Pharmacology
Pharmacology is the science of drugs: how they interact with biological systems, what therapeutic effects they produce, what toxic effects they can cause, and how they are developed from initial discovery through clinical trials to patient use. It is a discipline that sits at the intersection of biochemistry, physiology, chemistry and medicine, and it plays a central role in one of the world's most important industries. Understanding how drugs work at the molecular and systems level requires both deep biological knowledge and a command of the chemical principles that determine how medicines behave in the body.
At Bangor University, this three-year core programme is available with a foundation year for students who need an additional period of scientific preparation before engaging with the main degree curriculum. You will study drug receptors and signalling pathways, pharmacokinetics (how the body handles drugs), pharmacodynamics (how drugs affect the body), neuropharmacology, cardiovascular pharmacology, and the regulatory and clinical framework within which drug development and evaluation take place. Laboratory skills are central to pharmacology, and you will develop practical competence in cell culture, assay techniques, and data analysis methods used in pharmaceutical research.
A sandwich year, year abroad, and work placement are also available, giving you professional experience in the pharmaceutical or research sector alongside your academic studies.
Graduates of Pharmacology programmes work in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies in drug discovery, preclinical and clinical development, regulatory affairs, and pharmacovigilance. Others work in academic research, clinical laboratory science, science writing, and NHS pharmacy support roles. Many pursue postgraduate study in pharmacology, drug discovery, toxicology, or clinical pharmacology, progressing into research or specialist professional roles.
The knowledge base that pharmacology develops is also a strong foundation for further training in medicine or pharmacy.