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Master of Pharmacy

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Key information

Typical offer:
Entry requirements
Fees: See below
Full details
UCAS code: B230
Institute code: H36
Work placement option
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UCAS points	A Level	BTEC
128-136	ABB-AAB: 3 A Levels to include Chemistry at grade B and one other Science (Biology, Physics or Mathematics). General Studies and Applied Science A Levels are not accepted.	DDM: Must be predicted the Extended Diploma in Applied Science. Applicants with Extended Diploma in Applied Science RQF without A-Level Chemistry will be accepted at tutor's discretion. Must also have Chemistry A level grade C or above (if QCF).

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 5/B in Double Science and 5/B in English Language and Mathematics.

All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band.

If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.

For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.

Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

UCAS points	A Level	BTEC	Access Course Tariff	IB Requirement
128 - 136	ABB - AAB - 3 A Levels to include Chemistry at grade B and one other Science (Biology, Physics or Mathematics). General Studies and Applied Science A Levels are not accepted	DDM - DDD - Must be predicted the Extended Diploma in Applied Science. Applicants with Extended Diploma in Applied Science RQF without A-Level Chemistry will be accepted at tutor's discretion. Must also have Chemistry A level grade C or above (if QCF)	Must be studying a minimum of 45 credits (30 distinctions - with minimum 15 distinctions in chemistry). No pass grades can be accepted	Pass International Baccalaureate (Diploma) with an overall diploma score of 30 including Chemistry and another Science at higher level Grade H5

Additional requirements

GCSE: Grade 5/B in Double Science and 5/B in English Language and Mathematics.

All students from non-majority English speaking countries require proof of English language proficiency, equivalent to an overall IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each band.

If you do not have the required IELTS or equivalent for direct entry on to your degree programme, our Pre-sessional English and International Foundation courses can help you to achieve this level.

For more details on the University of Hertfordshire's entry requirements, please visit our Undergraduate Entry Requirements page.

Find out more about International Entry Requirements.

Professional accreditations

The MPharm at the University of Hertfordshire is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council until the academic year 2024/25.

Graduating from the MPharm degree qualifies you to enter the pre-registration training year regulated by the GPhC.

However, please note that there is no guarantee of a pre-registration training place for any graduate as these are recruited to on a competitive national basis. Students who were studying on a Student Visa will need to apply for further immigration leave to undertake their pre-registration training.

Information on visa options which may be suitable for the pre-registration training year can be found on the Home Office website. Note the Home Office website provides current information. It is possible that there may be changes to visa and/or immigration policy by the time you start your pre-registration training.

How your application information is used

In the interests of patient and public safety, the University is required to share some of the information provided in your application form with the Medical Schools Council, Dental Schools Council and Pharmacy Schools Council in order to verify your fitness to practise.

If a fitness to practise finding is made against you in the future, this information and a copy of the decision against you will also be provided by the University to the Medical Schools Council to be stored on the database for 10 years. The database is accessible only by other medical, dental and pharmacy schools in the UK and the General Medical Council and will not be shared with any other third parties.

It is used only to ascertain an applicant’s fitness to practise to protect patients and the public. Any offer of a place on the MPharm Programme at the University of Hertfordshire is conditional on you having disclosed any previous fitness to practise findings against you to the University, and your consent being given to the University to provide the Medical Schools Council with the findings of any future fitness to practice investigation .

You have a right of access to any information held about you on the database and to have any errors corrected. If you wish to exercise these rights, or want any further information on the database please contact Veronica Davids veronica.davids@medschools.ac.uk at the Medical Schools Council.
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Why choose this course?

Gain clinical skills in our mock pharmacy and simulation suites
Hospital, community and industry placements across all years
Benefit from a peer to peer mentoring programme

Excellent facilities including a simulated pharmacy and refurbished chemistry labs.
Placement visits in all years of the programme
Regular promotion of work experience opportunities as well as workshops preparing you for working as a pharmacist including interview techniques, NICE (National Institute for Health and Care Excellence) evidence workshops, work placements, negotiating workplace politics, Q and A sessions for applying for pre-registration employment.
Mentoring programme between students of all years
Active Pharmacy Society
Lecture series with bodies such as the Royal Pharmaceutical Society and the BPSA
Summer Scholarships/Summer Research Projects with researchers from the University.
Accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council
We have strong links with local healthcare providers and pharmaceutical industries
Find out more about our Pharmacy staff

What's the course about?

