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Masters in Pharmacy in UK: Top Universities, Courses, Cost, Requirements, Eligibility & Scholarships

The Masters in Pharmacy in UK is one of the top choices for international students in 2025. Over 20 GPhC-accredited universities offer programs that combine theory, lab work, and practical training, providing exposure to modern labs, hospital placements, and collaborations with top pharmaceutical companies. 

Tuition fees vary depending on the type of university, with public universities charging £20,000 – £35,000 per year (INR 24 – 42 lakh) and private universities charging £35,000 – £50,000 per year (INR 42 – 60 lakh). Many top universities also offer scholarships covering 30–50% of tuition for meritorious students. 

Graduates can work as hospital pharmacists, clinical researchers, regulatory affairs specialists, or in pharmaceutical R&D, earning entry-level salaries of £40,000 – £50,000 per year (INR 48 – 60 lakh), and senior positions can earn £60,000 – £80,000 per year (INR 72 – 95 lakh)

With strong links to companies like GSK, AstraZeneca, and Pfizer, and opportunities in emerging fields such as pharmacogenomics, personalized medicine, and drug formulation, students have excellent career prospects and high employability after completing their master’s degree. 

Key Highlights for Masters in Pharmacy in the UK (2025): 

Feature 

Details 

Lab & Research Facilities  State-of-the-art pharmacology and pharmaceutical labs 
Student-to-Faculty Ratio  12:1 – 15:1 across top universities 
International Student Intake  30–40% of students in pharmacy master’s programs 
Internship Duration  3–6 months hospital or industry internships included 
Research Output  50–100 peer-reviewed publications per year per leading university 
Professional Accreditation  All programs recognized by General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) 

Now, let us focus on the best universities offering masters in pharmacy in UK. 

Top Universities Offering Masters in Pharmacy in the UK 

The UK is a top destination for students pursuing a Masters in Pharmacy. Universities in UK offer programs that provide excellent lab work, hospital placements, and industry collaborations. Most classes have 15–30 students, giving personal attention and practical learning opportunities. 

Top 10 Universities for Masters in Pharmacy in the UK (2025) 

The table below lists leading universities in the UK for Masters in Pharmacy, along with their global QS World Ranking for 2026: 

University 

QS World Ranking (2026) 

King’s College London  #31 
University of Nottingham  #97 
University of Manchester  #35 
University of Edinburgh  #34 
University of Glasgow  #79 
University of Liverpool  #147 
University of Birmingham  #76 
University of Leeds  #86 
Queen’s University Belfast  #199 
University of Southampton  #87 

Besides these, private universities such as University of Notre Dame, Bond University, and Torrens University Australia have pharmacy programs gaining popularity among international students. 

Popular Masters in Pharmacy Specializations in the UK 

Students pursuing a Masters in Pharmacy in the UK can choose from a variety of specializations to align with their career goals. 

Here are the most popular specializations: 

  • Clinical Pharmacy 
  • Pharmaceutical Sciences 
  • Pharmacology 
  • Industrial Pharmacy 
  • Regulatory Affairs 
  • Pharmacogenomics 
  • Drug Development 
  • Formulation Sciences 

Masters in Pharmacy Course Curriculum in the UK  

Masters in Pharmacy programs in the UK last 12–24 months and are offered in full-time or part-time formats. The curriculum is modular, allowing students to mix core courses, electives, and practical work. 

Here is the general course curriculum:  

Curriculum Component 

Details 

Core Courses  Advanced Pharmacology, Pharmaceutics, Medicinal Chemistry, Drug Delivery, Pharmacokinetics 
Electives  Regulatory Affairs, Clinical Trials, Pharmacogenomics, Biotechnology 
Practical Projects & Internships  Lab-based projects, hospital placements, industry internships 
Research & Dissertation  Independent research project in chosen specialization 
Program Format  Full-time: 12–24 months (2–4 semesters)  
Part-time: 24–36 months (4–6 semesters) 

Now, let us know how to apply for masters in pharmacy in the UK. 

How to Apply for Masters in Pharmacy in the UK 

Applying for a Masters in Pharmacy in the UK involves several clear steps.  Most universities start their programs in September or January, and international students are encouraged to apply 6–9 months before the start date. 

