Completion of the Human Genome Project means that it is now possible to identify the genes associated with many cancers and inherited disorders. This presents many challenges. At Salford, we are training a new generation of pharmaceutical scientists to meet these new challenges and to apply scientific knowledge in order to design drugs to improve the quality of people's lives.
Year 1 introduces the basic concepts of pharmaceutical science and includes both theoretical and practical modules.
Year 2 builds on Year 1, increasing in depth and specialisation.
In year 3 you will take three core modules and one optional module and complete your degree with a supervised research project in a subject of your choice.
If you are studying part-time you select two to four modules from each year of study, completing the rest of the modules for the year in the following year. This leads to a maximum six-year duration for a part-time degree. If studying part-time you do not have the placement option.
Year 1
Biochemical and Pharmaceutical Skills (20 credits)
This module is designed to help you facilitate and develop effective use of laboratory apparatus in the performance of basic techniques, and to develop practical laboratory skills relevant to biology and chemistry.
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Genetics (20 credits)
This module will help you develop an understanding of genes and genetics, and their influence on evolution and development, and looks at the basic principles of molecular genetics, and the function and evolution of genes in organisms.
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Cell Biology (20 credits)
This module will look at the multi-disciplinary nature of cell biology and the basic structure of cells, focusing on animal cells. It will help you develop a theoretical knowledge of the fundamental physiological and biochemical functions carried out by cells.
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Biological Chemistry (20 credits)
This module introduces the basics of molecular structure and spectroscopy, structure and function of nucleic acids, proteins, carbohydrates and lipids.
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From Molecules to Microbes (20 credits)
This module focuses on the basic principles involved in the build-up of molecules from atoms: the formation, properties and importance of bio-organic molecules, the diverse nature of micro-organisms, their structure, function and importance.
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Study Skills (20 credits)
In this module you will learn by observation, investigation, comparison and engagement, and develop practical learning and presentation methods which can be applied generically during year 1 and beyond. You will also gain an appreciation of Personal Development Planning and effective data handling, calculation and numerical skills.
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Year 2
Molecular Structure (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to introduce organic chemistry through structure and mechanism. You will study organic reactions and develop a range of practical skills in organic chemistry. This module will also prepare you for year 3 projects and taught modules.
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Pharmaceutical Science (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to introduce the general principles of pharmaceutical sciences (such as drug discovery and drug modes of action) and to present the application of these principles in the context of drug classes used to combat particular types of diseases.
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Clinical Genetics and Immunology (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to provide you with a cohesive lecture and laboratory programme to enable you to become aware of mammalian immunological mechanisms. You will also develop an understanding of theoretical and practical knowledge in the application of clinical laboratory techniques used for diagnosis.
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Genomics and Proteomics (20 credits)
This module provides an appreciation of topics in molecular biology with an emphasis on genomics, proteomics and their underlying structural aspects.
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Biochemical/Pharmaceutical Research Skills (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to help you understand the basics of scientific research under the following areas in order to prepare you for future research based activity:
- critical searching, citation and evaluation of research-based literature
- understanding experimental techniques and design
- data interpretation, analysis and presentation
- report writing and presentation.
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Human Physiology (20 credits)
The aim of this module is to encourage an awareness of the physiological nature of life in humans and develop an understanding of form, function and adaptation in organ systems central to the maintenance of life and interaction with the environment.
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Year 3
Lab-based research project (40 credits)
An opportunity to work with a research group and contribute to original research in a relevant area of biochemistry. Specialist areas within the department include cancer biochemistry, drug design and testing, molecular biology, glycobiology and biophysics.
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Drug Synthesis (20 credits)
This module introduces the concept of retrosynthetic analysis; develops an appreciation of the synthetic aspects of drug design and examines modern methods for drug synthesis.
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Biomolecular Spectroscopy and Spectrometry (20 credits)
This module introduces the subject of biomolecular characterisation and looks at the principles of spectroscopic analysis using ultraviolet/visible spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy and infrared spectroscopy.
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Biotechnology (20 credits)
This module encourages an awareness of the importance of biotechnology in industry, and develops knowledge of a variety of biochemical processes in a range of important industrial applications.
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Choose one from:
Identification of Natural Products (20 credits)
This module will provide you with a sound theoretical knowledge of the importance of, and techniques for, the detection, isolation, identification and characterisation of medicinally important natural products.
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Drugs and Disease (20 credits)
Through this module you will develop an understanding of the physical and chemical principles underlying biological activity of selected chemotherapeutic agents and other drugs. You will investigate currently active research areas and present a coherent analysis of up-to-date knowledge.
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Part-time structure
If you are studying part-time you select two to four modules from each year of study, completing the rest of the modules for the year in the following year. This leads to a maximum six-year duration for a part-time degree. If studying part-time you do not have the placement option.