutical Science (20 Credits)
-The Pharmaceutical R&D Cycle and its Regulation (20 Credits)

Choose four out of the five following modules
-Advanced Pharmacology (15 Credits)
-Pharmacogenomics and Proteomics (15 Credits)
-Advanced Pharmaceutical Analysis (15 Credits)
-Advanced Drug Design (15 Credits)
-Advanced Pharmaceutics (15 Credits)

Choose one Masters option
-Double Project (60 Credits)
Or
-Double Dissertation (60 Credits)
Or
-Single Project (30 Credits) and Single Dissertation (30 Credits)

Teaching and assessment

We use a wide variety of teaching and learning methods which include lectures, seminars, open learning, laboratory work and group work.

The Masters project may involve collaboration with a pharmaceutical company. Previous projects have involved collaborations with companies such as AstraZeneca, Pfizer and Helena Biosciences.

Compared to an undergraduate course, you will find that this Masters requires a higher level of independent working and problem solving. Assessment methods include laboratory reports, oral presentations, case studies, critical reviews, examinations and the Masters project.

Facilities & location

This course is based in the Sciences Complex at our City Campus, which boasts multi-disciplinary laboratories and cutting-edge equipment thanks to multi-million pound investments.

Facilities for Pharmaceutics
We have pharmaceutical-related equipment for wet granulation, spray drying, capsule filling, tablet making, mixing inhalation, film coating and freeze drying. As well as standard pharmacopoeial test methods, such as dissolution testing, friability and disintegration, we also offer highly sophisticated test methods. These include rheometry, thermal analysis (differential scanning calorimetry and hot stage microscopy), tests for powder flow, laser diffraction, photon correlation spectroscopy, image analysis and laser confocal microscopy.

Facilities for Medicinal Chemistry
Our state-of-the-art spectroscopic facility allows us to confirm the structures of new molecules that could be potential pharmaceutical products and to investigate the structures of potential medicinal substances that have been isolated from plants. We are equipped with Liquid Chromatography-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Mass Spectroscopy (LC-NMR/MS) platforms; this is an exceptional facility for a university. We also have low and high resolution mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance and elemental analysis equipment. Our facilities allow you to gain hands-on experience of a wide range of analytical techniques such as atomic absorption spectroscopy and infra-red spectroscopy, which are of great importance in determining both ionic/metal content of pharmaceuticals and simple chemical structures respectively. You will also gain experience of revolutionary protein and DNA separation techniques, as well as Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography (x8) and Gas Chromatography for separating all kinds of samples of pharmaceutical or biomedical interest.

Facilities for Pharmacology
Our highly technical apparatus will give you first-hand experience of the principles of drug action and the effects of drugs on pharmacological and cellular models. As a result, you gain a better understanding of the effects of drugs on specific receptors located throughout the human body and related physiological effects.

University Library Services
We’ve got thousands of books and e-books on pharmaceutical and biomedical science, with many more titles available through the inter-library loan service. We also subscribe to a comprehensive range of print and electronic journals so you can access the most reliable and up-to-date academic and industry articles. Some of the most important sources for your studies include:
-Embase, which is a complex database covering drug research, pharmacology, pharmaceutics, toxicology, clinical and experimental human medicine, health policy and management, public health, occupational health, environmental health, drug dependence and abuse, psychiatry, forensic medicine and biomedical engineering/instrumentation
-PsycINF, which includes information about the psychological aspects of medicine, psychiatry, nursing, sociology, pharmacology and physiology
-PubMed, which contains life science journals, online books and abstracts that cover fields such as medicine, nursing, dentistry, veterinary medicine and health care
-Science Direct, which offers more than 18,000 full-text journals published by Elsevier
-Web of Science, which covers a broad range of science areas

Learning Environment
Sunderland Pharmacy School has a rich heritage in scientific studies and our degree courses are extremely well respected in the industry. We are fully plugged into relevant medical and pharmaceutical industry bodies, with strong links and an exchange of ideas and people. Your Masters project may involve collaboration with a pharmaceutical company, including working at their sites.

Employment & careers

Graduates from this course can pursue a variety of careers in the following areas; Drug Design, Pharmaceutical Analysis and Research, Pre-clinical Research in Experimental and Biological Studies, Formulation and Product Development, Pharmacogenomics and Proteomics, Clinical Research, Product Registration, Licensing and Regulatory Affairs.

Previous Sunderland graduates have been employed in companies such as GSK, Eisai, Reckitt Benckiser, Merck, Sharp & Dohme and Norbrook Laboratories.

Some students may apply for a PhD programme or those who already hold a Pharmacy degree can pursue MSc/PG Pharmaceutical Sciences for the Overseas Pharmacist Assessment Programme (OSPAP) and go through one-year pre-registration training.

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Sunderland is ranked sixth in the UK for pharmacy and pharmacology, according to The Guardian University Guide 2013.

Course overview

This Masters is one of the few in the UK that covers biopharmaceuticals as well as pharmaceuticals. The course covers drug delivery systems for large molecules such as proteins, genes and anticancer drugs that offer innovative ways to improve the health and wellbeing of our society.

The course also covers advanced formulations and delivery of small drug molecules. There is a focus on nanotechnology, dosage forms, pharmacokinetics and statistical methods used in data analysis.

Our supportive tutors will guide the development of rigorous approaches to research including sound methodologies, good manufacturing practice, high laboratory standards and effective communication of results.

Your Masters research project will be supervised by an expert in the relevant field, possibly in collaboration with a pharmaceutical company or research institution.

This course is particularly relevant if you plan to undertake a PhD in the area of pharmaceutical sciences, biopharmaceuticals or drug delivery. It is also suitable if you are considering, or already involved in, a career in pharmaceutical-related industries, hospitals or research institutions.

Pharmacy is a particular area of strength at the University of Sunderland. We have worked with GlaxoSmithKline for over 20 years and Pfizer has funded research projects at Sunderland for over 10 years.

Course content

The course mixes taught elements with independent research and self-directed study. There is flexibility to pursue personal interests in considerable depth, with guidance and inspiration from Sunderland's supportive tutors. Modules on this course include:
-Dosage Forms and Pharmacokinetics (20 Credits)
-Delivering Gene and Therapeutic Proteins (20 Credits)
-Essential Research and Study Skills (20 Credits)
-Research Manipulation (20 Credits)
-Nanotechnology (20 Credits)
-Bioinformatics (20 Credits)
-Research Project (60 Credits)

Teaching and assessment

We use a wide variety of teaching and learning methods which include lectures, seminars, problem-based learning, laboratory work, group work and visits to relevant companies. We also welcome guest speakers from the pharmaceutical industry who deliver guest lectures and seminars.

Compared to an undergraduate course, you will find that this Masters requires a higher level of independent working. Assessment methods include written examinations, online tests and coursework, which includes oral and poster presentations.

Facilities & location

Sunderland's exceptional facilities include state-of-the-art equipment for pharmaceutics, synthetic, analytical and medicinal chemistry and pharmacology.

Facilities for Chemistry
We’ve recently spent £1 million on our new state-of-the-art analytical equipment. The analytical suite contains equipment which is industry-standard for modern clinical and pharmaceutical laboratories. Our state-of-the-art spectroscopic facility allows us to investigate the structures of new molecules and potential medicinal substances. We are equipped with Liquid Chromatography-Nuclear Magnetic Resonance and Mass Spectroscopy (LCNMR/MS) platforms; this is an exceptional facility for a university. We also have low and high-resolution mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance and elemental analysis equipment.

Our facilities allow you to gain hands-on experience of a wide range of analytical techniques such as atomic absorption spectroscopy and infra-red spectroscopy, which are of great importance in determining both ionic/metal content of pharmaceuticals and simple chemical structures. You will also gain experience of revolutionary protein and DNA separation techniques, as well as Ultra High Performance Liquid Chromatography and Gas Chromatography for separating unknown chemical mixtures.

Facilities for Pharmaceutics and Pharmacology
Our highly technical apparatus will help you gain a better understanding of the effects of drugs on specific receptors located throughout the human body and related physiological effects. In addition to equipment for standard pharmacopoeial tests, such as dissolution testing, friability and disintegration, we also have highly sophisticated test methods. These include rheometry, thermal analysis (differential scanning calorimetry and hot stage microscopy), tests for powder flow, laser diffraction, photon correlation spectroscopy, image analysis and laser confocal microscopy.

We also have equipment for wet granulation, spray drying, capsule filling, tablet making, powder mixing inhalation, film coating and freeze drying.

University Library Services
We’ve got thousands of books and e-books on pharmaceutical and biomedical sciences, with many more titles available through the inter-library loan service. We also subscribe to a comprehensive range of print and electronic journals so you can access the most reliable and up-to-date academic and industry articles. Some of the most important sources for your studies include:
-Embase, which is a complex database covering drug research, pharmacology, pharmaceutics, toxicology, clinical and experimental human medicine, health policy and management, public health, occupational health, environmental health, drug dependence and abuse, psychiatry, forensic medicine and biomedical engineering/instrumentation
-PsycINF, which includes information about the psychological aspects of medicine, psychiatry, nursing, sociology, pharmacology and physiology
-PubMed, which contains life science journals, online books and abstracts that cover fields such as medicine, nursing, dentistry, veterinary medicine and health care
-Science Direct, which offers more than 18,000 full-text journals published by Elsevier
-Web of Science, which covers a broad range of science areas

Employment & careers

On completing this course you will be equipped with the skills and understanding needed for Research & Development roles with employers such as:
-Pharmaceutical and biopharmaceutical companies
-Medical research institutes
-Hospitals

Salaries for senior pharmacologists range from £35,000 to around £80,000. Clinical laboratory scientists earn an average of £36,000. A Masters degree will also enhance opportunities in academic roles or further study towards a PhD.

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Your programme of study

Are you interested in the ever more revolutionary innovations in health and disease treatments, the potential to innovate, research new ways to treat diseases, set up a spin out company as a result of what you find, or work for top names in the industry?

If you want to study course modules within a variety of biotechnology, genetics, immunology, pharmacology, and microbiology areas but you want to choose the modules based on your aspirations this programme will not only give you choice of course modules but also great potential in many high growth and new generation revolutionary areas related to health and medical sciences and applications at the end of the programme.

We are living in an age of technological advances which are catapulting many fields including the health sciences into new ways to research and treat disease and new ways to produce and manufacture drugs and treatments. Biotechnology and pharmacy are enjoying a revolution in which customised health options, diagnosis, smart technologies, rapid prototyping and delivery, genomic sequencing, and molecular medicine are now possible and delivering new benefits to patients and economies. You study the essential areas of molecular medicine but you can choose from wide ranging courses such as Molecular Pharmacology, Drug Metabolism and Toxicology, Biologic Drug Discovery to Host-Pathogen Interactions and much more.

At the end of the programme you can choose your direction which can be anything from research science in private industry, institutes and centres, universities working towards PhD to finding a new method of treatment, rapid upscaling and spin out company possibilities. You may like to view the Scottish Innovation Centres within the health sciences to fully appreciate just how far you can take your expertise after graduation in Scotland and find out about innovation centres in England, Wales, Ireland or internationally.

Courses Listed for the Programme

Semester 1

• Bioinformatics
• Generic Skills
• Basic Skills
• Biotechnology
• Molecular Biotechnology

Optional

• Drug Metabolism and Toxicology
• Molecular Pharmacology
• Introduction to Microbiology
• Introduction to Immunology
• Applied Statistics

Semester 2

• Advanced Bioinformatics and Genomic Sequencing
• Research Tutorials

Optional

• Human Genetics
• Genome Enabled Medicine
• Biologic Drug Discovery
• Drug Development to Evidence Based Medicine
• Host- Pathogen Interactions
• Immunogenetics

Semester 3

• Masters Research Project

Why Study at Aberdeen?

• Study at a top 10 ranked UK medical school, teaching and researching since the Middle Ages with major innovations such as Insulin, MRI scanning and more
• Enjoy an immersive study and research experience at one of the largest medical campuses in Europe with institutes, centres and internationally recognised research staff and students working across medical sciences, pharmacology, nutrition, award winning public health and economics, and more
• Join one of the top 10 universities for spin out company formation in the UK, many of which are from the medical sciences
• Learn from leading research, technological advances and innovation and apply your knowledge to wide ranging career options from private industries, public sectors to patents and spin out company formation.

Where you study

• University of Aberdeen
• Full Time
• 12 Months
• September start

International Student Fees 2017/2018

Find out about fees

*Please be advised that some programmes have different tuition fees from those listed above and that some programmes also have additional costs.

Scholarships

View all funding options on our funding database via the programme page

Living in Aberdeen

Find out more about:

Your Accommodation

• Catered Accommodation
• Self-Catering    

Campus Facilities

• University of Aberdeen: A Global Community
• University of Aberdeen: We are international
• Aberdeen City and Aberdeenshire
• Student Support
• Clubs and Societies
• Sport
• Societies
• Review

Find out more about living in Aberdeen and living costs



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