Master of Pharmacy
(MPharm)
Programme Handbook
2015/16
Disclaimer
Every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this Handbook is
correct at the time of going to press (September 2015). UCL reserves the right to
make amendments to the information contained in this Handbook as a result of
unforeseen events or circumstances beyond UCL's control or if deemed
reasonably necessary by UCL.
This handbook is deemed to be the definitive version of information for all
students in the UCL School of Pharmacy enrolled on this programme of study.
In the event that amendments are made, UCL shall take reasonable steps to notify
students as soon as possible.
11/09/2015 Version 1.
23/11/2015 Version 2. Section 2.10 updated: Study Abroad.
08/01/2016 Version 3. Section 2.10 updated: Study Abroad and section 1.3 Administration
18/01/2016 Version 4. Section 2.7 updated: Programme structure of Year 4
1
2
Table of Contents
Welcome from the MPharm Programme Director ................................ 5
1.
General Information and Key Contacts
1.1
1.2
1.3
2.
Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) Degree
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
2.5
2.6
2.7
2.8
2.9
2.10
3.
Programme Details ..................................................................... 11
Term Dates and Academic Calendar .......................................... 11
Attendance and Absence ........................................................... 11
General Pharmaceutical Council ................................................ 12
Period of Registration ................................................................. 13
Programme Overview ................................................................. 13
Programme Structure ................................................................. 13
Aims of the Programme .............................................................. 15
Learning and Teaching Methods ................................................ 16
Study Abroad ............................................................................. 17
Assessment
3.1
3.2
3.3
3.4
3.5
4.
MPharm Programme Handbook ................................................... 7
Programme Staff .......................................................................... 8

Key Members of Staff ............................................................ 8

Year Coordinators ................................................................. 8

Module Leaders / Deputy Module Leaders ............................ 9
Administration ............................................................................ 10
Introduction ................................................................................ 19
Coursework ................................................................................ 19
Examinations .............................................................................. 19
Academic Regulations ................................................................ 20
Exit Award .................................................................................. 21
Code of Conduct and Fitness to Practise
4.1
4.2
4.3



Introduction ................................................................................ 23
Code of Conduct for Pharmacy Students.................................... 24
Fitness to Practise for Pharmacy Students at UCL ..................... 27
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) Check ............................. 28
Certificate of Good Conduct for students living outside the UK ... 28
Occupational Health Clearance .................................................. 29
3

4.4
5.
Welfare and Support
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
6.
Other Regulatory Bodies............................................................. 29
Excluded Students Database…………………………………… … 29
Personal Advisor ........................................................................ 31
Programme Team ...................................................................... 31
English Language Classes ......................................................... 31
Plagiarism Support ..................................................................... 32
Pre-registration and Careers Advice
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
Introduction ................................................................................ 33
Careers Advice ........................................................................... 33
Careers Fair and Information ...................................................... 33
UCL Careers Service.................................................................. 34
University of London Careers Group .......................................... 34
Appendix
Module Descriptions .............................................................................. 35

MPharm Year 1 .......................................................................... 37

MPharm Year 2 .......................................................................... 39

MPharm Year 3 .......................................................................... 41

