University of Reading cookie policy

We use cookies on reading.ac.uk to improve your experience, monitor site performance and tailor content to you

Read our cookie policy to find out how to manage your cookie settings

Studying pharmacology at Reading

Pharmacology is the science of drugs and their effect on living systems. Pharmacology reveals the power of how drugs work, linking subjects such as chemistry, physiology, pathology and pharmacology.

Our courses

Our new BSc Pharmacology/Pharmacology with a Year in Industry programme opened for applications in September 2020. The programme has been designed alongside the core curriculum published by the British Pharmacological Society to respond to the growing demand for industrial and research pharmacologists.

BSc Pharmacology

We've aligned our programmes with the British Pharmacological Society's core curricula, providing you with knowledge and skills that are recognised by employers.

BSc Pharmacology with a Year in Industry

Develop the knowledge and skills to work as a pharmacologist within the pharmaceutical or life sciences industries with our new BSc Pharmacology with a Year in Industry.

BSc Pharmacology with Foundation

Study our BSc Pharmacology with a foundation year to prepare you for your studies. 


Our collaborative approach

Pharmacologists work closely with a wide variety of other disciplines that make up modern biomedical research, including neuroscience, molecular and cell biology, immunology and mathematics. 

Here at the University of Reading, we have particular expertise in a neurodegeneration, cardiovascular pharmacology, regenerative medicine and mathematical modelling of drug action.

Studying pharmacology

Your career

In the UK, pharmaceuticals remain one of the highest research and development spending sectors. As such, there is a need for well-trained pharmacologists in drug discovery, clinical trials, manufacturing, regulatory affairs, patenting, and sales and marketing.

Fees, funding  and scholarships

There is a variety of funding support available to our undergraduate students. You may be eligible for government loans, grants or bursaries. 

Students from the UK can receive government loans to help towards tuition fees and living costs. UK students may also be eligible for other grants and bursaries depending on their circumstances. 

Undergraduate fees and funding

Why study with us

Gain hands-on experience in our brand new Health and Life Sciences building, Clinical Skills Suite. Benefit from our strong links with employers and be guided through your pharmacology degree by our supportive and inspiring teaching staff.

Meet our experts

Our staff work tirelessly to help you gain the knowledge and practical experience to excel. They are experts in their field, giving you an excellent opportunity to learn. 

Our research

Research within the Reading School of Pharmacy brings together experts from across the health sciences with the goal of improving how we use existing medicines and developing the new drugs of tomorrow.