Pharmacy
School of Pharmacy
Faculty of Health


Last Updated 20 September 2013

Principal Course Timetable Blocks 5


Pharmacy Single Honours - Level 1 Modules

Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# PHA-10014 MPharm Programme Stage 1 C M 60 120
The Stage 1 programme provides a truly integrated and fully contextualised introduction to the Keele MPharm degree. The programme is based upon a single 120-credit module that comprises three cycles of learning, assessment and reflection, and all topics progress logically and coherently with patient-oriented themes. The principal aim is to develop knowledge and skills in a wide variety of disciplines by demonstrating the linkages between seemingly disparate topics in science and practice that underpin all subsequent learning. Rather than packaging material into small, discrete modules, the Stage 1 programme allows students to develop a deeper understanding of the topics covered: for example, examination of the structure and function of DNA and mRNA is preceded by studies in the basic chemistry which governs chemical bonding and molecular structure, and is followed by in-depth analyses of genetics and patient care. Studies in metabolism are underpinned by the principles of structure and bonding, and are delivered alongside topics in bioenergetics and reaction kinetics. Studies in pharmacy practice are supported throughout the programme by practical dispensing classes and developing topics in the essential and pharmaceutical sciences. In this way, the linkages between all strands of the programme are made clear and students equipped to study the later levels of the course. Within the three cycles of learning and assessment material has been contextualised into three broad contexts: those of individual people/patients, of people/patients as members of families, and of wider populations. This is strengthened in later cycles by focussing upon particular patient groups, and upon specific diseases which affect these groups. Throughout, the relevance of each group of teaching sessions to the healthcare of the individual, family or population will be highlighted.

Pharmacy Single Honours - Level 2 Modules

Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
# PHA-20009 MPharm Programme Stage 2 C M 60 120
The MPharm Stage 2 programme continues to provide a truly integrated and fully contextualised course of study as part of the Keele MPharm degree. In an identical manner to the Stage 1 programme, the Stage 2 programme is based upon a single 120-credit module that comprises cycles of learning, assessment and reflection, and all topics progress logically and coherently with patient-oriented themes. The principal aim is to further develop knowledge and skills in a wide variety of disciplines by demonstrating the linkages between applied topics in science and practice that underpin all subsequent learning. The MPharm Stage 2 programme allows students to further develop a deeper understanding of the topics covered at Stage 1 and see how they are applied in the pharmaceutical sciences and pharmacy practice. Topics are sometimes highlighted with overt links to Stage 1; for example, aspects of physical chemistry and the analysis of small organic molecules is fundamental to an appreciation of the Pharmaceutical Science and Formulation theme in Cycle 1, and fundamental studies of metabolism lead to a deeper understanding of metabolic interrelationships and the metabolism of xenobiotics in the Pharmacology and Drug Action theme of Cycle 2. Similarly, the dispensing course at Stage 2 follows on directly from the equivalent theme in Stage 1. Also included in the Stage 2 programme is a visit to a pharmaceutical company that specialises in liquid formulations so students will be able to experience the manufacture of pharmaceuticals on an industrial scale.

Pharmacy Single Honours - Level 3 Modules

Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PHA-30010 MPharm Programme Stage 3 C M 60 120
Stage 3 of the MPharm programme has been consolidated into one single 120-credit unit, enabling a continuum of learning that is centred upon the development of key clinical and therapeutic skills. The white paper "Pharmacy for England", the document "Life Sciences Blueprint" and the GPhC proposals for pharmacists' education prior to registration, steer the view that the MPharm curriculum must be further developed to meet the demands of the future Pharmacy workforce, primarily through the enhancement of clinical pharmacy and pharmacology content. This enhancement provides many opportunities to increase students' engagement with therapeutics but the revised Keele MPharm Stage 3 programme can take this further, by developing the work that is already in hand to better direct integrated study of pharmacology, pharmaceutics and therapeutics in the context of patient care.

Pharmacy Single Honours - Level 4 Modules

Semester 1-2 C/O TYP ECTSCATS
PHA-40120 MPharm Programme Stage 4 C M 60 120
This module aims to further develop students' core skills in relation to the practice and science of pharmacy in the context of clinical care of patients. The module completes the implementation of the plan to create a modern, integrated and fully contextualised MPharm course, continuing a course structure that will be familiar to students progressing from previous years. The structure, of one year-long fully integrated programme of study, allows material to be delivered in a coherent and logical order, and enables effective monitoring and feedback mechanisms. Students will also continue to explore specialisms within pharmacy, including research and sector-specific practice. On completion of this module students will be fully prepared to enter their pre-registration training year.

C Compulsory Core Module
O Optional Core Module
EP Programme Elective Module
EA Approved Elective Module
EF Free-Standing Elective Module
M Mixed Assessment e.g. a mixture of essay(s) and examination, with the latter's weighting below 90%.
E Examination, providing 90% or more of the mark.
C Continuous Assessment e.g. essay(s) or practical work (as appropriate).
+ Available to qualified non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students but there may be a restriction on the number of places available
~ Specific pre-requisite(s) needed by non-principal, Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students wishing to take these modules
# Not normally available to Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students (except by prior negotiation with Departmental Tutor)
Note: Modules not marked with a # are available to suitably qualified Erasmus, Exchange and Study Abroad students.