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

Programme/Approved Electives for 2025/26

Available as a Free Standing Elective

Co-requisites

None

Prerequisites

None

Barred Combinations

None

Description for 2025/26

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 two semesters of learning, assessment and reflection. All topics progress logically and coherently with patient-orientated themes and underpin all subsequent learning. The principal aim is to develop knowledge and skills in a wide variety of disciplines and demonstrate the linkages between these seemingly disparate topics in science and practice.
Rather than packaging material into small, discrete modules, the Stage 1 programme allows you 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 pharmacy skills 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 you are equipped to study the later levels of the course. Dedicated placement learning hours will further support and enrich your learning experience.

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 programme.

Intended Learning Outcomes

Describe the concepts of health, illness, public health and the development of health policy, including the role of medicines in society: 3,4
Describe the structure and function of healthcare provision in the UK, including the regulation of healthcare professionals: 3,4
Recognise, and describe the skills, attitudes and values of healthcare professionals: 3,4,5
Describe and apply the underpinning legal framework for the sale and supply of human medicines in the UK: 3,4,5
Demonstrate an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of the different members of the prescribing team and the responsibilities of a pharmacist prescriber: 5
Describe the legal, policy, professional, ethical and clinical governance frameworks for accountability and responsibility in relation to pharmacist prescribing: 3,4
Describe the basic architecture, metabolic processes and cellular diversity of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells: 1,3,4
Describe the different types of inter- and intracellular signalling systems in eukaryotic cells: 1,3,4
Describe the roles of thermodynamics, chemical kinetics and electrochemistry in biological systems: 3,4
Describe the cellular and molecular interactions involved in the formation and function of tissues: 3,4
Describe the structure and function of common receptor types and how drugs interact with these: 3,4,6
Interpret pharmacological data to identify drug-target interactions: 1,2,3,4
Describe the normal anatomy and physiology of the major body systems: 3,4,6
Interpret common pathological symptoms associated with abnormal functions in body systems: 3,4,6
Describe the role of genes in living organisms and how inheritance of genes affects human body systems: 1,3,4
Determine the purity and composition of compounds using appropriate practical and analytical techniques: 2,3,4,5
Recognise and describe the structures and functions of molecules and their reactivity: 2,3,4,6
Describe how functional groups affect the physicochemical properties of molecules: 3,4,6
Describe how the physicochemical properties of molecules affect their formulation into medicines and the route of administration to patients: 3,4,6
Describe the relationship between dosage forms and the interaction of drug substances with human physiology: 1,2,3,4,6
Describe the process of drug design and development from identification of target to formulation: 1,6
Demonstrate competency in laboratory skills and apply a knowledge of the skills necessary for the successful completion of appropriate manipulative practical exercises: 2,5
Demonstrate competence in pharmaceutical calculations appropriate for this level of study: 1,2,3,4,5,6
Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing, in a manner that reflects professional practice appropriate for this level of study: 5,6
Demonstrate an ability to make sound and informed decisions in accordance with basic ethical principles: 5
Obtain informed consent before providing care and pharmacy services: 5

Study hours

Active Learning:
Large- and small-group formal teaching sessions: 360 hours
Skills-based practical work: 200 hours
Placements: 120 hours
Independent Study:
Directed private study: 280 hours
Non-directed private study, revision and assessment: 240 hours

School Rules

None

Description of Module Assessment