BSc (Hons) Medicinal Chemistry and Biology (International or Placement Year)

Keele University campus

 

INTAKE: September

Program Overview

The BSc (Hons) Medicinal Chemistry and Biology program at Keele University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the principles and applications of medicinal chemistry and biology, preparing them for careers in pharmaceutical research, biotechnology, and related industries. This interdisciplinary program combines the study of chemistry and biology, focusing on the design, synthesis, and evaluation of chemical compounds for medicinal purposes. Students gain hands-on experience in laboratory techniques, computational modeling, and drug discovery methods, as well as a strong foundation in biological sciences. The program also offers the option of an international year or placement year, allowing students to gain valuable experience in a professional setting or study abroad, enhancing their skills and employability.

  1. Interdisciplinary Curriculum: The program integrates coursework from chemistry and biology, providing students with a holistic understanding of drug discovery and development processes. Courses cover topics such as organic chemistry, biochemistry, pharmacology, and molecular biology, preparing students for careers at the interface of chemistry and biology.

  2. Practical Laboratory Skills: Students develop practical laboratory skills through hands-on experiments and research projects. They learn techniques such as chemical synthesis, spectroscopy, chromatography, and cell culture, gaining proficiency in modern laboratory methods used in medicinal chemistry and biology.

  3. Drug Discovery and Development: The curriculum includes modules on drug discovery and development, where students learn about the stages involved in bringing a new drug to market. They study drug targets, screening methods, pharmacokinetics, and medicinal chemistry strategies for optimizing drug potency and selectivity.

  4. Computational Modeling: Students gain experience in computational chemistry and molecular modeling techniques, using software tools to predict molecular properties, analyze protein-ligand interactions, and design new chemical entities. This computational approach complements experimental methods in drug design and optimization.

  5. Professional Skills Development: The program emphasizes the development of professional skills essential for success in the pharmaceutical industry. Students learn communication skills, teamwork, problem-solving, and project management, preparing them for roles in research, development, and regulatory affairs.

  6. International or Placement Year: The option of an international year or placement year allows students to gain real-world experience in industry or academia, or to study abroad at partner institutions. This immersive experience enhances students' cultural awareness, language skills, and professional networks, making them more competitive in the global job market.

Pollster Education

Location

Keele University campus

Pollster Education

Score

IELTS: 6.5

Pollster Education

Tuition Fee

£ 17900

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Academic Qualifications: Applicants should have successfully completed their secondary education or equivalent with a minimum overall average of 60% or above.  

English Language Proficiency: 

  • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5, with no sub-score below 6.0.
  • TOEFL: Overall score of 87, with a minimum score of 21 in each section.
  • PTE Academic: Overall score of 64, with no sub-score below 58.

Students must provide:

  • academic marksheets & transcripts
  • letters of recommendation
  • a personal statement - SOP
  • passport
  • other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

Keele University offers a range of scholarships and financial support options to attract and assist international students in pursuing their studies. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and provide financial assistance to deserving students.

International Excellence Scholarship: The International Excellence Scholarship is awarded to high-achieving international undergraduate students. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £2,500 per year for the duration of the undergraduate program. Eligibility is based on academic merit and applicants are automatically considered when they submit their application for admission.

Keele International Student Scholarship: The Keele International Student Scholarship is available to international students enrolling in a postgraduate taught master's degree program. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £3,000. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for their chosen postgraduate program.

Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme: Keele University participates in the Commonwealth Shared Scholarship Scheme, which is funded by the UK government. The scheme provides full tuition fees, airfare, and living expenses for students from developing Commonwealth countries. The scholarship is available for selected master's degree programs in specific fields of study.

Global Excellence Scholarship: The Global Excellence Scholarship is awarded to international students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement and contribute to the global community. The scholarship provides a tuition fee discount of up to £5,000 for the first year of study. Eligibility is based on academic merit, and applicants are automatically considered when they apply for an eligible undergraduate or postgraduate program.

Country-Specific Scholarships: Keele University also offers scholarships specifically tailored to students from certain countries or regions. These scholarships may vary in terms of eligibility criteria and funding amounts. Examples include the Keele Nigeria Scholarship and the Keele ASEAN Scholarships, which provide financial support to students from Nigeria and Southeast Asia, respectively.

It's important to note that scholarship availability and eligibility criteria may vary each year.

The BSc (Hons) Medicinal Chemistry and Biology program at Keele University equips graduates with a diverse skill set suited for careers in pharmaceutical research, drug development, biotechnology, and related industries. The integration of chemistry and biology in this program prepares students for roles that require an understanding of both disciplines, particularly in the context of drug discovery and medicinal chemistry.

  1. Pharmaceutical Research Scientist: Graduates can pursue roles as research scientists in pharmaceutical companies, focusing on developing new drugs and therapies. They may work in drug design, synthesis, and testing, contributing to the development of novel treatments for diseases.

  2. Medicinal Chemist: With a strong background in chemistry and biology, graduates are well-suited for positions as medicinal chemists. They design and synthesize chemical compounds with therapeutic properties, optimizing their efficacy and safety profiles.

  3. Biotechnologist: Opportunities exist in the biotechnology sector, where graduates can work on developing biologics, vaccines, and diagnostics. They may be involved in molecular biology, recombinant DNA technology, and protein engineering.

  4. Clinical Trials Coordinator: Graduates can work in clinical research organizations (CROs) coordinating and managing clinical trials. They ensure that trials are conducted ethically and according to regulatory standards, contributing to the evaluation of new therapies.

  5. Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Careers in regulatory affairs involve ensuring compliance with regulatory guidelines and obtaining approvals for new drugs. Graduates may work with regulatory agencies, pharmaceutical companies, or consultancy firms.

  6. Quality Control/Assurance Officer: Graduates may work in quality control or assurance roles, ensuring the safety, efficacy, and quality of pharmaceutical products. They perform tests and inspections to maintain high standards in manufacturing processes.

  7. Academic or Industry Researcher: Some graduates may pursue further studies at the postgraduate level or work as researchers in academic institutions, focusing on drug discovery, chemical biology, or related fields.

  8. Drug Safety Specialist: Graduates can work in pharmacovigilance, monitoring and assessing the safety of drugs post-market. They analyze adverse effects and contribute to risk management strategies.

  9. Product Development Scientist: Careers in product development involve translating research findings into marketable products. Graduates contribute to product formulation, scale-up, and commercialization processes.

  10. Entrepreneurship: Graduates with an entrepreneurial mindset can start their own ventures in the biotechnology or pharmaceutical sector, developing innovative solutions and technologies.


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