Pharmacists are experts in medicines and a trusted source of advice and treatment. The role of pharmacists is developing in exciting new ways to support patients through medicine management and non-medical prescribing, as well as drug development. Using state- of-the-art facilities, you’ll gain the scientific knowledge to become a skilled and confident pharmacist. You’ll develop an understanding of normal and abnormal bodily functions and be able to apply what you’ve learned to the treatment of patients. You’ll also study the role of the pharmacist in healthcare and industry, and develop vital interpersonal skills. Work placements are essential and you’ll have opportunities in every year of the course.

Your main campus is College Lane   

This is where the creative arts, science and health-related subjects are based. This means you’ll share the campus with future nurses, scientists, artists and more. You can use the common rooms to relax with friends, work out in the 24-hour gym or have a drink in our on-campus pub or cafes. We also have restaurants for you to eat in or grab something on the go. Our Learning Resources Centres are open 24/7, which means you can study whenever suits you best. Want to pop over to the other campus? You can take the free shuttle bus or walk there in just 15 minutes.  

What will I study?

You will undertake your studies both on campus within lecture theatres and modern laboratories, as well as on clinical placements. A variety of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials, seminars, practical classes and problem based learning will be used in components of the course, supported by computer-assisted learning and self-directed study. You will be regularly assessed throughout the four years by examinations, coursework and project work. Within your final year you will undertake a Research Project in an area which interests you.

Level 4

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Transition to Higher Education	30 Credits	Compulsory
This introductory module supports students to make the transition to higher education and understand and meet the specific requirements of a professional, vocational programme. The MPharm programme integrates science and clinical practice so this module introduces students to integrating material. The module also introduces team work and social responsibility within the local community.
Drugs and Medicines	30 Credits	Compulsory
This is a foundation module that will cover essential areas of physical, structural and organic chemistry. It also includes an introduction to fundamental concepts in pharmaceutics. Students will be taught about the factors which influence the development of medicinal products and therapeutic use of medicines. The module provides the underpinning pharmaceutical science in a contextualised manner.
The Patient	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module provides students with an introduction to human physiology and the pathology of disease relating cell function and biochemistry to the function of the whole human body. It also provides an overview of the structure and function of the healthy human body.
The Pharmacist	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module will introduce students to the role of medicines in patient care and in society. The module will also explore the scope of the professional practice of pharmacy and introduce students to the concept of legality, safety and appropriateness in medication supply. Students will explore the role of the pharmacist in contributing to patient care and wellbeing including minor ailments. Students will be introduced to the concept of inter professional working and how this is applied in practice.
Preparing for Professional Practice 1	0 Credits	Compulsory
Students are introduced to professional skills and University graduate attributes in a series of taught sessions and small group tutorials with their personal tutor. They will self-reflect on their development, identifying strengths and weaknesses, with the assistance of a personal tutor and will produce a portfolio of evidence based on these reflections and wider experiences such as from the practice visit. The module includes an introduction to professional communication skills. Students give a simple 5 minute presentation to peers and reflect on their own capabilities and development needs. Communication with Health Care Professionals within a team is introduced, skills such as clarification are developed for example how to rectify basic issues (e.g. legal issues) on prescriptions with the prescriber. Students learn about and reflect on the professional standards from the General Pharmaceutical Council, including the importance of adhering to social media guidelines to ensure professional behaviour and respect for others.