MPharm Year 4 .......................................................................... 43
4
Welcome from the Programme Director
Welcome to the UCL School of Pharmacy and congratulations on gaining a place here to study
pharmacy. You are commencing your professional education at a particularly exciting time for
pharmacy and you will be in the vanguard of new developments and models of professional
practice. Now more than ever the contribution pharmacists can make to developing medicines,
the clinical management of patients and the health of the public at large is recognised.
The School has been committed to leading in education, research and policy development in
pharmacy since it was established in 1842 and all members of the School’s staff are committed
to your education and to supporting you in achieving your ambition to become a leading
pharmacist in the profession.
Over the next four years we will show you how the pharmacists’ unique understanding of
medicines translates into the many career options available to you. These range from the
discovery and development of medicines in the pharmaceutical and life-science industries
through to patient-facing clinical roles in hospital, primary care and community sectors.
I wish you good luck with your studies and I look forward to seeing you around the School.
Dr Rebecca Lever
Programme Director
Master of Pharmacy (MPharm)
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6
1. General Information and Key Contacts
1.1
MPHARM PROGRAMME HANDBOOK
This Programme Handbook provides an introduction to the programme and contains the key
information you need about the programme of study. Amongst other things, this handbook
covers the curriculum, teaching and learning, administrative procedures, key personnel and
assessment.
This handbook should be read in conjunction with the School Student Handbook, which provides
information about School staff, academic regulations and policies and administrative procedures.
The Handbook is relevant to you throughout your studies. There will inevitably be some changes
during your time with us, possibly in relation to the teaching staff, programme content and
assessment patterns and we shall keep you informed of any important changes. However, you
should make sure that you keep up to date by reading our communications, checking the notice
boards, reading your emails and browsing Moodle and the School and UCL websites.
More detailed information on regulations, examinations, and procedures are available on the
UCL website at the following link: www.ucl.ac.uk/current-students. You can also find important
information on the School website here: www.ucl.ac.uk/pharmacy/current-students. Students are
expected to be fully aware of procedures and regulations but, if in any doubt, please enquire at
the Student and Academic Support Office (known as the School Office – SASO).
We hope you find this handbook useful. It is revised every year to include new information and to
make it easier to use. If you have any comments about the handbook or suggestions for
improving the information provided, please forward your comments to the School Office (SASO)
(email sop.saso@ucl.ac.uk).
7
1.2
PROGRAMME STAFF
Key Members of Staff
Name
Dr Rebecca Lever
Dr John Malkinson
Mrs Louise Brown
Dr Brian Pearce
Dr Susan Barker
Prof Ian Bates
Dr Gary Parkinson
Role
Programme Director
Deputy Programme Director
Senior Advisor
Deputy Senior Advisor
Chair of the MPharm Examinations
Board
Clinical Placements Coordinator
Study Abroad Tutor
Email
rebecca.lever@ucl.ac.uk
j.malkinson@ucl.ac.uk
lawrencia.brown@ucl.ac.uk
b.pearce@ucl.ac.uk
susan.anne.barker@ucl.ac.uk
i.bates@ucl.ac.uk
gary.parkinson@ucl.ac.uk
Year Coordinators
Each year of the MPharm Programme is overseen by a Year Coordinator.
Year
1
2
3
4
Year Coordinator
Dr Brian Pearce
Dr John Malkinson
Dr Andy Wilderspin
Dr Susan Barker
Email
b.pearce@ucl.ac.uk
j.malkinson@ucl.ac.uk
a.wilderspin@ucl.ac.uk
susan.anne.barker@ucl.ac.uk
8
Module Leaders / Deputy Module Leaders
The Module Leader is responsible the management and teaching of the module. The name of
the Module Leader is followed by the Deputy Module Leader (in brackets). All modules on the
MPharm are worth 1 Course Unit (30 credits, 15 ECTS), except the project in year 4 which is
worth 2 Course Units (60 credits, 30 ECTS).
Year 1
Code
PHAY1001
Title
The Role of the Pharmacist in Health Care
PHAY1002
Chemistry of Medicines
PHAY1003
PHAY1004
Body Systems and Therapeutics 1: Underpinning
principles of cell and system function and drug action
Making Safe and Effective Medicines
Year 2
Code
PHAY2001
Title
Clinical and Professional Considerations
PHAY2002
Medicines from the Bench to the Clinic
PHAY2003
Body Systems and Therapeutics 2: Cardiovascular,
Renal and Endocrine systems
Body Systems and Therapeutics 3: Central nervous
system, gastro-intestinal system, liver, skin and eye
PHAY2004
Year 3
Code
PHAY3101
PHAY3102
PHAY3103
PHAY3104
Title
Communicating Science and Practice
Body Systems and Therapeutics 4: Immunology,
inflammation, respiratory diseases, infectious
diseases and cancer
Future Design, Delivery and Administration of
Medicines
Options
9
Module Leader/Deputy
Mrs Louise Brown
Ms Maaya Modha
Dr John Malkinson
Dr Geoff Wells
Dr Mike Munday
Dr Brian Pearce
Prof Kevin Taylor
Dr Sudax Murdan
Module Leader/Deputy
Ms Oksana Pyzik
Mrs Louise Brown
Dr Stephen Hilton
Dr Susan Barker
Dr Andy Constanti
Prof Kirsten Harvey
Dr Afia Ali
Dr Audrey Mercer
Module Leader/Deputy
Ms Terry Ng
Mrs Louise Brown
Dr Paul Stapleton
Dr Geoff Wells
Prof Steve Brocchini
Dr Satyanarayana
Somavarapu
Dr Andy Wilderspin
Dr Li Wei
Year 4
Code
PHAYMX98
Title
Research Project
PHAYM101
Preparation for Professional Practice
PHAYM102
Advancement of Practice Through Science
1.3
Module Leader/Deputy
Dr Andy Wilderspin
Dr Gary Parkinson
Ms Nadia Bukhari
Mrs Louise Brown
Prof Duncan Craig
TBC
ADMINISTRATION
Student and Academic Support Office (also known as School Office – SASO)
The School Office (SASO) is the main administrative hub for your programme of study. You may
also need to visit the UCL Student Centre on some occasions. Information about the UCL
Student Centre can be found here: www.ucl.ac.uk/current-students/student-centre
Your main administrative point of contact during the four years of the programme will be the
Programme Administrator (MPharm). Other administrative points of contact are listed in the table
below:
Name
Miss Kirsty Martin
Ms Elizabeth Mead
Ms Helen Crane
Mr Joe Collins
Ms Ania Gasiorek
Mr Elias Skourletos
Ms Susan Smyth
Miss Bisi Akinola
Mr Victor Diran
Role
Student &Academic Support Manager
Admissions & Student Services Manager
Assessment & Programmes Manager
Programme Administrator (MPharm)
Placements Administrator (Study Abroad)
Examinations & Assessment Administrator
Timetabling & Teaching Administrator
Programmes Administrator (Postgraduate)
Research & Quality Administrator (PhD)
Opening Hours and Contact Information
Hours:
Location:
Tel:
E-mail:
09.00 to 17.00 (Monday-Friday)
Room G11, Brunswick Square
+44 (0) 20 7753 5831
sop.saso@ucl.ac.uk
END OF SECTION 1
10
Email
kirsty.martin@ucl.ac.uk
elizabeth.mead@ucl.ac.uk
h.crane@ucl.ac.uk
joe.collins@ucl.ac.uk
a.gasiorek@ucl.ac.uk
e.skourletos@ucl.ac.uk
s.smyth@ucl.ac.uk
b.akinola@ucl.ac.uk
v.diran@ucl.ac.uk
2. Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) Degree
2.1
PROGRAMME DETAILS
Institution:
UCL School of Pharmacy
Degree:
Master of Pharmacy (MPharm)
Awarded by:
University College London
Length and mode:
4 years full-time
Professional accreditation:
Accredited in April 2013 by the General
Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) for a period of 6
years.
2.2
TERM DATES AND ACADEMIC CALENDAR
Term dates and the Academic Calendar for the MPharm are available at the following link:
www.ucl.ac.uk/staff/term-dates. Students must ensure that they are available to attend College
during these dates and should not arrange holiday or other events which would take them away
from their study and assessment.
The academic year will begin on the 28 September 2015 and will end on 10 June 2016, with
term starting the following year on 26 September 2016. Please note that the School’s
examination sessions are held in February and in May of each academic year. If eligible, re-sit
examinations will be held in late August or early September.
2.3
ATTENDANCE AND ABSENCE
Students must commit themselves to a full working week which includes timetabled classes,
directed study time and private revision. Classes may be scheduled from 9:00am to 6:00pm on
Monday to Friday. The timetable will include certain free blocks of time during which students are
expected to work on problems or other assignments, either alone or in small groups here at the
School.
UCL regulations state that the minimum attendance for ‘satisfactory performance’ is 70%. In
addition, all practicals, workshops and placements are compulsory for the MPharm. Should you
11
fail to engage in your module to a level deemed adequate by your tutors you may be barred from
entering the assessment. Tutors regard satisfactory attendance at and behaviour in lectures,
seminars, tutorials and other classes as obligatory and attendance registers will be taken.
UCL has a formal policy which sets out when students must notify the School if they are absent
from class. Full details of this policy can be found in the Student Handbook.
2.4
GENERAL PHARMACEUTICAL COUNCIL
The MPharm programme is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). Their
website can be found at the following link: www.pharmacyregulation.org/
Pharmacy is a healthcare profession requiring a high level of education and training. To qualify
as a pharmacist takes a minimum of five years and includes the following steps:

Successful completion of a GPhC accredited Master of Pharmacy Degree (MPharm), which
is a full-time, four-year course.

Successful completion of one year’s pre-registration training, as a period of paid
employment in a GPhC-approved pharmacy setting, during which trainees are required to
build up a portfolio of evidence and demonstrate their competence whilst being observed at
work.

Successful completion of the GPhC’s registration exam at the end of the pre-registration
year.

Meeting the Fitness to Practise requirements for registration as a pharmacist.
Only after completing these steps can you apply for registration with the GPhC as a pharmacist.
As part of the registration process, applicants have to make a health declaration and character
checks are carried out. (www.pharmacyregulation.org/education/pharmacist-education)
Please note that due to the strong competition for pre-registration placements, the School
of Pharmacy cannot guarantee that all graduates will be able to obtain a placement. It is
the responsibility of the student to apply for his/her pre-registration training placement.
However, advice and support is provided by Mrs Nadia Bukhari (email:
n.bukhari@ucl.ac.uk).
12
2.5
PERIOD OF REGISTRATION
The minimum period of registration for the MPharm at the UCL School of Pharmacy is 4 years.
The General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) has a registration requirement of 8 calendar years
from the start of the period of study to become a pharmacist. This includes the successful
completion of the MPharm degree, the pre-registration training and the registration examination,
as well as making an application to register as a pharmacist as follows:

