Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Science (BPharmSc)
Other Science
A course by
Otago University
A unique, lab-based, three-year bachelor’s degree equipping students with knowledge and practical skills across pharmaceutical science, covering drug discovery, design, formulation, and the pharmaceutical industry.
In-person study
Face-to-face learning in a physical classroom setting
Dunedin, Dunedin
It will take a total of 3 years
Core skills this course teaches
Specialist pharmaceutical knowledge and skills
Develop a deep understanding of the discovery, design, development, formulation, and use of drugs, and the scientific basis underlying these processes.
Practical laboratory proficiency
Gain hands-on experience and key practical skills in laboratory settings essential for careers in pharmaceutical science.
Application to contemporary challenges
Apply scientific knowledge to solve current challenges in pharmaceutical science, including drug development for global markets.
What You're Signing Up For
The Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Science at Otago is a three-year degree focused on the scientific and technological foundations for the discovery, development, formulation, and use of medicines. This lab-intensive program includes coursework in medicinal chemistry, biochemistry, anatomy, physiology, formulation science, pharmacognosy, microbiology, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics, as well as exposure to regulatory, industry and practical skills. The curriculum integrates rongoā Māori with scientific approaches to medicine, providing small class sizes, personalized instruction, and state-of-the-art facilities. The degree prepares graduates for diverse roles in the pharmaceutical and related industries and provides a pathway to postgraduate research.
Course Content
- Medicinal chemistry
- Microbiology
- Pathology
- Formulation science
- Pharmacognosy
- Pharmacology
- Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
- Drug delivery
- Chemical biology
- Natural products and medicines
- Regulatory science and pharmaceutical industry topics
- Laboratory classes and workshops
What you need to know first
University Entrance qualification
At least 16 years of age by the first day of class
English language proficiency (IELTS 6.0 overall, no band below 5.5 or equivalent)
Recommended: Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics at secondary school
What sort of industry will this job lead to
Pharmaceutical industry
Healthcare
Biotechnology
Agrichemical
Food and cosmetics industry
Future employment opportunities might be
Research scientist (drug and medicine development)
Formulation scientist in pharmaceuticals, food, cosmetics, or agrichemical industries
Regulatory affairs officer
Border control agent (drug analysis)
Clinical trials associate
Medicines marketing and sales (human, veterinary, agricultural)
Quality control chemist
Patent attorney (intellectual property)