Pharmacology with Foundation Year

University of Wolverhampton

Pharmacology is the branch of science that deals with the study of drugs and their effects on the body. This course aims to prepare high-quality pharmacology graduates with the skills for pharmaceutical careers and related lab fields.
Why choose this course?
The course aims to produce high quality pharmacology graduates with the generic, subject-specific and transferable knowledge and skills suited to a career in the pharmaceutical industry or other related laboratory based scientific discipline.

The course aims to:

To provide a deep-rooted understanding of the fundamentals principles of chemistry and biology as applicable to pharmacology. Your foundation year is designed to introduce you to studying in a pharmaceutical environment. This will inspire and motive your enthusiasm for the subject, which will prepare you for the rest of the course.

To provide an understanding of normal and abnormal bodily function, the biology of disease (aetiology and epidemiology) and the absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion of medicines (collectively known as pharmacokinetics) and their therapeutic actions. These actions include drug mechanisms of action, interactions, adverse reactions, cautions, contraindications (collectively known as pharmacodynamics), misuse and to gain an insight into the theory of how medications are used.

To support students in the development of intellectual and key interpersonal skills as well as subject knowledge that will equip them for life-long learning. To provide skill sets specific to the pharmacologist, and promote curiosity and enthusiasm for the subject.

What's unique about this course?
Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology
Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities
Interactive learning spaces, including mock dispensary and consultation rooms
What happens on the course?
Level 3 (Foundation Year) will develop your study and analytical skills in preparation for your future study in science and technology, and develop an understanding of the knowledge that underpins the pharmacological and pharmaceutical arenas.

Level 4 offers a thorough introduction to the molecular basis of life as well as the biology, microbiology and human anatomy that are necessary for a more complete understanding of drug action. In addition to this, two complete modules in this year focus on pharmacology. There is also a strong emphasis on the development of useful skills and independent critical thinking which are necessary for your development as a scientist.

Level 5 takes a more detailed look at the process of drug discovery and development, both from an historical and a predictive standpoint. You will learn laboratory based skills that are essential to drug discovery and testing as well as the therapeutic uses of pharmacological agents. This year will also include a detailed look at the pharmacodynamic principles of medicines, cell function and genetics as well as the sites and modes of drug action.