Cancer Pharmacology – MSc

Why study this course?

This master’s course explores the nature of cancer at the systems, cellular and molecular levels, and focuses on the drugs which are used to treat different cancers and how they work. By the end of the MSc, you will have developed a deep understanding of how chemotherapeutic agents are used to target and kill cancer cells as part of a central strategy in the treatment of cancers.

More about this course

With worldwide cancer rates increasing and expected to reach 22 million new cases per year by 2030, this postgraduate course introduces you to how radiotherapy, surgery and chemotherapy have a vital role to play in prolonging the lives of patients.

You’ll be provided with an in-depth understanding of the molecular targets at which the different classes of anticancer drugs are aimed, and of how drug therapies are evolving. You’ll also review the biology of cancer with respect to genetics, pathological considerations and the molecular changes within cells which are associated with the progression of the disease.

You’ll be taught by staff who are experienced researchers in areas such as cancer biology,  immunology, genetics and bioinformatics. They will help you learn how to collect, analyse, interpret and understand scientific data you must make use of in the cancer pharmacology field. This ensures you’ll not only improve your intellectual knowledge but your practical skills as well.

Overall, this programme of advanced study provides you with the necessary skills, knowledge and understanding for you to pursue a career in anti-cancer drug development.

Accreditation of Prior Learning

Any university-level qualifications or relevant experience you gain prior to starting university could count towards your course.

Modular structure

The modules listed below are for the academic year 2022/23 and represent the course modules at this time. Modules and module details (including, but not limited to, location and time) are subject to change over time.

Year 1 modules include:

Cancer Pharmacology (core, 20 credits)

Cancer: Diagnosis and Therapy (core, 20 credits)

Medical Genetics and Genomics (core, 20 credits)

Molecular Oncology (core, 20 credits)

Research Project (core, 60 credits)

Scientific Frameworks For Research (core, 20 credits)

Advanced Drug Formulation Technologies (option, 20 credits)

Bioinformatics and Molecular Modelling (option, 20 credits)

Drug Discovery Technology (option, 20 credits)

Where this course can take you

Our graduates primarily go on to pursue a career in anti-cancer drug development in academia or the pharmaceutical industry. The programme also provides an excellent basis for further research or study.