Level 5

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics 1	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module considers drugs from their chemical structure, activity relationships with their targets, their pharmacology through to their use in clinical settings. The module explores a number of methods of pharmaceutical analysis. By focussing on some of the major systems of the body, the therapeutic treatments of specific disease areas are explored. Details of the mode of actions of drugs used are related to the rationale of treatment procedures and explanations for possible adverse effects which limit the therapeutic benefits are considered. New targets for drug treatments of diseases are explored when appropriate. The response of the body to any drug therapy is interpreted in terms of clinical pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. The formulation and manufacture of medicines is considered, aligned with drug pharmacology and pharmaceutical chemistry.
Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics 2	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module considers drugs from their chemical structure, activity relationships with their targets, their pharmacology through to their use in clinical settings. The module explores a number of methods of pharmaceutical analysis. By focussing on some of the major systems of the body, the therapeutic treatments of specific disease areas are explored. Details of the mode of actions of drugs used are related to the rationale of treatment procedures and explanations for possible adverse effects which limit the therapeutic benefits are considered. New targets for drug treatments of diseases are explored when appropriate. The response of the body to any drug therapy is interpreted in terms of clinical pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. The formulation and manufacture of medicines is considered, aligned with drug pharmacology and pharmaceutical chemistry.
Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics 3	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module considers drugs from their chemical structure, activity relationships with their targets, their pharmacology through to their use in clinical settings. The module explores a number of methods of pharmaceutical analysis. By focussing on some of the major systems of the body, the therapeutic treatments of specific disease areas are explored. Details of the mode of actions of drugs used are related to the rationale of treatment procedures and explanations for possible adverse effects which limit the therapeutic benefits are considered. New targets for drug treatments of diseases are explored when appropriate. The response of the body to any drug therapy is interpreted in terms of clinical pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. The formulation and manufacture of medicines is considered, aligned with drug pharmacology and pharmaceutical chemistry.
Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics 4	30 Credits	Compulsory
In this module students develop a foundation in professional and clinical skills concerning prescription and medicines management, alongside consideration of the design, manufacture and use of common pharmaceutical dosage forms. This enables students to integrate an underpinning understanding of formulations into frontline pharmacist roles including patient safety and public health. The module also covers recognition and response to symptoms of common ailments and the advisory role of the pharmacist in health promotion and illness prevention.
Preparing for Professional Practice 2	0 Credits	Compulsory
This module continues the development of personal and professional skills and graduate attributes begun in Preparing for Professional Practice 1. Students discuss the development and increased complexity of these skills in both taught sessions and small group tutorials with their personal tutor. Students will develop professional communication skills regarding the use of prescribed and non-prescribed medicines. They learn how to adapt their communication to a range of audiences (health care professionals and patients) and how to analyse data presented in relevant texts (e.g. the BNF) to select appropriate solutions (e.g. choosing the best antibiotic for a given disease state when the patient has a penicillin allergy). Students also work with their tutor and 4th year mentors to develop analyses techniques on a given scientific paper and how to recognise limitations of this. Knowledge from the clinical topics taught in the other modules across level 5 (year 2) will serve as a platform to inform the topics used in these sessions. Assessment of competencies in sterile manufacture, extemporaneous dispensing and dispensing takes place in this module. Formative and Summative OSCEs form part of this module, summative OSCEs include critical 'must pass' elements.

