About the course

Competent Pharmaceutical and Analytical Scientists are presently in demand in the pharmaceutical and related industries. This course has been designed with input from Pharmacists and Pharmaceutical Scientists with a wide range of industrial and research experience. Pharmaceutical analysis involves the testing of drug substances and the formulation of pharmaceutical drugs as they are utilized. This course will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the most recent technological developments and applications in Pharmaceutical and Analytical Science. The different methods of drug formulation currently being used, and being developed, are described alongside the instrumental techniques which can be used in the analysis of drug components. The modules are taught by enthusiasts who are experts in their fields. The course is two thirds taught material and one third project.

Course content

The course is designed to train you in scientific methodology relating to pharmaceutical and analytical science and extend your interest and knowledge in the subject. The different methods of drug formulation currently being used, and being developed, are described alongside the instrumental techniques which can be used in the analysis of drug components. The taught part of the course consists of seven theory modules in the areas of forensic and Analytical Science as well as a practical module. The research project requires 50 days laboratory work and takes place during the summer, sometimes through an industrial placement.

We offer the following modules:

Fundamentals of Analytical Science

This module gives an overview of Analytical Science using scope, requirements and technological changes. The quality of data is ascertained using a variety of methods. Sample preparation and treatment and instrumentation with particular reference to errors and uncertainty.

Data Treatment and Analysis

Basic statistical theory underlying the analysis and treatment of univariate and multivariate chemical, forensic, pharmaceutical and biological laboratory data.

Advanced Separation Techniques

This module introduces the theoretical basis and current and future developments in analytical separation techniques. Areas covered range from solid phase extraction; theory of chromatography; gas chromatography (GC); high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC); capillary electrophoresis (CE), asymmetric flow field flow fractionation (AF4) and sedimentation velocity in the analytical ultracentrifuge (SV-AUC). Tutorials are provided to support the lectures. Assessment is by an in-class test (50 %) and a major assignment consisting of an essay and presentation (50 %).

NMR Spectroscopy and Mass Spectrometry for Analytical Scientists

This module provides both a broad and in depth coverage of NMR spectroscopy and mass spectrometry. There is a large emphasis on developing your knowledge of the two techniques and you will be exposed to the most recent advances in instrumentation and their applications. You will explore advances in NMR design through a written assignment and you will also be able to demonstrate your ability to interpret spectral data in an exam.

Practical

Extended experiments to develop, compare and assess methods for analytical problems carried out in small groups with joint report and oral presentations.

Pharmaceutics and Pharmaceutical Analysis

This module will consider the formulation of small molecules and macromolecules (proteins and monoclonal antibodies) using advanced drug delivery systems. The application of advanced analytical techniques such as thermal and spectroscopic methods in drug development will also be appreciated. Latest trends in pharmaceutical development such as pharmaceutical nanotechnology and lipid based drug delivery systems will also be considered. Assessment is by test (50%) and Assignment (50%).

Pharmaceutical Preparations and their Testing

This module will consider the testing of drug substances and formulations in the Pharmaceutical Industry. A graduate analyst will be familiar with a wide range of analytical techniques but largely chemical in nature. This module will extend that knowledge to the testing of formulated pharmaceutical products and their other important attributes. This module is assessed by test (50%) and assignment (50%).

Molecular Medicine

This module will help you learn how understanding the biology underlying microbial (bacterial and viral) infection and disease, such as cancer, is important in the design of novel therapeutic agents. The module will outline examples of anticancer drugs, antimicrobials and drugs against other diseases (such as diabetes). In addition to a test (70% of module mark) that will assess your understanding of the topics, you will have the opportunity of independent learning in the form of a poster combined with a viva-type examination that will enhance your communication and interpersonal skills as well as critical thinking.

Project

This module will give you research experience in methods of experimental design and either to develop new analytical methods or to solve a novel analytical problem. The research project is carried out over a 50 day period working in the laboratory. Part-time student may carry out their project at their place of employment. You will become familiar with the current analytical literature and gain skills in being able to select and review relevant papers on a particular topic. It will test your ability to handle and interpret analytical data. You will also further develop communication skills in report writing (50% of assessment), poster and oral presentations (10% of assessment each). Further feedback will be provided by regular meetings with your project supervisor on a day-to-day basis (30% of assessment).

Additional routes

Research degrees are also available in this area. Contact us for details.

Interim Awards: A Master's course is 180 Master's level credits, which would normally take one calendar year full-time study. Interim awards are available at Postgraduate Certificate level or Postgraduate Diploma level should you decide to exit the course early.

Please contact us for details of the credits required for these interim awards.