MPharm + Pre-registration training + Registration examination = 8 years maximum
The GPhC will consider variations to this time limit to take account of periods of illness,
compassionate leave, maternity/paternity leave, part-time study etc. Students who transfer
between MPharm degrees at different institutions are still covered by the 8 year rule. The sole
exception is when a student restarts the MPharm from Year 1 in the same School or a different
one.
Academic failure will not be accepted for this purpose nor will non-obligatory absences.
All requests for the maximum period to be varied must be submitted in writing to the
GPhC and must be evidence-based.
2.6
PROGRAMME OVERVIEW
The UCL Academic Year lasts for 31 weeks beginning in September and ending in June. The
first week is induction week for new first year students and second, third and fourth year
students are not normally required to attend during this week. The year is structured into three
academic terms: autumn, spring and summer.
A chart showing how the MPharm programme is structured can be found on the next page.
Detailed module outlines will be distributed at the start of each year and will also be available on
the relevant Moodle sites.
2.7
PROGRAMME STRUCTURE
Students must pass all modules in each year of the MPharm programme in order to progress to
the next year. Students cannot trail failed modules into the following year. Students who are
unable to complete assessments due to extenuating circumstances may have to interrupt their
studies in order to complete outstanding assessments.
The Programme Structure is outlined on the following page:
13
Year
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
Period
Sep – Jun
Sep – Jun
Sep – Jun
Sep – Jun
Module
PHAY1001
PHAY1002
PHAY1003
PHAY1004
The Role of the Pharmacist in Health Care
Chemistry of Medicines
Body Systems and Therapeutics 1
Making Safe and Effective Medicines
Assessment:
Coursework: Specific items of coursework as detailed in the module
outline.
Examinations: All modules are examined in May/June.
PHAY2001 Clinical and Professional Considerations
PHAY2002 Medicines from the Bench to the Clinic
PHAY2003 Body Systems and Therapeutics 2
PHAY2004 Body Systems and Therapeutics 3
Assessment:
Coursework: Specific items of coursework as detailed in the module
outline.
Examinations: All modules are examined in May/June.
PHAY3101 Communicating Science and Practice
PHAY3102 Body Systems and Therapeutics 4
PHAY3103 Future Design, Delivery & Administration of Medicines
PHAY3104 Options
Assessment:
Coursework: Specific items of coursework as detailed in the module
outline.
Examinations: All modules are examined in May/June.
PHAYM101 Preparation for Professional Practice
PHAYM102 Advancement of Practice Through Science
Assessment:
Coursework: Specific items of coursework as detailed in the module
outline.
Examinations: These two modules are examined in May/June.
Nov – Feb
PHAYMX98 Research Projects
Assessment:
Research Paper; Portfolio, Poster presentation, Wiki
(submitted and assessed in term 2).
14
2.8
AIMS OF THE PROGRAMME
The aim of the MPharm programme is to produce the best quality pharmacy graduates possible.
Students will graduate as confident and competent professionals committed to lifelong
educational development and equipped to enter the pre-registration year and qualify as
registered pharmacists after the appropriate pre-registration training. These graduates will have
the requisite scientific and clinical knowledge in order to be able to enter into any branch of the
pharmacy profession and/or to undertake further study.
The MPharm programme will inculcate the students with the attitudes expected of a professional
pharmacist, putting patients' welfare at the centre of their work. The course is taught in an
integrated manner, allowing the students to see the inter-relationships between the science and
the practice of pharmacy and how both are required for the development of high quality
medicines and healthcare provision. It is the intention that students make steady progress
through the degree, provided that the students engage with the course and participate fully in all
learning exercises.
As well as subject-specific knowledge, skills and competencies, students will have developed
important skills and competencies to carry forward into professional practice including
independence in:
Critical and Rational Thinking: the ability to interpret and scientifically evaluate facts and data,
to differentiate between facts and opinion, and to integrate knowledge across a broad range of
scientific disciplines and professional practice.
Problem Solving: the ability to define a problem in terms of its salient features and factors, to
identify sources of relevant information, and to use learned principles and concepts in novel
situations like those routinely encountered in professional practice.
Evaluation of Research: the ability to evaluate research findings and integrate the outcomes
with existing knowledge. The ability to integrate knowledge across a broad range of disciplines
and to interpret and discuss material in the broad pharmaceutical context is essential for an
evidence based approach to professional practice.
Professionalism: the adherence to ethical principles and acceptance of personal responsibility,
whether as an innovator of scientific developments or as a provider of health care, and the
commitment to career-long learning together with personal development of practical, cognitive
and social skills. The development of a professional attitude, embracing ethical principles and
responsibilities.
Communication: the development of oral and written communication skills that are appropriate
to the different expectations and requirements of other health care professionals as well as
patients and clients.
15
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2.9
LEARNING AND TEACHING METHODS
A range of learning and teaching methods are utilised throughout the course.
Lectures
Lectures are used to provide new information and to allow you to benefit from the lecturers'
knowledge and experience of the subject. Lecture hand-outs will be available on Moodle. It is
well known that attendance at lectures has a positive effect on assessment results (and the
contrary is also true) so you are recommended to attend all lectures. Catching up on a missed
lecture takes far more time than actually going to it!
Practical Work
Practical work, which is based in the laboratory, is designed to help you learn practical skills and
techniques relevant to pharmacy, explore concepts taught in the lectures and to acquire an
understanding of the process of scientific enquiry. You will be required to analyse your own data
and to prepare practical reports.
Workshops
Workshops are smaller classes where you can work through the concepts taught in lectures and
apply them in practice. It is an opportunity for you to demonstrate your understanding of these
concepts and to obtain help if required.
Small Group Work
Parts of the programme use a problem-based approach to learning using small groups. Each
group of students is given a problem and must identify the knowledge and information needed to
understand the nature of the problem. You will learn to work as part of a team, undertaking
research and presenting your findings, in both oral and written forms.
Clinical Placements
Before going on a clinical placement, you will be required to sign a patient confidentiality
agreement and undergo DBS and OH checking. When on a placement, you will be expected to
comply with all requirements of the placement hosts regarding dress code, patient confidentiality
and professional behaviour.
Throughout the course, clinical placements occur in both hospital and community settings,
supervised by clinical and community specialists. The aim is to develop an understanding of
modern patient-focussed pharmacy practice and to apply problem-solving skills and learned
knowledge to a variety of patient and health related problems typically encountered in practice
settings.
17
Students are introduced during the first year to leading edge community pharmacy practice at
the Green Light Pharmacy Education Centre. This is a custom-built facility with tutorial rooms
equipped with CCTV where students are able to watch, and with tutor support, participate in
some of the patient-focused care services which are being provided under the new NHS contract
for community pharmacies. These sessions continue, and become more complex, as students
progress through the course.
The School has strong links with many London teaching hospitals and students gain an
introduction to hospital practice through placements in years 3 and 4 of the course.
Directed Study
You are expected to spend some time reading through your lecture notes and other reference
sources (e.g. textbooks), as directed by your lecturers. You will be expected to prepare for
laboratory classes and placements, and to write reports on these.
Independent study
Students are expected to do extra independent study to that described above. This includes
preparation and revision for assessments and completion of your personal portfolio.
2.10
STUDY ABROAD
The MPharm programme offers students the opportunity to undertake their fourth year research
project at one of our partner universities abroad, either via Erasmus+ programme (Europe) or
our Student Exchange (worldwide) scheme.
Eligibility to undertake a Study Abroad placement is based on satisfactory academic
performance (such as maintaining at least 2:1 average before departure) and the
appropriateness of the proposed placement to the aims and objectives of the MPharm
programme. Students are invited to apply for a Study Abroad placement during the third year.
Students selected for the Study Abroad programme are required to attend special preparation
sessions organised by central UCL (Study Abroad Team) and by the School of Pharmacy prior
to their departure. Successful applicants will also be required to follow a separate application
procedure at the allocated host institutions.
Students on projects abroad are allocated a project advisor at the UCL School of Pharmacy, with
whom they must keep in contact while they are away and once they return.
More information about our Study Abroad programme, including a list of our partnerships and
placement options, can be found on the School website (please note the availability of these
placements may vary from year to year): https://www.ucl.ac.uk/pharmacy/currentstudents/exchange/outgoing.
18
Study Abroad Grants
The placements are not paid, and students must cover their own visa, accommodation,
transportation and other living costs. However, all students on Study Abroad projects are entitled
to grants:
 Erasmus students will receive a special EU grant, which is administered by the UCL
Study Abroad Team.
 Exchange (non-Erasmus) students will receive a small supplemental grant paid through
the School of Pharmacy. Additional financial help might be available through the UCL
Financial Assistance Fund (FAF).
The School of Pharmacy Study Abroad grants and the EU Erasmus grants are not meanstested.
END OF SECTION 2
19
3. Assessment
3.1
INTRODUCTION
Assessment on the MPharm degree programme is through a mixture of coursework and written
examinations at the end of each module (except for the Research Project which is assessed by
coursework only). The assessment requirements for each module will be set out in the module
outline available on the relevant Moodle site. Students who are unclear about the assessment
requirements for any course should clarify these with the module leader prior to taking the
assessment.
3.2
COURSEWORK
The coursework mark is derived from a series of assignments which assess your ability to
demonstrate appropriate knowledge, skills and abilities. Coursework varies from module to
module and details of the coursework requirements will be found in the module outlines issued at
the start of the module and available on Moodle.
Coursework Submission
All assignments must be submitted by the published deadline. Some assessments will be
submitted electronically via Moodle and others will be submitted in hard copy via the School
Office (SASO). All students are required to submit coursework by the published deadline
or a penalty will be imposed. Please see the information in the Student Handbook about the
submission process for coursework and the penalties that will be imposed for late and nonsubmission of coursework.
3.3
EXAMINATIONS
Written examinations take place at the end of year in the summer term. Students who fail to pass
(a) module(s) in May/June will be required to resit the appropriate assessment(s) at the next
available opportunity which is normally late August/early September. Further details about
examinations will be provided in the detailed module outline issued at the start of the academic
year and available on Moodle.
In general:

