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The science of drugs

With the challenge and demand for new medicines, the contribution of pharmacology to finding better and safer drugs becomes all the more vital. 

Developed together with the pharmaceutical industry, our BSc Pharmacology is ideal for anyone who is interested in meeting this challenge and exploring how drugs work. 

Your career

The school has close links to industry and we are situated close to many major pharmaceutical industry headquarters, giving you ample opportunity to find employment.

Industry-relevant courses

We have worked closely with industry to develop programmes that produce highly employable pharmacologists, with the skills employers want and need.  

The core curricula

We follow the curriculum set out by the British Pharmacological Society, so you can be assured that the programme will be thorough and recognised by employers. 

Our facilities

Our new Health and Life Sciences building offers state-of-the-art research and teaching laboratories, seminar rooms, and plenty of study and social space.

Student-focused approach

Learn more about studying with us by reading the inspiring stories of our students. 

High-ranking institution

The University is ranked 10th in the UK for pharmacy and pharmacology (Daily Mail University Guide 2025).

Welcome to Pharmacology

Tobi came to one of our Open Days where he immediately felt at home and connected to the student community.

Watch Tobi's video to find out more about studying Pharmacology at Reading.

Our research

97% of our research is of international standing (Research Excellence Framework 2021, combining 4*, 3* and 2* submissions – Allied Health Professions, Dentistry, Nursing and Pharmacy).

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.

Our teaching

Teaching and research at the Reading School of Pharmacy is delivered by a team of dynamic academics and pharmacists who are experts in their field. 

We use diverse and integrated teaching methods that combine science with practice, and use research-led case studies in our teaching. We equip students with the skills to apply their knowledge to real situations and current challenges. 

How you'll study

Learn through a combination of lectures, tutorials, practical classes and workshops, and carry out an interdisciplinary research project with supervision from a researcher in the School.

Read Sakthi's story

Sakthi teaches on the BSc Pharmacology programme. He brings the subject to life using his research and every year undergraduates can assist him on his research with molecule tests and data collection.

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.