Step-by-step Application Process: 

  1. Research Universities and Programs – Identify universities offering your preferred specialization in pharmacy. Check program duration, fees, and research opportunities. 
  2. Check Academic Eligibility – Ensure you meet the bachelor’s degree and grade requirements. Review any English proficiency criteria. 
  3. Prepare Required Tests – Some universities may require English tests like IELTS (7.0) or TOEFL, or additional subject assessments. 
  4. Gather Documents – Collect transcripts, degree certificates, CV, statement of purpose, and letter of recommendation
  5. Submit Application – Apply online directly through the university portal.  
  6. Attend Interview (if required) – Some universities may interview applicants online or in person to evaluate motivation and experience. 
  7. Receive Admission Decision – Wait for the acceptance letter and confirm your seat by paying any enrollment deposit. 

Eligibility Criteria for Masters in Pharmacy in the UK 

Applicants usually need: 

  • A bachelor’s degree in pharmacy, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related life sciences field 
  • A minimum grade of 2:1 (or equivalent) 
  • English proficiency: IELTS 6.5–7.0 or TOEFL scores as required 
  • Some programs may prefer research experience or lab work 

Documents Required for Masters in Pharmacy in the UK 

To complete your application, you will need to prepare and submit the following documents: 

  • Academic transcripts from all previous studies 
  • Bachelor’s degree or provisional certificate 
  • 2–3 recommendation letters from academic or professional references 
  • Statement of purpose detailing motivation, career goals, and research interests 
  • CV/resume with academic background and internships 
  • English proficiency test scores (IELTS or TOEFL) 
  • Optional: research papers, publications, or project reports 

Cost of Studying Masters in Pharmacy in the UK 

Tuition for a Masters in Pharmacy in the UK varies by university, generally covering course materials, lab access, and research opportunities.  

Here are some of the top universities and their average tuition fees: 

University 

Average Tuition Fees 

Intakes 

University College London (UCL)  £42,000 (INR 50.1 lakh)  Sep 
University of Manchester  £35,500 (INR 42.4 lakh)  Sep, Jan 
King’s College London  £40,500 (INR 48.3 lakh)  Sep 
University of Nottingham  £32,000 (INR 38.2 lakh)  Sep, Jan 
University of Birmingham  £30,500 (INR 36.4 lakh)  Sep 

Note: Tuition fees are approximate and may vary depending on specialization, exchange rates, and program structure. 

Cost of Living in the UK 

Major costs include rent, food, transportation, utilities, and leisure activities.  

Here is an overview of monthly cost of living in UK: 

Expense 

Approximate Cost 

Rent (1-bedroom apartment, city centre)  £1,015 (INR 12.1 lakh) 
Rent (1-bedroom apartment, outside city centre)  £833 (INR 9.9 lakh) 
Food & Groceries  £200–£350 (INR 2.4–4.2 lakh) 
Transportation (monthly pass)  £70 (INR 83,500) 
Utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage)  £238 (INR 2.84 lakh) 
Internet & Mobile  £45 (INR 53,700) 
Gym / Fitness  £35 (INR 41,800) 
Leisure / Entertainment  £50–£100 (INR 59,650–11.93 lakh) 

Note: These costs are approximate and may vary depending on the city, personal lifestyle, and currency fluctuations. 

Scholarships and Financial Aid for Masters in Pharmacy in the UK 

Studying a Master’s in Pharmacy in the UK can be costly, but scholarships ease the burden. International students, including Indians, can access merit-based, need-based, government-funded, and university-specific scholarships.  

Some awards cover tuition fully, while others provide living support of around £1,000–£1,500 per month (INR 12–18L yearly)

Here are some of the top scholarships for Indian students: 

Scholarship Name 

Eligibility 

Funding 

Chevening Scholarships  Academic excellence + leadership  Full tuition + living allowance 
Commonwealth Scholarships  Students from Commonwealth nations  Covers tuition, airfare, and stipend 
GREAT Scholarships  For Indian students in specific UK universities  £10,000 (INR 10L) towards tuition 
Rhodes Scholarships  Exceptional academic + leadership record  Full tuition + living costs 
University-specific Pharmacy Scholarships  High merit or research potential  Partial to full fee waivers 

Now, let us know about the jobs in UK for Indians after MS in Pharmacy. 