Exams are normally closed book, though a calculator or BNF (British National Formulary) is
permitted in some exams.
20


3.4
Exams will include a mixture of question types, designed to test subject knowledge and
application of this knowledge.
Sample examination papers will be posted on Moodle. However, model answers will not be
provided. A limited range of previous exam papers will be available.
ACADEMIC REGULATIONS
In addition to the UCL Academic Regulations (www.ucl.ac.uk/srs/academic-regulations), there
are Programme Regulations for the MPharm degree. These are found on the School of
Pharmacy web site under Current Students/Student Information/Regulations and Policies at the
following link: www.ucl.ac.uk/pharmacy/current-students/student-information/regulations.
Below is a summary of the main requirements of the MPharm Programme Regulations.
However, students must familiarise themselves with the detailed Programme Regulations and
UCL Academic Regulations prior to taking any assessments.

Students must pass ALL modules in each year in order to progress to the next year of the
programme and ultimately be awarded the MPharm degree.

Within a module, students must pass ALL specified elements of assessment
independently.

The overall minimum pass mark for most modules is 40%. However, some modules
require a higher pass mark of 50%. This information can be found in the module outlines
issued at the start of each module.

Students must enter for all assessments at the first available opportunity except where
they deem themselves not "fit to sit" due to extenuating circumstances and provide
appropriate supporting evidence which is accepted by the Extenuating Circumstances
Panel and the MPharm Board of Examiners.

Where a student is unable to complete an assessment due to extenuating circumstances
(first sit) or academic failure (resit), he/she will be required to enter for the assessment at
the next available opportunity, which is normally at the end of August/start of September. If
a student is unable to complete the assessment in August/September due to extenuating
circumstances accepted by the Board, he/she will have to take a year out and complete
and pass the assessment at the next available opportunity (May/June the following year),
before being able to progress to the next year of the MPharm.

Students are only permitted two attempts to pass an assessment, with the second
attempt being allowed only where the first attempt resulted in failure. Students may not
resit a passed assessment in order to get a higher mark. Where students pass at resit,
21
then the "carry-forward" mark, used for degree classification calculations, is the minimum
pass mark (40 or 50 % as appropriate), not the actual obtained mark.

The weighing of the final mark for the degree is based on the calculation outlined below.
Although the first year of the degree does not contribute to the final degree mark, students
have to complete and pass all assessments before they can progress to Year 2 of the
programme. Students cannot trail incomplete assessments into the next year:




