Pharmacology
Pharmacology is the science of drugs, how they interact with biological systems and how they can be designed and used to combat disease. It sits at the intersection of physiology, biochemistry, cell biology and molecular biology, examining how drug molecules bind to their targets, what effects they produce at the cellular and organ level, and how those effects can be harnessed therapeutically. It is a discipline with direct relevance to medicine and healthcare, underpinning the development of treatments for conditions including cancer, cardiovascular disease, neurological disorders, infectious diseases and respiratory conditions.
At the University of Liverpool this three-year full-time degree is taught by leading academics who are active researchers, bringing current knowledge of drug discovery and development directly into their teaching. You will study the physiological and biochemical processes underlying major diseases alongside the principles of how drug molecules can be designed to relieve symptoms and address disease mechanisms. The curriculum covers classical pharmacology, physiology, cell biology, biochemistry, molecular toxicology and cancer pharmacology, using a range of teaching approaches to develop both conceptual understanding and practical laboratory skills.
The degree includes a year abroad option, broadening your scientific perspective through study in an international research environment.
Graduates from Pharmacology degrees go on to careers in pharmaceutical research and development, drug discovery, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, medical writing, healthcare science and the biomedical industry. Many also pursue postgraduate study in pharmacology, medicinal chemistry, drug delivery, toxicology or medicine, and the degree provides an excellent scientific foundation for entry to medical, dentistry or veterinary graduate entry programmes. The analytical and laboratory skills the degree develops are also valued in research, healthcare management and science communication roles.