Level 6

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Drug and Medicine Development	30 Credits	Compulsory
Lectures and workshops cover therapeutic targets, the sources of drugs and the use and application of modern approaches such as combinatorial and computational chemistry to identify lead compounds. The advantages and limitations (including anatomical and physiological considerations) of a number of routes of administration, including transdermal and mucosal membranes, are explored. The importance of drug-delivery systems and their design, including those employed for macromolecules and nano-medicines, is addressed. The role of the regulatory authorities and the systems for the evaluation and regulation of new drugs, medicines and medical devices is discussed. The use of case studies in lectures and workshops assists in the achievement of these learning outcomes and enables the students to contextualise their understanding and knowledge. Students will undertake a practical programme which will include the development of a pharmaceutical agent and its appropriate formulation.
Law, Ethics and Social Science	30 Credits	Compulsory
The aims of this module are to provide students with a thorough knowledge and understanding of the law as it relates to pharmacy. It outlines the legislative framework for the NHS and the provision of pharmaceutical services including the terms of service for pharmaceutical contractors. The module further aims to provide students with an understanding of the concept of ethics, the place of ethics in the professional setting and a structured approach to resolution of ethical issues and dilemmas. Focussing on the interaction between pharmacist and the patient, and between the pharmacist and other healthcare providers, the module helps students to develop and apply the skills necessary to respond to the legal and ethical challenges in healthcare practice and enhances their ability to cope with uncertainty. The module also addresses professionalism, fosters the development of professional qualities, and provides a clear understanding of what the public expects from its healthcare professionals. The social theories underpinning contemporary healthcare are thoroughly discussed, and significant time is dedicated to understanding the misuse of drugs from both social and scientific viewpoints
Professional Development Skills 3	0 Credits	Compulsory
Students will complete assignments, within their discipline of choice, that include opportunities for development of their personal transferable skills and graduate attributes. Skills assessed are autonomy, information management, group working, numeracy, oral and written communication, problem solving, self-evaluation and reflective practice. They will reflect on their development with the assistance of a personal tutor and will produce a portfolio of evidence based on the set assignments and wider experience such as from the work place or other areas of responsibility. Students will build on their knowledge and experience from Year 2 to strengthen their professional skills.
Interprofessional Education for Life and Medical Sciences 2	15 Credits	Compulsory
Content covered will typically include the following: inter-professional working; professional issues; service user experience; reflection; ethics; communication skills; roles and responsibilities; equality and diversity; data protection; and patient safety.
Applied Pharmacotherapeutics	15 Credits	Compulsory
Developing from both of the second year Pharmacotherapeutics modules this module looks more in depth at selected disease states from the more common body systems. As well as looking into further depth at the common pathology, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms the management of these disease areas will be explored. Strategies for management including relevant guidelines and how these are applied in current clinical practice are explored using prescription and case based workshops.
Pharmacy Practice and Medicines 3	30 Credits	Compulsory
The module introduces the extended role of pharmacists in clinical practice, patient assessment, near patient testing and sterile manufacture. Students will be able to understand the generic skills required in conducting a medicines usage review and how this informs the development of an appropriate pharmaceutical care plan that respects the principles of concordance. They will also develop advanced skills associated with pharmaceutical care: eliciting, reviewing and assessing patient history, maintaining records and counselling patients to encourage concordant relationships focusing on students' communication and listening skills. Students will consider the extended role of the pharmacist in sterile manufacture by reviewing aseptic operation and importance of environment control in parenteral manufacturing. Students will manufacturer a radiopharmaceutical product using the principles of aseptic techniques.
Project	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module will cover reviewing literature, appropriate research design, data analysis including statistics and preparation of research report. Students are supported in preparing a research question and in undertaking research.
Applied Therapeutic Interventions 1	30 Credits	Compulsory
Building on from the second year Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics modules, this module looks more in depth at the evidence based treatment of selected clinical topics including drugs of abuse, pain, mental health conditions. As well as looking into further depth at the common pathology, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms the management of these disease areas will be explored. Students will learn the relevant legislation and ethics within the context of these topics. Strategies for management of these conditions including relevant guidelines and how these are applied in current clinical practice are explored using prescription and case based workshops. Clinical simulation is used to allow students to apply their skills and knowledge. During the 3rd Year of the MPharm programme independent learning continues to be developed.Students will be expected to independently complete pre-session tasks to be able to actively participate in taught lecture and workshop sessions.
Applied Therapeutic Interventions 2	30 Credits	Compulsory
Building on from the second year Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics modules, this module looks more in depth at the evidence based treatment of selected clinical topics including sexual health and endocrine diseases. As well as looking into further depth at the common pathology, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms the management of these disease areas will be explored. Students will learn the relevant legislation and ethics within the context of these topics. Strategies for management of these conditions including relevant guidelines and how these are applied in current clinical practice are explored using prescription and case based workshops. Clinical simulation is used to allow students to apply their skills and knowledge. During the 3rd Year of the MPharm programme independent learning continues to be developed.Students will be expected to independently complete pre-session tasks to be able to actively participate in taught lecture and workshop sessions.
Applied Therapeutic Interventions 3	30 Credits	Compulsory
Building on from the second year Clinical pharmacy and therapeutics modules, this module looks more in depth at the evidence based treatment of selected clinical topics including immunology, oncology, palliative and end of life care. As well as looking into further depth at the common pathology, pathophysiology, signs and symptoms the management of these disease areas will be explored. Students will learn the relevant legislation and ethics within the context of these topics including euthanasia . Strategies for management of these conditions including relevant guidelines and how these are applied in current clinical practice are explored using prescription and case based workshops. Clinical simulation is used to allow students to apply their skills and knowledge. During the 3rd Year of the MPharm programme independent learning continues to be developed. Students will be expected to independently complete pre-session tasks to be able to actively participate in taught lecture and workshop sessions.
Preparing for Professional Practice 3	0 Credits	Compulsory
This module continues the development of personal and professional skills and graduate attributes from the previous modules Preparing for Professional Practice 1 and 2. Students discuss the development and increased complexity of these skills in both taught sessions and small group tutorials with their personal tutor. Students will further develop professional communication skills regarding the use of prescribed and non-prescribed medicines in a wide range of situations and disease states. They learn how to demonstrate confidence to define complex issues and how to synthesise ideas to generate novel solutions (e.g. how to find an appropriate formulation for a patient who cannot swallow). The key focus of the year is employability. Students work with their tutor and 4th year mentors to develop their interview skills in preparation for their pre-registration interviews. Knowledge from the clinical topics taught in the other modules across level 6 (year 3) will serve as a platform to inform the topics used in these sessions. Formative and Summative OSCEs form part of this module, summative OSCEs include critical 'must pass' elements. Competence in the development of numeracy skills is also assessed as a 'must pass' element in this module.