3.5
Year 1 weighting = 0
Year 2 weighting = 20%
Year 3 weighting = 30%
Year 4 weighting = 50%
EXIT AWARD
An Exit Award is made where a student is unable to complete the programme for which they
were enrolled, but have completed and passed all modules to be awarded a lower level
qualification. Exit Awards are not available for students who wish to leave at the end of the first
or second years of the MPharm programme and are only available to students who successfully
complete the first three years of the MPharm programme. These students will be eligible for the
award of BSc Pharmaceutical Studies.
The requirements are as follows:
Year 1 (120 credits at level 4 (4 units)
Year 2 (120 credits at Level 5) (4 units)
Year 3 (120 credits at level 6) (4 units)
The degree will be weighted as follows:
Year 1 10% weighting of the final average mark for the year plus
Year 2 30% weighting of the final average mark for the year plus
Year 3 60% weighting of the final average mark for the year
Normal Classification rules apply.
END OF SECTION 3
22
23
4. Code of Conduct and Fitness to Practise
4.1
INTRODUCTION
The MPharm programme is preparing you to enter the pharmacy profession. Pharmacy is a
registered healthcare profession and carries both privileges and responsibilities. As a pharmacy
student you must demonstrate you are able to exercise those privileges and bear those
responsibilities.
Pharmacists in Great Britain must register with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and
must abide by its Standards of conduct, ethics and performance (pharmacists in Northern Ireland
register with the Pharmaceutical Society of Northern Ireland and must abide by its Code of
Ethics). When you become a pharmacist, these standards will apply to you. They are based on
seven principles which are central to the way you conduct yourself as a professional pharmacist.
All the principles are equally important.
The Code of Conduct for Pharmacy Students is based on the same seven principles as those in
the GPhC’s Standards of conduct, ethics and performance. The Code of Conduct for Pharmacy
Students explains how the seven principles apply to you as a student and will help you to
develop your understanding of what it is to be a pharmacist. The Code of Conduct for Pharmacy
Students applies to you from the first day of your degree programme to the day you graduate
and applies both on and off campus. Remember that wherever you are, you are representing
the profession of pharmacy and your university. If you fail to abide by the Code of
Conduct for Pharmacy Students you may be subject to the School’s disciplinary and/or
Fitness to Practise procedures.
The Code of Conduct for Pharmacy Students has been endorsed by the Pharmacy Schools
Council (PhSC) and the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA).
In addition to the Code of Conduct for Pharmacy Students UCL has a general code of conduct
for all students. This can be found on the website here: www.ucl.ac.uk/currentstudents/guidelines/code_of_conduct
24
4.2
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR PHARMACY STUDENTS
The Code of Conduct for Pharmacy Students can be downloaded from the GPhC website or via
the School website here: www.ucl.ac.uk/pharmacy/current-students/studentinformation/regulations. We have reproduced the key points of the code here. However, you
should download and read the full version at the link above.
You will be expected to sign a declaration that you have read and understood the Code of
Conduct for Pharmacy Students and agree to abide by it throughout your study here.
The Seven Principles
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
Make patients your first concern
Use your professional judgement in the interests of patients and the public
Show respect for others
Encourage patients and the public to participate in decisions about their care
Develop your professional knowledge and competence
Be honest and trustworthy
Take responsibility for your working practices
1.
Make patients your first concern
The health, wellbeing and safety of patients must be your main concern. To support this, you will
learn about the design and development of medicines and their safe and effective use. Even
when you are not in direct contact with patients, you will be developing values, attitudes,
knowledge and skills that you will use as a pharmacist.
As a student you must:
1.1
1.3
always bear in mind your future role as a pharmacist when studying: this applies equally to
the science elements of the course as to pharmacy practice
apply your learning to ensure you know how to develop and use medicines for the
maximum benefit of patients
promote the health of patients
2.
Use your professional judgement in the interests of patients and the public
1.2
You will need to use professional judgement at all times: your course is designed to help you
understand what this means.
25
As a student you must:
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.4
consider and act in the best interests of patients and the public
ensure your beliefs do not compromise patient care
make sure your judgement is not influenced by personal interests
be prepared to challenge the judgement of others if you have reason to believe that their
decisions could compromise safety or care
3.
Show respect for others
Demonstrating respect for the dignity, views and rights of others is fundamental in forming and
maintaining appropriate professional relationships with patients, carers, colleagues and other
individuals with whom you come into contact.
As a student you must:
3.1
3.5
3.6
recognise diversity and respect the cultural differences, values and beliefs of others,
including students and staff
treat others politely, with consideration and with respect
listen to, and respect, others’ opinions and be non-judgemental in your attitudes toward
them
maintain proper professional boundaries in the relationships you have with others,
especially with vulnerable adults and children
recognise and respect the rights of patients
respect patient confidentiality and consent, but disclose relevant information as required
4.
Encourage patients and the public to participate in decisions about their care
3.2
3.3
3.4
Patients and the public have the right to be involved in decisions about their treatment and care.
Pharmacists must respect this right and help patients to take part in decisions which affect their
health and wellbeing.
As a student you must:
4.1
4.2
4.3
learn how to listen to patients and their carers and communicate effectively with them in a
way they can understand
learn how to give patients information and advice so they can take part in decisions about
their care, including recognising their right to refuse care
learn how to work in partnership with patients, their carers and others to manage a
patient’s treatment and care
26
5.
Develop your professional knowledge and competence
At all stages of your pharmacy career you must take responsibility for ensuring your knowledge
and skills are up-to-date and that you maintain your competence.
As a student you must:
5.1
5.2
5.3
5.4
5.5
6.
reflect on and develop your professional knowledge and competence throughout your
course
recognise and stay within the limits of your competence
make rational and informed decisions
engage constructively with assessments
ensure you are aware of the continuing professional development requirements for
pharmacists
Be honest and trustworthy
The public trust healthcare professionals, and at all times pharmacists must justify that trust.
As a student you must:
6.1
6.2
6.3
6.4
6.5
6.6
6.7
6.8
7.
act with honesty and integrity
honour your commitments and take responsibility for your work
not plagiarise the work of others
use research and laboratory data honestly and ethically, seeking permission to use data as
required
supply accurate information in response to lawful requests and update that information as
necessary
respond honestly, openly and courteously to complaints and criticisms concerning yourself
or others
cooperate with formal investigations about you or others
abide by the rules and regulations of your university and other organisations linked to your
studies
Take responsibility for your working practices
Pharmacists, like all healthcare professionals, must take responsibility for their work.
As a student you must:
7.1
7.2
7.3
obey the law and comply with this Code of Conduct
take responsibility for your learning and your actions and work constructively with others
take responsibility for your own health, especially if it may impact negatively on other
people
27
7.4
7.5
7.6
7.7
7.8
7.9
7.10
7.11
7.12
4.3
tell your university if there is anything that could impair your ability to study
ask for help when you need it and respond appropriately
plan and use your time effectively
follow dress codes
attend classes and conduct yourself appropriately
be punctual
be contactable
ensure you have adequate English language skills
abide by health and safety requirements
FITNESS TO PRACTISE FOR PHARMACY STUDENTS AT UCL
All Pharmacy Schools are required to have in place Fitness to Practise procedures to cover all
pharmacy students. Pharmacy is a professional programme and pharmacy students are
expected to behave in a professional and responsible manner. Any behaviour or health
condition that could put patients, the public, students, staff or yourself at risk could be
considered a Fitness to Practise issue and could affect your ability to continue on the
MPharm degree or to register as a pre-registration student or as a pharmacist with the
GPhC.
The UCL School of Life and Medical Sciences (SLMS) has guidance on Fitness to Practise and
a detailed procedure for dealing with breaches of Fitness to Practise on professional
programmes. These can be found on the website here:
www.ucl.ac.uk/slms/education/education-accord/ftp.
The main sections you need to refer to are:


