PhD Pharmacy

About the course

This research area integrates science and practice in Pharmacy, providing relevant, innovative and progressive research which presents real value to the national and international pharmaceutical and healthcare communities. Three core themes underpin the work across the unit: optimisation of drug efficacy and safety, toxicity risk mitigation, and the understanding of pathological processes in relation to clinical practice. A University of Hertfordshire research degree is an internationally recognised degree signifying high levels of achievement in research. It develops extensive subject expertise and independent research skills which are honed over an extended period, depending on the level of the award. You would undertake a substantial, original research project for the duration of the degree, under the supervision and guidance of two or more academic members of staff. Your supervisory team provides guidance both in the selection of a research topic and in the conduct of the research. You are also supported by attendance at postgraduate seminar series to develop subject specific knowledge and research skills relevant to your field of research. The degree is assessed solely on the basis of the final research output, in the form of a substantial written thesis which must be "defended" in a viva. During the course of the degree, you would be given opportunities to present your work at major conferences and in refereed research publications.

Why choose this course?

An internationally recognised research qualification. Developing advanced subject expertise at postgraduate level. Develop research skills through practice and extensive research experience. Employers are looking for high calibre graduates with advanced skills who can demonstrate independence through research

Teaching methods

Research degrees are not taught programmes, however, programmes of supporting studies are a key element. The School of Pharmacy conducts high quality research in the areas of of dermal, transdermal, buccal and airway drug delivery, patient safety, medicines management, drug misuse and psycho-pharmacology. The School has a large number of postgraduate students undertaking full-time research in these disciplines leading to the awards of MSc by Research, PhD. There are also a number of industry-based graduates registered for research degrees on a full-time or part-time basis. Research in the discipline areas is headed by internationally recognised staff with positions on many national and international associations and professional bodies.