Top UK Universities For Pharmacy - Ranking & League Table

Looking To Study Pharmacy In The UK?
Top UK Universities For Pharmacy

Here’s our full guide on the top universities for Pharmacy in the UK. We have curated a list of high-ranking universities which offer affordable, globally-recognised qualifications for Pharmacy.

Table of Contents

UK University League Table For Pharmacy (Updated 2024 Rankings)

The University League Table for Pharmacy shows some of the top ranking universities to study Pharmacy in the UK. We’ve compiled a list of universities you should look out for, sorted by fees, duration, country ranking as well as subject ranking.

UniversityCourse NameFees (£)DurationSubject RankingUK RankingTEF Ranking
Queen's University BelfastPharmacy MPharm£23,1004 Years217-
University of NottinghamPharmacy MPharm£27,2004 Years728Gold
Newcastle UniversityPharmacy MPharm Honours£25,2004 Years1630Gold
University of East AngliaMPharm Pharmacy£26,1004 Years1523Gold
Keele UniversityPharmacy MPharm£25,4004 Years2765Gold
University of BirminghamMPharm Pharmacy£27,1804 Years1114Gold

Why Study Pharmacy In The UK?

If you have an interest in chemistry and medicine, pharmacy and pharmacology might be the subject for you. Students in the first year of studies will study foundational subjects related to medicine and biochemistry. In the years after that, you will be studying subjects such as chemistry, medical sciences, molecular biology, physiology, and mechanisms of diseases. Many universities will offer a Master’s programme which combines undergraduate with postgraduate studies. This is largely because a Master’s degree will be advantageous if you intend to pursue a career in research.

In general, a degree in pharmacy may include or refer to a number of subjects such as:

  • Drug Dispensing
  • Dispensing Technicians
  • Pharmacy
  • Pharmacology
  • Physiological Measurement

Career Options For Pharmacy Graduates

Pharmacy graduates have a wide variety of work options to choose from. They can find employment in various sectors such as:

  • Academia
  • Hospitals
  • Medical writing
  • Pharmaceutical companies
  • Private sector
  • Research

Top Pharmacy Schools In The UK

If you are looking for an affordable and good option, the University of Dundee is a great choice for any prospective Pharmacy major as it ranks high for Pharmacology and Pharmacy courses. They offer three four-year courses in pharmacology and biological chemistry. Their pharmacology programme is focused on approaches to treatment of various illnesses whereas their biological chemistry programmes are about discovering new treatments for infections and diseases.

You could read more about the University of Dundee’s Pharmacy courses on their website or read more about the application process via UCAS here.

The University of Strathclyde is ranked third in the UK for Pharmacy programmes. Strathclyde offers seven courses with a wide range in subjects such as Pharmacology, Chemistry with Drug Discovery and Immunology. They also offer five-year Master’s programmes which is essential for pursuing a career as a biomedical scientist. You could read more about Strathclyde’s programmes on their website here.

Recommended Pharmacy Schools In The UK

The University of Bristol offers three courses in Pharmacology. Bristol is a great choice for prospective researchers as they have a great reputation for their research output. Students have the option to complete a year in the industry in their Master’s in Pharmacology programme which provides a great opportunity to understand the role that pharmacology plays in the medical and pharmaceutical profession. 

The University of Aberdeen has six courses in pharmacology. Students at Aberdeen have the option to undertake joint studies with related subjects such as immunology and biomedical sciences. Additionally, there is also the option to complete a placement year in the industry to gain first-hand experience working in a pharmaceutical company or related industries.

How To Apply To Study Pharmacy In The UK?

Step 1: Choose A University

The first step is to look for popular and high-ranking Universities in the UK which offer courses you are interested in. Refer to the table above to start your search. Things to consider when applying:

  • Location
  • Employability
  • Fees
  • Entry requirements
  • University Ranking

Step 2: Preparations

Once you have narrowed down the search to your top five universities, the first step is to prepare necessary documents and forms. This includes school leaving certificates, exam results, the UCAS application form and a written Personal Statement, among other documents that may be required.

Step 3: Submit UCAS Application

The application process for UK universities differs from local universities as applications go through an organisation known as UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. UCAS handles all admission applications to UK universities, including those submitted by international candidates like you.

To ensure a better chance of getting accepted, it is important that you prepare all the necessary documents and fill out all forms correctly. We also recommend that you apply for multiple universities simultaneously to ensure that you get your preferred offers. Read our full guide on UCAS here

More about UCAS

The entire application process might be daunting and lengthy for some, so let us help you. Make a free appointment with us today for professional assistance in submitting applications to your preferred UK universities.

UK Pharmacy University Entry Requirements

Here are some of the common entry requirements and tests a student has to pass before being accepted at a UK university to study Pharmacy.

English Language Test requirement – such as IELTS or TOEFL.

Criminal records declaration (DBS/Disclosure Scotland for Scottish Universities)

Health checks.

Entrance interviews.

Personal statement. This is a supporting document and part of your application to a UK university. Usually, you will write about what you hope to achieve studying at the course, what you plan to do after graduating and why you are applying for this specific university. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Pharmacy and pharmacology programmes typically include a wide range of subjects such pharmacology (study of drug action), chemistry, medical sciences, molecular biology, physiology, and mechanisms of diseases.

The top university for Pharmacy in the UK is the University of Cambridge as of 2024.

The common entry requirements for studying Pharmacy in the UK include English language tests, criminal record declarations, health checks, entrance interviews and submission of a personal statement.

The fees for Pharmacy degrees in the UK depends on the university and the course, but it can range between £20,000 to £24,000 per annum for international students. The ranking and location of a university might also affect tuition fee costs.

The UCAS deadline for Pharmacy programmes is 15 January on the year of admission. Do take note that the deadline for Oxford and Cambridge is 15 October.

Get Free UK Pharmacy Course Application Assistance

If you would like a free consultation on any step of the application process, contact us today or come visit us at our office in Mont Kiara, Kuala Lumpur. Book an appointment with us now!

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