Fitness to Practise Guide for students on professional programmes in SLMS.
Fitness to Practise Procedure for students on professional programmes in SLMS.
These university-based Fitness to Practise regulations are not adjudicated by the GPhC and it is
possible that the GPhC may not allow a person to register as a pharmacist even though they
have been allowed to graduate with an MPharm degree.
Students are already covered by, and are expected to comply with, the GPhC’s Code of Conduct
for Pharmacy Students. You should read it carefully and consider the consequences as failure to
comply with the Code of Conduct may result in you being referred to UCL’s disciplinary or
Fitness to Practise procedures. This can result in sanctions imposed against you up to and
including dismissal from the MPharm degree. The GPhC may be notified of any action taken
against you and this could affect your ability to register as a pre-registration student or as a
pharmacist.
28
All students at the UCL School of Pharmacy are required to undertake a Disclosure and Barring
Service (DBS) enhanced check and will also need to complete an Occupational Health
questionnaire for which there may be a charge. If you declare a criminal record or an issue with
your health, we will investigate further and make a decision as to whether this constitutes a
Fitness to Practise issue. However, certain types of criminal offence and some health conditions
may deem you unfit to practise as a pharmacy student and may result in you having to leave the
programme.
During your time on the MPharm degree programme, you must tell us if you receive a
criminal record or a caution, or if you develop a health condition. We will also require you
to sign a declaration at the beginning of years 2, 3 and 4 to let us know whether anything
has changed since your last declaration. We will do what we can to offer help, advice and
support, but at the same time we are under an obligation to consider Fitness to Practise issues.
Please remember that patient and public safety is paramount at all times.
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check
The check usually takes a few weeks to complete and will show any current or spent criminal
conviction or caution that has not been filtered from your record (some minor convictions may be
removed from your record after a certain period of time. For more information, please see
www.gov.uk/government/publications/dbs-filtering-guidance). You will receive a copy of the
report and may need to bring this in to the School of Pharmacy for us to check. Please keep the
report safe for your own records. If we receive information about a criminal record, this will be
shown to the Associate Director (Education) who will make a decision about whether the offence
is deemed serious enough to convene a Fitness to Practise panel. Any information we receive
regarding criminal records will be held securely in the Student and Academic Support Office and
will be shared only with staff directly involved in handling Fitness to Practise matters. In practise,
this will normally be members of the SASO team, the Associate Director (Education) and, if
necessary, administrators and members of the School of Health and Life Sciences Fitness to
Practise panel. Outcomes from Fitness to Practise panels may be communicated to the GPhC.
When you complete your DBS check, you may be asked whether you wish to register with the
DBS update service. This costs £13 per year and allows you to obtain an updated DBS
certificate quickly should you need it for work, study or hospital placement. It is not a UCL
requirement that you register for this service, but may find it useful later in your pharmacy career.
Certificate of Good Conduct for students living outside the UK
If you normally live outside the UK you will also be required to bring along a Certificate of Good
Conduct from your home country when you first register as a pharmacy student as part of our
Fitness to Practise checks. This certificate should show whether or not you have a criminal
record in that country. It can take some time to obtain this certificate and you may need to apply
in person so if you have not already done so, please do this straight away. Usually these are
obtained through a simple application procedure to the local police force, but the process varies
29
from country to country. Sometimes they are also referred to as police certificates or police
clearance certificates. For further information on how to apply, please see
www.gov.uk/government/publications/criminal-records-checks-for-overseas-applicants.
If you are already in the UK, you should contact your embassy to find out how to get the
certificate. Students will be responsible for any fee that may be required to obtain a Certificate of
Good Conduct.
Occupational Health Clearance
If any health issues are flagged by the questionnaire, you may need to see an occupational
health officer for a more formal assessment. The UCL School of Pharmacy can accommodate a
vast range of health issues and would not normally expect these to affect your ability to become
a pharmacist. We may wish to discuss health problems or conditions with you as we may need
to make accommodations for you in the way that we teach you, or in the way that you take
exams. Health issues only become Fitness to Practise issues if your condition, or the way in
which you manage your condition, could make you a danger to the public, patients, staff or
students, or to yourself. In this case we would want to work with you to offer help and support.
However, in exceptional circumstances, the School may need to instigate Fitness to Practise
procedures which may result in you being required to leave the degree programme.
In order to meet NHS requirements for student placements, we also need you to complete an
occupational health assessment and to ensure that your vaccination record is up-to-date. UCL
may charge you for this service. If you are unable, for medical reasons, to be vaccinated against
certain diseases, you should discuss this with the Occupational Health Service. The School of
Pharmacy will endeavour to make alternative arrangements to your teaching and assessment in
cases such as this, but it may be that you will not be able to participate in hospital placements.
Other Regulatory Bodies
You must also tell us if you have ever received a judgement against you by any other regulatory
body, such as, but not limited to, the General Medical Council or the Nursing and Midwifery
Council.
4.4
EXCLUDED STUDENTS DATABASE
From 2015/16, The Pharmacy Schools Council (PhSC), Medical Schools Council (MSC) and
Dental Schools Council (DSC) will be sharing fitness to practise information between schools in
order to protect the public from risk. Information about students who have been through a fitness
to practise hearing and been found unfit to practise will be held and may be shared between UK
schools and other EU schools. Information about students who have been found unfit to practise
but have left the school voluntarily may be shared between UK schools provided that a formal
30
fitness to practise hearing has taken place and a judgement recorded, with the student notified
and given fair opportunity to participate at each stage of the process.
As part of our fitness to practise processes, we will ask you to complete a consent form for your
data to be stored in this way if a fitness to practise outcome is made against you in the future.
You should also be aware that if we find out that you have been excluded from any other
Pharmacy School, Medical School or Dental School or have a finding against you from any other
medical body, you may be asked to leave the MPharm programme at UCL.
If you have any questions regarding this, or any other fitness to practice issue, then please
contact Elizabeth Mead, Admissions and Student Services Manager at the UCL School of
Pharmacy, on elizabeth.mead@ucl.ac.uk or by telephone on +44 (0)20 7753 5925.
END OF SECTION 4
31
5. Welfare and Support
5.1
PERSONAL ADVISOR
Students are assigned to a member of academic staff who serves as their Personal Advisor
throughout the four years of the programme. Personal Advisors meet with their advisees both
individually and as advisee groups regularly during the four years of the MPharm course.
The Personal Advisor (also known as Personal Tutor at UCL) should be the first point of contact
with students who wish to discuss any aspect of their time at university. In addition, the sessions
will help students with general study skills and provide feedback to support their learning.
Regular meetings will cement the advisee-advisor relationship; this will be particularly useful
later in the programme when students require references for summer placements or for their preregistration training position.
Contact Details
Contact details are available on the School website: www.ucl.ac.uk/pharmacy/people
5.2
PROGRAMME TEAM
The Programme Team comprises all of the academic staff who teach on the MPharm
programme. The Programme is led by the Programme Director who is supported by the Deputy
Programme Director, Senior Advisor, Chair of the MPharm Board of Examiners, Clinical
Placements Coordinator, Year Coordinators and Module Leaders.
The Programme Director and/or Module Leaders will convene a number of Module Boards which
will include student representation while the programme is running, in order to deal with any