Career Opportunities After Masters in Pharmacy in the UK 

A Masters in Pharmacy in the UK prepares graduates for diverse roles in healthcare, research, and the pharmaceutical industry. Job opportunities span across hospitals, clinical research, regulatory affairs, and drug development, with strong demand both in the UK and internationally. 

Some of the most common roles and salaries include: 

Job Role 

Approximate Annual Salary (£ / INR) 

Hospital Pharmacist  £35,000–£45,000 (INR 36L–47L) 
Clinical Research Associate  £32,000–£42,000 (INR 33L–44L) 
Regulatory Affairs Specialist  £38,000–£50,000 (INR 39L–52L) 
Pharmaceutical Scientist (R&D)  £40,000–£55,000 (INR 41L–57L) 
Drug Safety Officer  £30,000–£42,000 (INR 31L–44L) 
Medical Science Liaison  £45,000–£60,000 (INR 47L–62L) 

Source: Glassdoor UK, Prospects.ac.uk; salaries vary depending on role, location, and experience. 

Top Employers for Masters in Pharmacy Graduates in the UK 

Graduates are recruited by leading hospitals, pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and regulatory authorities. 

Company/Institution 

Sector 

NHS Trusts  Hospitals & Healthcare 
GSK  Pharmaceuticals 
AstraZeneca  Pharmaceuticals 
Pfizer  Pharmaceuticals 
University Research Labs  Academic Research 
Biotech Startups  Research & Development 
MHRA (Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency)  Regulatory Affairs 
EMA (European Medicines Agency)  Regulatory Affairs 

Note: Many graduates also pursue roles in global pharma companies or research hubs outside the UK, making this degree highly versatile. 

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61 results found

MSc by Research in Pharmacology

University of Oxford, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 33.37L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    OCT 2025
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MPharm Pharmacy

University of Manchester, UK

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 96.72L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-7.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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MSc by research Physiology, Pharmacology and Neuroscience

University of Bristol, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year 11 Months
  • FEES
    INR 26.70L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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Genomic Approaches to Drug Discovery MSc

The University of Sheffield, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 28.47L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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Pharmacy MPharm Honours (B230)

Newcastle University, UK

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 24.34L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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MSc by Research Pharmacy

University of Reading, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 24.64L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.5
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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MPhil in Pharmacy

Queens University Belfast, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 22.17L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-6.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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PgCert Pharmaceutical Quality & Good Manufacturing Practice

University of Strathclyde, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year 8 Months
  • FEES
    INR 2.18L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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Pharmacy, MPharm (Hons)

Swansea University, UK

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 16.88L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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Pharmacology and Drug Discovery MSc with professional experience

Coventry University, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year 8 Months
  • FEES
    INR 19.32L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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MSc Pharmaceutical Science

Anglia Ruskin University, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 17.50L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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Pharmacy MPharm

Aston University, UK

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 20.00L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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Pharmaceutical Sciences MSC

Ulster University, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 17.50L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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MSc Pharmaceutical Science (with professional placement)

Kingston University London, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year 11 Months
  • FEES
    INR 18.20L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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MPharm (Hons) Pharmacy

University of Portsmouth, UK

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 18.28L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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MSc Pharmaceutical Development with Business Management

Keele University, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 24.17L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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Pharmacy (OSPAP) PGDip

University of Brighton, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 13.60L/yr
  • EXAMS
    IELTS-7.0
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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Industrial Pharmaceutics, MSc

University of Central Lancashire, UK

  • DURATION
    1 Year
  • FEES
    INR 14.47L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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Pharmacy MPharm (Hons)

De Montfort University, UK

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 15.21L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    SEP 2025
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MPharm Pharmacy

University of Lincoln, UK

  • DURATION
    4 Years
  • FEES
    INR 15.85L/yr
  • EXAMS
    -
  • INTAKE SESSION
    -
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