Pharmacology (with a year in industry)

Pharmacology is the study of how drugs affect body functions in health and disease. It plays a vital role in helping to safeguard our health and welfare.

BSc Pharmacology explores approaches to treatment. These approaches have a focus on neuroscience, metabolic disease, and cancer. These are all research strengths at the University of Dundee.

On the course you’ll focus on topics like molecular pharmacology and quantitative pharmacology. You will learn how drugs behave depending on various factors.

This gives you an understanding of how scientists explore biomedical discoveries. You will learn how scientists develop them from initial innovation to real-world application.

Our course curriculum is shaped by the work of our world-leading researchers to make sure you’re learning the latest advances. This will also help you gain an understanding of the fundamentals of the field.

This course also allows you to spend a year working in industry, for example, in a commercial laboratory. This allows you to gain real-world skills and improve your CV. It also presents you with the opportunity to network and build relationships. These are all things that could have a positive impact on your career upon graduating from university.

The first two years of your degree will cover concepts such as:


- genetics


- cell division


- biological organisation


- molecular mechanisms and processes


You’ll develop practical skills, including laboratory skills, data analysis, and how to design and run experiments. This will prepare you for carrying out projects later in your course.

Years three and four will cover these concepts in more detail. You’ll also carry out a semester long research project based around one chosen area of the current world-class research in Life Sciences. Throughout the duration of the course, you have the flexibility to pick modules that appeal to you, highlighting to future employers where your interests lie.

The year in industry will occur between levels 3 and 4. We will support you to find a suitable placement, however if a placement is not found, you will have the opportunity to transfer to the standard four year course.

At the University of Dundee, you'll study in a welcoming city on Scotland's east coast, known for its history, culture, and vibrant mix of cafes, restaurants, shops, and bars.

Dundee was named the best place to live in Scotland for under 35s (The Times 2026). Many students find living costs lower than in other UK cities, while excellent road and rail links make travelling easy.

Since 1881, the University has been transforming lives and is recognised globally for strengths in life sciences, medicine, dentistry and engineering.

Student Services provide support throughout your studies, from academic guidance to wellbeing advice.

You'll graduate career-ready from a university ranked 2nd in Scotland for graduate prospects (The Guardian 2026).

With over 150 clubs and societies, from mountaineering to musicals, there's something for everyone.

All student accommodation is self-catered, with furnished en-suite single rooms. New full-time undergraduate students are guaranteed accommodation for their first year (T&Cs apply).