problems or issues which students want to raise. Students may also speak to the Module Leader
or any other member of the Programme Team directly if they have particular areas of concern.
5.3
ENGLISH LANGUAGE CLASSES
Students are required to demonstrate a suitable command of the English language before
enrolling as a student at UCL. However, if you wish to improve specific elements of your English
language skills, the UCL Centre for English for Academic Purposes runs several courses which
you may find useful. These courses are aimed primarily at students who have English as an
additional language. Further details can be found at:
www.ucl.ac.uk/clie/CourseUnits/Information/EAP/Courses/LCEN6001
32
5.4
PLAGIARISM SUPPORT
UCL, in common with all universities, takes plagiarism and collusion very seriously and will
investigate allegations of this appropriately. However, particularly for new students, UCL
recognises that sometimes it is hard to know when group work or using source material crosses
the line from correct academic procedure to plagiarism or collusion. To help students appreciate
that they cannot present the work of someone else as their own, detailed information on
plagiarism is available in the Student Handbook and on the UCL website here:
www.ucl.ac.uk/current-students/guidelines/plagiarism
There will be workshops to discuss examples of plagiarism and what the consequences are if
students are found to have knowingly committed plagiarism. Students must also sign a
statement confirming that they have read and understand the School’s policy on plagiarism.
END OF SECTION 5
33
6. Pre-registration and Careers Advice
6.1
INTRODUCTION
Following graduation, students who wish to become pharmacists must undertake a 12 month
pre-registration training placement in a pharmacy setting approved by the General
Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). This is a paid placement, with salaries usually in the range of
£16,000 to £20,000. The competition for pre-registration placements is becoming tougher and
Schools of Pharmacy cannot guarantee that all of their graduates will be able to secure a
placement.
Students are encouraged to gain summer work experience in a hospital or community pharmacy,
particularly in the summers after their first, second and third years. This is now virtually essential
for a successful pre-registration application as many pre-registration employers only consider
applications from those who have taken part in their summer training programme.
6.2
CAREERS ADVICE
Mrs Nadia Bukhari (n.bukhari@ucl.ac.uk) organises a series of workshops and talks to help
students prepare to apply for summer work placements and pre-registration training. These start
in the first year with an introduction to pharmacy careers and summer placements. Students also
learn how to write a CV. In the second year, there are sessions on how to complete application
forms. In the third year, when students are preparing their pre-registration applications, there is a
session on interview skills. Students can also take part in or observe mock interviews run by a
panel of pharmacists.
6.3
CAREERS FAIR AND INFORMATION
Each year there is a careers fair at the start of the second term for the third year students. A
variety of employers are invited and students have an opportunity to network with all prospective
employers. Employers from hospital, community, the pharmaceutical industry and the army
usually attend the fair. Students have enjoyed the fairs as they receive a lot of information from
the employers and also have a chance to ask many questions on the application process.
There is also a section in the Schools website dedicated to careers and pre-registration:
www.ucl.ac.uk/pharmacy/current-students/career-dev. Vacancies and information is posted here
as well as on the careers notice board near the Junior Common Room in the basement.
Information is regularly updated and students are informed of all approaching deadlines.
34
Walk In sessions
Mrs Nadia Bukhari holds walk in sessions for all students. Here, students can discuss a variety
of issues from their career prospects to having their CV checked. If students are unable to attend
these sessions, and their query is urgent, they can email n.bukhari@ucl.ac.uk or ring 020 7753
5807 to book an appointment.
6.4
UCL CAREERS SERVICE
The UCL Careers Service offers a range of services to help students with their careers choices.
This includes helping students to prepare for work, advice on applying for jobs and interview
techniques and one to one advice sessions. Further information can be found at the web site
here: www.ucl.ac.uk/careers/students.
6.5
UNIVERSITY OF LONDON CAREERS GROUP
Students may use the facilities of the University of London Careers Group, which is located
about 10 minutes’ walk from the School. Trained advisors will help you design your CV and
coach you on interview skills. There is also a large reference library with information about
corporate and other employers. The web site is here: www.thecareersgroup.co.uk.
END OF SECTION 6
35
Appendix: Module Descriptions
Detailed Module Descriptions will be issued at the start of each module. There follows a brief
outline of each of the modules on the MPharm programme. Please note that these may be
updated to ensure that the programme remains current.
All modules on the MPharm are worth 1 Course Unit (30 credits, 15 ECTS), except the project in
year 4 which is worth 2 Course Units (60 credits, 30 ECTS).
Year 1
Code
PHAY1001
PHAY1002
PHAY1003
PHAY1004
Year 2
Code
PHAY2001
PHAY2002
PHAY2003
PHAY2004
Year 3
Code
PHAY3101
PHAY3102
Title
The Role of the Pharmacist in Health Care
Chemistry of Medicines
Body Systems and Therapeutics 1: Underpinning principles of cell and system
function and drug action
Making Safe and Effective Medicines
Title
Clinical and Professional Considerations
Medicines from the Bench to the Clinic
Body Systems and Therapeutics 2: Cardiovascular, Renal & Endocrine systems
Body Systems and Therapeutics 3: Central nervous system, gastro-intestinal
system, liver, skin, eye
PHAY3103
PHAY3104
Title
Communicating Science and Practice
Body Systems and Therapeutics 4: Immunology, inflammation, respiratory
diseases, infectious diseases, cancer
Future Design, Delivery and Administration of Medicines
Options
Year 4
Code
PHAYM101
PHAYM102
PHAYMX98
Title
Preparation for Professional Practice
Advancement of Practice Through Science
Research Project
36
37
MPharm Year 1
PHAY1001 The Role of the Pharmacist in Health Care
This module introduces students to their future roles as pharmacists and the current and
evolving pharmacy profession. To prepare students for roles as health care professionals, they
need to understand the responsibilities they have towards their patients and other members of
the health care team. The knowledge, skills and attitudes required for pharmacy practice are
introduced and developed throughout the module. Knowledge and skills obtained in the other
year one modules are applied here when discussing the use of medicines and pharmacy
practice.
PHAY1002 Chemistry of Medicines
The aim of the module is to provide a solid foundation of the chemical sciences that underpin the
use of a drug in its broadest sense, i.e. its synthesis, formulation, analysis, metabolism, stability
and biological activity. Organic, physical and analytical chemistry concepts are introduced and
discussed in detail. A series of keynote "Chemistry of Medicines" lectures highlights each
concept in an appropriate pharmaceutical context. Students will be introduced to the practical
aspects of chemical synthesis and analysis of raw materials and formulated products. The links
and inter-relationships between the individual subjects in year 1 are exemplified by the use of
specific drug examples, chosen from the "Formulary Top 25" list, and cross-referenced in the
other year 1 modules.
PHAY1003
Body Systems and Therapeutics 1: Underpinning principles of cell and
system function and drug action
The aim of this module is to provide a solid foundation of the biological sciences that underpin
the clinical therapeutic uses of a drug. Cell biology and biochemistry, cell and organ system
function, whole body physiology and pharmacology are introduced and discussed in detail. The
more applied sciences, such as receptor theory, mechanisms of drug action and
pharmacokinetics, build upon this foundation and provide a basis for the systems-based
therapeutics modules in subsequent years.
PHAY1004 Making Safe and Effective Medicines
The aim of the module is to provide a basis for the understanding of the formulation and
manufacture of safe and effective medicines, both sterile and non-sterile, with particular
emphasis on liquid and semi-solid systems. The module will incorporate appreciation of the
routes available for the administration of a drug to a patient, the physico-chemical aspects of
formulations and dosage forms, and the considerations pertinent to manufacture in practice.
Students will be introduced to the practical aspects of producing liquid and semi-solid
pharmaceutical formulations and will demonstrate competency in the safe and professional
preparation of such dosage forms. The special considerations pertaining to the preparation of
sterile pharmaceutical products will be discussed. Students will be introduced to radiopharmacy.
38
39
MPharm Year 2
PHAY2001 Clinical and Professional Considerations
