PHA-10014 - Module Specification
School of Pharmacy and Bioengineering
Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences

Programme/Approved Electives for 2020/21

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2020/21

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 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.

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, and hence prepare the student for Stage 2 of the MPharm program.

Intended Learning Outcomes

- Apply an integrated approach towards patient care which links pharmaceutical science and pharmacy practice
- Describe the concepts of health, illness, public health and the development of health policy, including the role of medicines in society
- Describe the structure and function of healthcare provision in the UK, including the regulation of healthcare professionals
- Recognise the key characteristics of a responsible and capable healthcare professional, including skills, attitudes and values
- Describe the roles of other healthcare professionals and the importance of interprofessional collaboration
- Demonstrate an understanding of the key features of the profession of pharmacy and the varied career profiles of pharmacists
- Describe and apply the underpinning legal framework for the sale and supply of medicines in the UK
- Demonstrate an ability to make sound and informed decisions in accordance with basic ethical principles
- Describe the basic architecture and cellular diversity of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
- Explain the essential aspects of metabolism at a cellular level

- Describe the different types of inter- and intracellular signalling systems in eukaryotic cells
- Describe the central role of thermodynamics, chemical kinetics and electrochemistry in biological systems
- Describe the cellular and molecular interactions involved in the formation and function of tissues
- Describe the role of genes in living organisms and how inheritance of genes affects human body systems
- Describe the normal anatomy and physiology of the major body systems
- Describe the structure and function of common receptor types
- Interpret pharmacological data to identify drug-target interactions
- Explain the common mechanisms by which drugs interact with physiological systems to exert pharmacological and adverse effects
- Interpret common pathological symptoms associated with abnormal functions in body systems
- Recognise and describe the structures and functions of molecules and their reactivity
- Describe how functional groups affect the physicochemical properties of molecules
- Describe how the physicochemical properties of molecules affect their formulation into medicines and the route of administration to patients
- Describe why a variety of dosage forms is necessary and the relative merits and demerits of the available forms
- Determine the purity and composition of compounds using appropriate practical and analytical techniques
- Describe the process of drug design and development from identification of target to formulation
- Describe and explain biopharmaceutics in terms of the relationship between dosage form and interaction of the drug substance with human physiology
- Demonstrate a high level of laboratory skill and apply a knowledge of the skills necessary for the successful completion of appropriate manipulative practical exercises
- Demonstrate competence in pharmaceutical calculations
- Communicate complex concepts effectively, both orally and in writing in a manner, that reflects professional practice
: 1,2,3,4,5,6,7

Study hours

Large- and small-group formal teaching sessions: 300 hours
Skills-based practical work and placements: 150 hours
Directed private study: 450 hours
Non-directed private study, revision and assessment: 300 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment