MSc in Pharmacology

University of Oxford

About the course: The aim of the MSc taught course in Pharmacology is to provide students with the necessary theoretical knowledge and practical training that will enable them to integrate post-genomic molecular biology with physiological function and drug discovery. 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, seminars 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 organism 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. Assessment: The short quantitative course, which takes place at the start of the second term, will be examined in a three-hour written paper. The work covered in the five modules is examined in a written paper where students are required to answer three essay questions from five different modules, thus allowing them to specialise in options for revision. At the end of the third term, students submit their dissertation and produce a poster presenting their research project. The latter forms the basis for a final oral examination. Graduate destinations: In the past three years, of the students who graduated from the course, around 60% pursued further postgraduate studies (PhD, MD/PhD and MBA) and 25% found employment in research positions either in academia or industry shortly after graduation. Other destinations include positions as consultants, medical writers, patent lawyers, regulatory affair officers and medical sales representatives.