Level 7

Module	Credits	Compulsory/optional
Professional Development Skills 4	0 Credits	Compulsory
Students will lead selected Year 1-3 PDS sessions, this includes opportunities for development of their personal transferable skills and graduate attributes. Skills assessed are autonomy, information management, group working, numeracy, oral and written communication, problem solving, self-evaluation and reflective practice. They will reflect on their development with the assistance of a personal tutor and will produce a portfolio of evidence based on the set assignments and wider experience such as from the work place or other areas of responsibility. Students will build on their knowledge and experience from Year 3 to strengthen their professional skills.
Project	45 Credits	Compulsory
This module will cover reviewing literature, appropriate research design, data analysis and preparation of research report.
Pharmacy Practice and Medicines 4	30 Credits	Compulsory
This module prepares the student for entry to the pre-registration year and develops knowledge skills and attributes obtained throughout the programme. It develops the students' ability to utilise their knowledge of chemistry, pharmaceutics, pharmacology, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics to the safe, legal and ethical prescribing process. The module covers recent changes in law, scientific advances and developments in professional practice. Students will demonstrate appropriate skills through simulation and patient contact to work in partnership with patients, carers and fellow healthcare professionals for the safe and effective use of medicines. The teaching sessions are delivered by practitioners with a wide range of experience. The teaching delivery mode is a combination of lectures, small group work and workshops. Students are encouraged to undertake self/independent study to supplement and consolidate their knowledge base and are expected to utilise on-line learning platforms.
Public Health and Patient Safety	30 Credits	Compulsory
The module is designed to build on the scientific and professional framework gained throughout the MPharm degree and enhance students' knowledge and understanding of broad public health and patient safety issues with a focus on pharmacy practice. Students will explore the practice of public health and patient safety in a range of related settings. They will learn about good practice affecting public health and patient safety. This module will help students to appreciate the role of the pharmacist in a proactive and preventative role as well as in reactive and management roles as required. Students will cover effective communication and interpersonal skills in relation to multiple stakeholders and contexts.
Topics in Medicine Design	15 Credits	Optional
This module option examines the processes and steps involved in the design of synthetic pathways for pharmaceuticals. The module will provide a brief introduction in the application of protecting groups in multistep synthesis; asymmetric synthesis, chemical approaches to stereoselective synthesis; strategies for the synthesis of carbocyclic and heterocyclic compounds; and retrosynthetic analysis. The application of the principles and concepts outlined above will be illustrated by examination of synthetic examples of drugs used in different therapeutic classes. Different formulation strategies for the synthesised drugs will be reviewed. The clinical applications of the synthesised drugs will be examined.
Industrial Pharmaceutics	15 Credits	Optional
The module will introduce the main principles of drug candidate and route of delivery selection, preformulation, different approaches to developing, optimising and performance testing a dosage form and the choice of appropriate preclinical and clinical methodology. In addition, the module will cover the importance of patent protection and business in the pharmaceutical development process. The regulatory process of CTA and MA submissions will also be reviewed.
Mental Health	15 Credits	Optional
The aim of this module is to develop an understanding of mental health across life span (infancy, childhood, adolescence, adulthood, late life) and its impact on primary and secondary healthcare. The role of pharmacists in mental health is critically evaluated. The student develops knowledge of both neurochemistry and psychopharmacology. The above issues are presented in lectures and applied to specific examples by case studies (within seminars and workshops). Case studies explore such matters such as the definition of the appropriate and inappropriate use of psychotropic drugs and the clinical pharmacological classification of psychotropics. Workshops explore both clinical neuropsychopharmacological issues applied to everyday practice and critical incidents, with appropriate assessment and management of at-risk clinical situations. A problem based learning independent exercise tests the student's ability to conduct appropriate assessment and management in the common clinical psychopathological situations. StudyNet is used throughout the module.
Advanced Pharmaceutical Analysis	15 Credits	Optional
The course will describe modern analytical instrumentation such as hyphenated techniques, capillary electrophoresis and NMR and outline the types of data which these techniques generate. The effect of various experimental variables will be considered using experimental design techniques. Throughout the lectures examples from the analysis of pharmaceuticals will be given.
Pharmacotherapeutics in Practice	15 Credits	Optional
Students will be introduced to the role of pharmacy in chronic disease management within healthcare organisations. Students will explore through private study and via simulated ward rounds a range of chronic diseases and contribute to seminars on the diagnosis, presentation and clinical management of a range of conditions. Students will review medicines management in prevention and treatment of a range of conditions. Students will explore the role of patients in safe and effective medication use.
Travel Health	15 Credits	Optional
The aims of this module are to give the student advanced understanding of scientific and practical knowledge in all elements of travel health. The module will cover the role of the pharmacist and pharmaceutical scientist in travel health promotion and prevention of illness. Students will develop an understanding of key issues encountered in travel health and the needs of and being able to offer advice to special groups of travellers. The course content will include (but is not limited to) risks of travel in different countries, management of existing medical conditions during travel and responding to symptoms in the returning traveller. Students will also gain an understanding on how to manage travel for recreational, humanitarian, educational, business and religious purposes. Students will cover communication and interpersonal skills in role play and case studies scenarios.
Topical Therapeutics	15 Credits	Optional
This module focuses primarily on the importance of percutaneous absorption factors in the development of clinically effective and safe topical dosage formulations. Additionally the module will include significant content from other disciplines including pharmaceutical chemistry, pharmacology, toxicology and evidence based pharmacotherapy in dermatology. this will provide an integrated and holistic understanding of the development of topical products which will be used to facilitate discussion of the role of the pharmacist in the management of topically treatable diseases and in the application of the drug products to skin.

Work placement

To prepare you for a professional career in pharmacy, the degree has a vocational element. You will be expected to gain pharmacy practice experience within hospital, community or industry placements. Through the placements you will develop new skills and knowledge through contact with pharmacists, patients and other healthcare professionals. This will provide a wide range of experiences and will develop your ability to relate pharmacy theory to practice.

Our Department of Pharmacy welcomes the diversity of its student body, however, in some lectures, workshops, clinical classes and placements, laboratory or clinical simulation situations students may not be able to comply with religious dress requirements due to health and safety considerations and/or the need for communication between individuals.

The need to comply with health and safety or patient safety will be given priority over the need for religious expression. This course includes placements in hospital pharmacy, community pharmacy and industry; these placement elements are essential for completion of the course. Whilst on placement, students must adhere to the Infection Control policy and uniform requirements of the host organisation.

Check out our student blogs

Alumni Stories

Nikunj Thakrar

Meet Nikunj Thakrar who has built a successful career as a Pharmacist since graduating in 2009. He currently works for Tesco as a Pharmacy Manager and has returned to the University as a visiting lecturer.

Read more stories Find out more about this course

Current job role	Pharmacy Manager
Year of graduation	2009
Course of study	MPharm Pharmacy

University experience

Nikunj has been working at Tesco since he was a pre-reg Pharmacist and has worked his way up to the position he is now in. He speaks highly of the University, crediting us with helping him succeed in his career. Through the University's resources, facilities and exceptional Pharmacy degree, Nikunj had the opportunity to train three pharmacists as a pre-reg tutor. This hands-on practical experience helped him when entering employment and gave him tangible skills to take into his career.

He says, 'The University had, and still has, a massive impact on how my career has progressed. The teaching, support and resources were excellent and helped me develop into the pharmacist I am today. I count my time at university as one of the main contributing factors to my success.'

Real world skills

Nikunj's experience and career demonstrates how the University gives students the skills to succeed, delivering fully skilled, work ready graduates to the professional world, equipped with unique experience and knowledge. Nikunj says, 'I feel that the preparation we were given for the real world was extremely useful in helping me settle as a pharmacist. We spent a lot of time in the mock pharmacy and dispensing suites which were the closest thing to an actual pharmacy. And although daunting, OSCE examinations were an extremely effective way of mimicking real-life scenarios a pharmacist may encounter, ultimately testing our knowledge.'

Aspirations for the future

As a visiting lecturer, the University recognised Nikunj's talent and was able to facilitate his passion for the subject. He is continually developing new skills that he can incorporate into his professional role, in addition to help nurture the pharmacists of tomorrow. He encourages prospective pharmacists to gain experience alongside their degree as it will be invaluable when qualified. He adds, 'Set yourself goals to work towards and never lose sight of them.'

Looking ahead to the future, Nikunj says, 'I am currently very happy with my roles at Tesco and the University of Hertfordshire. However, in the future, I plan on helping out with more central and operational projects within the company and to increase my time spent in academia.'

I made great friends on my degree and through the Students' Union, and I've now got friends around the world, because of the wider Alumni community.

Alumni Stories

Amira Guirguis

Meet Amira Guirguis discovered her passion and retrained as a pharmacist. She is currently studying towards a PhD in Pharmacy.

Read more stories Find out more about this course

Current job role	Pharmacist
Year of graduation	2012
Course of study	MPharm Pharmacy

A move into pharmacy

Amira Guirguis’ career path into pharmacy did not begin in the most traditional way. Initially, Amira trained as an accountant, but always had an interest in people and languages, speaking three fluently. After subsequently working in interpretation and translation, she then decided to retrain as a pharmacist.

One of the benefits that Amira saw with pharmacy was the broad opportunities it offered, including being able to work in the community, hospitals, industry or research. Given this, she advises making the most of all opportunities available. She says, ‘Be proactive and learn from the different expertise of lecturers and researchers. Pharmacy is not just about passing an exam but about developing the skills and competences which would enable you to be a successful pharmacist or researcher.’

Focusing on research

After completing her pre-registration year at Ealing Hospital, Amira decided to undertake a PhD having spent the summers of her MPharm working in research. ‘I am very interested in research and keen in pursuing a career in pharmaceutical research, aiming at finding out new methods to improve patient safety and raise our profile as pharmacists.’

Her PhD focuses on using different spectroscopic methods and computational modelling which could be used to identify novel psychoactive substances (NPS) or ‘legal highs’. Currently, Amira is reviewing the existing research and literature, and plans to start in the lab shortly.

Future plans

Even though her focus is very much on pharmaceutical research and her PhD, Amira is keen to retain her skills as a pharmacist and is currently working to gain the necessary accreditations to be able to undertake locum opportunities at community pharmacies. ‘As I’m hospital trained, I would need to undertake some mandatory and other optional courses related to enhanced and advanced services in community pharmacy, although still hope to also locum in hospitals.’

Longer term, her focus remains on research alongside helping future pharmacists. ‘In the future, I want to work in research and contribute into pharmaceutical discoveries. My ambitions are also to develop a course for pre-registration pharmacists that would assist them towards their pre-registration training and pre-reg. exam.’

What's next for my career?
There are excellent employment and career prospects within Hertfordshire and the UK for graduates of the MPharm programme. A career in pharmacy offers graduates the pursuit of an interest in science, the opportunity to join the NHS healthcare team, a choice of working environments and a competitive salary.

Community pharmacists

Community pharmacists represent the largest body of the profession. There are over 12,000 community pharmacies in the UK. Community pharmacies may be located on the high street or in local or rural sites.

The new pharmacy contract enables pharmacists to develop their clinical skills and contribute to the public health agenda and management of long-term health conditions. Pharmacists are also developing new roles in prescribing.

Hospital pharmacists

Pharmacies within hospitals differ from community pharmacies. Many pharmacists practising in hospitals gain more education and training after pharmacy school through a pharmacy practice residency, sometimes followed by another residency in a specific area. Those pharmacists are often referred to as clinical pharmacists and they often specialise in various disciplines of pharmacy.

The role of the hospital pharmacists includes the dispensing and supply of medicines and the provision of clinical services to hospital wards. It also involves direct contact with patients and liaison with other healthcare professionals such as doctors, allied health professionals and nurses who constitute the healthcare team.

The testing and preparation of medicines in NHS hospitals are also the responsibility of hospital pharmacists. New roles are emerging for pharmacists as advanced practitioners and consultant pharmacists.

Consultant pharmacy

Consultant pharmacy practice focuses more on medication regimen review than on actual dispensing of drugs. Consultant pharmacists typically work in nursing homes but are increasingly branching into other institutions and non-institutional settings.

Consultant pharmacists have traditionally been independent business owners. This trend may be gradually reversing as consultant pharmacists begin to work directly with patients. This is primarily because many elderly people are now taking numerous medications but continuing to live outside of institutional settings.

Internet pharmacy

Since the year 2000, a growing number of internet pharmacies have been established worldwide. Many of these pharmacies are similar to community pharmacies and in fact many of them are operated by bricks-and-mortar community pharmacies that serve consumers online as well as those that walk through their door. The primary difference is the method by which the medications are requested and received.

Internet pharmacies, also known as online pharmacies are recommended to some homebound patients by their physicians.

Other careers in pharmacy

Pharmacists can also pursue careers within the pharmaceutical industry in the fields of:
- medical information
- marketing
- production
- research and development
- university teaching or research
- animal medicines
- the Armed Forces
- medical journalism and more.
  
  Find out more information about careers in pharmacy
Following graduation and meeting the GPhC requirements during the pre-registration year, there are a wide range of career paths open to you. You could work in community / hospital pharmacy, for one of the growing online pharmacy companies, or within drug development and marketing within the pharmaceutical industry.
View our Alumni profiles

Nikunj Thakrar Amira Guirguis
Key staff

Pharmacy Admissions Tutor Waseeat Kareem-Alliu

Find out more about Pharmacy Admissions Tutor Waseeat Kareem-Alliu

Course fact sheets
Master of Pharmacy	Download

Programme specifications
Master of Pharmacy	Download

Additional information
Sandwich placement or study abroad year	n/a
Applications open to international and EU students	Yes
Course length	Full Time, 4 Years
Location	University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Apply through our international/EU application portal

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

Apply using the links below:

2023

Start Date	End Date	Link
28/09/2023	20/05/2024	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2023	20/05/2024	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2023	20/05/2024	Apply online (Full Time)

2024

Start Date	End Date	Link
28/09/2024	20/05/2025	Apply online (Full Time)
28/09/2024	20/05/2025	Apply online (Full Time)

2025

Start Date	End Date	Link
28/09/2025	20/05/2026	Apply online (Full Time)

Fees and funding
Fees 2023
UK Students

Full time
- £9250 for the 2023/2024 academic year
EU Students

Full time
- £14750 for the 2023/2024 academic year
International Students

Full time
- £14750 for the 2023/2024 academic year
Additional costs include:
- £30 deposit for chemistry locker covering years 1 and 2 of study – refundable
- £25 for dispensing lab coat and 2 lab books – non-refundable
- £35 deposit for EVS system – refundable after year 4 of study
- For students who wear a Hijab or head cover there is a laboratory flame-proof Hijab or other head cover for £10– non-refundable
- Travel costs for visits and placements
*Tuition fees are charged annually. The fees quoted above are for the specified year(s) only. Fees may be higher in future years, for both new and continuing students. Please see the University’s Fees and Finance Policy (and in particular the section headed “When tuition fees change”), for further information about when and by how much the University may increase its fees for future years.

View detailed information about tuition fees

Read more about additional fees in the course fact sheet

Other financial support

Find out more about other financial support available to UK and EU students

Living costs / accommodation

The University of Hertfordshire offers a great choice of student accommodation, on campus or nearby in the local area, to suit every student budget.

View detailed information about our accommodation

Master of Pharmacy

Key information

Typical offer:

Fees: See below

UCAS code: B230

Institute code: H36

Work placement option

Additional requirements

Additional requirements

How your application information is used

Exclusive content to help you through Clearing

Why choose this course?

What's the course about?

Your main campus is College Lane

What will I study?

Check out our student blogs

Student Blogs

My typical day

Student Blogs

What I love about my course

Student Blogs

Why I chose Herts

Student Blogs

Alumni Stories

Meet Nikunj Thakrar who has built a successful career as a Pharmacist since graduating in 2009. He currently works for Tesco as a Pharmacy Manager and has returned to the University as a visiting lecturer.

University experience

Real world skills

Aspirations for the future

Alumni Stories

Meet Amira Guirguis discovered her passion and retrained as a pharmacist. She is currently studying towards a PhD in Pharmacy.

A move into pharmacy

Focusing on research

Future plans

Community pharmacists

Hospital pharmacists

Consultant pharmacy

Internet pharmacy

Other careers in pharmacy

International/EU applicants without pre-settled status in the UK

Home and EU applicants with pre-settled/settled status in the UK

2023

2024

2025

Fees 2023

UK Students

Full time

EU Students

Full time

International Students

Full time

Other financial support

Living costs / accommodation

Your main campus is College Lane   