UNIVERSITY OF LEEDS · UNITED KINGDOM
MSc Drug Discovery and Development
Master's · Taught in en
At a glance
12 mo
Duration
6.5
IELTS
€41k
Tuition / yr
en
Language
Master's
Level
- 77thTop 100 University in the World (QS World Rankings 2027)
- 12 MonthsFull-time duration
- Specialise based on your interestsChoose your pathway
- Substantive research projectGain research expertise
- Expert teachingAcademics and industry professionals
- Close pharmaceutical linksReal-world industry insight
This Master of Science (MSc) program focuses on the critical processes of discovering and developing new drugs to address emerging health challenges. Drug discovery involves identifying potential new medications, while drug development ensures these are brought to market safely and effectively. This interdisciplinary program covers a broad spectrum of fields within the pharmaceutical industry, including pharmacology, biochemistry, chemistry, clinical research, and pharmaceutical commercialisation. Students can tailor their studies to focus on areas like medicinal chemistry, molecular pharmacology, or preclinical and clinical drug development, preparing them for careers in the pharmaceutical sector, biotech companies, contract research organisations, regulatory bodies, or further research.
Curriculum
Modules cover the entire drug discovery and development pipeline, providing an integrated understanding of the process. The course structure involves compulsory modules and a selection of optional modules, allowing for specialisation. A significant research project forms a core part of the MSc.
- Year 1
- Introduction to Pharmaceutical Science and Commerce
- Research Planning and Scientific Communication
- Drug Development: from candidate to patient
- Theoretical and Practical Foundations of Drug Discovery
- Modern Drug Discovery
- Advanced Biomolecular Technologies
- Medical Diagnostics
- Treatment of Infectious Disease and Cancer
- Protein Engineering Laboratory Project
- Bioscience MSc Research Project
- Animal Models in Drug Development
- Structure-based Drug Discovery
- Advanced Topics in Chemistry (15 Credits)
- Advanced Topics in Chemistry (Examined S2)
- Advanced Practical and Research Skills for Medicinal Chemists
- Cancer Drug Development
- MSc Research Project
Careers
Graduates are well-prepared for diverse roles within the pharmaceutical industry and related sectors.
- Pharmaceutical sector
- Small biotech companies
- Contract research organisations
- Government regulatory bodies
Frequently asked questions
- What are the academic entry requirements for the MSc Drug Discovery and Development program?
- Applicants should have a 2:1 (hons) Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject such as chemistry, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, pharmacy, or pharmacology. A 2:2 may be considered if relevant module marks are at a 2:1 level.
- What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
- International applicants must achieve an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. Pre-sessional English courses are available for those who do not meet these requirements.
- What are the tuition fees for the MSc Drug Discovery and Development program?
- The total tuition fee for Home students is £14,500, and for International students, it is £35,500. These fees cover the entire program.
- How long does the MSc Drug Discovery and Development program take to complete?
- This is a full-time program with a duration of 12 months.
- What is the application deadline for international students requiring a Student visa?
- Applicants requiring a Student visa are recommended to submit their results by 31 July. Interviews may be part of the selection process.
- What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in the pharmaceutical sector, small biotech companies, contract research organizations, and government regulatory bodies. The program equips them for diverse roles within the pharmaceutical industry and related sectors.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's DegreeA 2:1 (hons) in a relevant subject area (e.g., chemistry, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, pharmacy, pharmacology). A 2:2 may be considered if the applicant has 2:1 level marks in relevant modules.
IELTS6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.
International students who do not meet the English language requirements may be eligible for pre-sessional English courses offered by the university, including online and on-campus options of varying lengths.
Fees
Tuition (international)£35,500 (Total)
Tuition (home)£14,500 (Total)
Living—
The fees listed are the total fees for the program.
How to apply
1. Complete the Online Application FormSubmit the Taught Postgraduate Study online application form.
2. Prepare Supporting DocumentsGather your CV, degree transcripts, degree certificate (if completed), English language qualifications (if applicable), passport copy (for overseas students), and a supporting statement.
3. Submit Your ApplicationUpload all required documents through the online system. Consider submitting your results as soon as possible, especially if you require a Student visa.
4. InterviewsApplicants may be interviewed as part of the selection process.
Frequently asked questions
What are the academic entry requirements for the MSc Drug Discovery and Development program?
+
Applicants should have a 2:1 (hons) Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject such as chemistry, biochemistry, biomedical sciences, pharmacy, or pharmacology. A 2:2 may be considered if relevant module marks are at a 2:1 level.
What are the English language proficiency requirements for international students?
+
International applicants must achieve an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component. Pre-sessional English courses are available for those who do not meet these requirements.
What are the tuition fees for the MSc Drug Discovery and Development program?
+
The total tuition fee for Home students is £14,500, and for International students, it is £35,500. These fees cover the entire program.
How long does the MSc Drug Discovery and Development program take to complete?
+
This is a full-time program with a duration of 12 months.
What is the application deadline for international students requiring a Student visa?
+
Applicants requiring a Student visa are recommended to submit their results by 31 July. Interviews may be part of the selection process.
What career paths can graduates pursue after completing this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in the pharmaceutical sector, small biotech companies, contract research organizations, and government regulatory bodies. The program equips them for diverse roles within the pharmaceutical industry and related sectors.