Subjects are presented through a mix of lectures, seminars, tutorials and practical classes, some
of which will take place at the Green Light Pharmacy Education Centre and involve
communication with patients and members of the public as well as a problem-based learning
approach. This unit further develops students in preparation for their future role as pharmacists
and the current and evolving pharmacy profession. The knowledge, skills and attitudes required
for pharmacy practice are further developed throughout the module. Knowledge and skills
obtained in the other year 1 and year 2 modules are applied here when discussing the use of
medicines and pharmacy practice.
PHAY2002 Medicines from the Bench to the Clinic
The aim of the module is to describe the processes involved in the discovery, development and
testing of a new molecule, i.e. its journey from the laboratory bench to clinical use. Drug
discovery and sources of new drugs are discussed first, with detailed discussions on the use of
modern analytical methods in the extraction, isolation and structural elucidation processes.
Medicinal chemistry principles are introduced and illuminated by real-life examples. The legal
aspects of drug development, such as clinical trials, safety assessment studies, the worldwide
regulatory framework and post-marketing surveillance and pharmacovigilance, are considered in
depth. Conventional drug delivery methods, e.g. immediate-release and controlled-release solid
oral dosage forms, are described in detail along with their underpinning physical science.
Pharmacokinetic principles are revisited and their importance in the drug discovery and
development processes stressed. Dose regimen calculations are taught.
PHAY2003
Body Systems and Therapeutics 2: Cardiovascular, renal and endocrine
systems
This module builds on the year 1 modules, especially PHAY1003 "Body systems and
therapeutics 1", and runs concurrently with PHAY2004 "Body systems and therapeutics 3".
Together, they introduce students to the concept of clinical therapeutics and demonstrate how
drug utilisation is firmly grounded in the pharmaceutical sciences. This module concentrates on
the cardiovascular, renal and endocrine systems and will provide a solid underpinning
knowledge of the structure and function of these body systems. Based on this, students will
understand and be able to explain the aetiology and pathophysiology of typical disease states of
these systems and the scientific rationale behind relevant therapeutic interventions. The clinical
use of medicines, evidence-based medicine and guidelines (such as NICE) will be explored.
PHAY2004
Body Systems and Therapeutics 3: Central nervous system, gastrointestinal system, liver, skin, eye
This module builds on the year 1 modules, especially PHAY1003 "Body systems and
therapeutics 1", and runs concurrently with PHAY2003 "Body systems and therapeutics 2".
Together, they introduce students to the concept of clinical therapeutics and demonstrate how
drug utilisation is firmly grounded in the pharmaceutical sciences. This module concentrates on
the central nervous system, the gastro-intestinal system, the liver, the skin and the eye and will
40
provide a solid underpinning knowledge of the structure and function of these body systems.
Based on this, students will understand and be able to explain the aetiology and pathophysiology
of typical disease states of these systems and the scientific rationale behind relevant therapeutic
interventions. The clinical use of medicines, evidence-based medicine and guidelines (such as
NICE) will be explored.
41
MPharm Year 3
PHAY3101 Communicating Science and Practice
Knowledge and skills developed up to this stage of the degree are further explored with
reference to science components of the degree. Public health issues in the UK and worldwide
are examined. Medicines safety, both theoretical aspects and practical measures which can be
taken, are investigated. Community pharmacy services are examined in more detail. This
module provides further development of professional skills in preparation for future pharmacist
roles. The knowledge, skills and attitudes required for pharmacy practice that have been gained
in years one and two are further developed throughout the module.
PHAY3102
Body systems and therapeutics 4: Immunology, inflammation, infectious
diseases, respiratory diseases and cancer
This module builds on the year 1 and 2 modules, especially PHAY1003 "Body systems and
therapeutics 1", PHAY2003 Body systems and therapeutics 2" and PHAY2004 "Body systems
and therapeutics 3", and continues the biological and clinical therapeutic themes introduced in
these modules. This module concentrates on the immune system, diseases relating to
inflammation, infectious diseases, respiratory diseases and cancer, providing a solid foundation
of the relevant biological principles. Based on this, students will understand and be able to
explain the aetiology and pathophysiology of typical disease states of these systems and the
scientific rationale behind relevant therapeutic interventions. The clinical use of medicines,
evidence-based medicine and guidelines (such as NICE) will be explored.
PHAY3103 Future Design, Delivery and Administration of Medicines
The aim of the module is to explore some of the more advanced technologies used in the
discovery and formulation of new drug molecules and production of the formulated product. The
special challenges in formulating peptide and protein drugs and biological molecules are
considered in depth. Vesicular structures and nano-scale structures are discussed as potential
drug carriers. Gene therapy is introduced and debated from a scientific and ethical perspective.
The fundamental principles of biotechnology are introduced, along with examples of how
biotechnology has been used as a source of new drugs. Current and potential medical devices
are described, with a consideration of associated quality issues. Finally, the role of the
pharmaceutical industry and review bodies such as NICE in the development of advanced
formulations is discussed.
PHAY3104 Options
This module is split into two complementary strands. Strand A allows students to further develop
expertise in a specific area of current pharmacy practice (in its broadest sense), for which the
fundamentals have been covered in the core curriculum. Strand B provides a "horizon-scanning"
element, whereby the students are introduced to an area of study at the cutting edge of science
and practice. Students must study one option from each of Strand A and Strand B. Students are
allocated to the options based on their preference with, if necessary, reference to past exam
performance.
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MPharm Year 4
PHAYM101 Preparation for Professional Practice
Professional roles in pharmacy have evolved in recent years and continue to become even more
patient-focused. Pharmacists are the medicines experts within the health care system and this
module provides a range of learning opportunities to prepare students for this crucial
responsibility. This module further develops the eight aspects already addressed throughout the
degree – professionalism, legislation, supply of medicines, governance, public health, medicines
safety, communication skills and transferable skills. Each aspect builds on what has already
been covered at a level which prepares the student for pre-registration practice. This module
aims to describe current and future roles in pharmacy and prepare the students for practice.
Complex patients and complex situations are explored, with attention to evidence-based
practice, ethical issues and professionalism.
PHAYM102 Advancing Practice Through Science
This module aims to employ a flexible, highly student-centred approach which brings together
new advances in science and practice while also serving to revisit topics previously covered in
the course. In terms of spiral learning, this module will represent an excellent example of
creative revisiting of material, as well as the provision of new and cutting edge topics.
PHAYMX98 Research Project
This module involves the design, implementation and delivery of a research project which may
take place either in the UK or abroad in an approved academic or other institution. The project
builds on several prior core modules (the precise ones will depend on the topic under study) and
also on the critical appraisal skills developed in "PHAY3104 Options". The School has a mature
and well established range of overseas partners and an effective system of quality control and
student support is in place to ensure that those who choose to study abroad can do so in a safe
and supportive environment. The projects may be laboratory based (the majority) or may be
data/literature/theory based (such as the conduction of a meta-analysis). Each student will have
an individual project and be assessed individually, although students may be "clustered" around
a research theme and share some working practices depending on the availability of equipment
or commonality of research objectives. In addition, each student will undertake a wiki-style
assignment which will involve a molecule-to-clinic compilation of information relating to a
therapeutic strategy as part of the ongoing emphasis on student-centred learning and integrated
science and practice approaches.
END OF APPENDIX
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