This module will be used to emphasise the connectivity of the others modules studied at Level 4 and set the scene for study at subsequent levels, setting the context from discovering useful molecules to their application as medicines.

The module will introduce students to the scope of pharmaceutical science, introducing each of the scientific and science-related disciplines on which it depends and which students will encounter during their studies. Integral to this will be the glossary of terms and definitions upon which the field depends.
The module will also discuss the historical development of medicines, from ancient times, through medieval and renaissance ages, to the modern day, and will highlight the scientific understanding and breakthroughs that enabled each of the major advances to take place.

Students will learn about the complete pathway that starts with the identified need for a new drug, through its development, various trials to production and registration, and the subsequent monitoring and feedback.

Case studies of high impact drugs will be used to illustrate all of the above and provide students with the opportunity to undertake their own desk-based research.

Students will be required to complete one element of summative assessment.

1. Report (2000 words, 100%) – typically, this will be based upon a student’s individual research about a chosen drug LOs 1-4 (Final Assessment)

Students will be provided with formative assessment and feedback via comments made on their work.

AND REFER TO THESE TEXTS, TITLE, AUTHOR, PAGES:

Gerald M. C. (2013) The Drug Book: From Arsenic to Xanax, 250 milestones in the History of Drugs, Sterling
Li, Jie Jack (2015) Top Drugs: History, Pharmacology, Synthesis;, OUP USA
Ravina E. and Kubinyi H.(2011) The Evolution of Drug Discovery: From Traditional Medicines to Modern Drugs;, Wiley VCH

None.

None.

1. Demonstrate an understanding of the scope of pharmaceutical science and the disciplines it subsumes
(KNOWLEDGE & UNDERSTANDING)

2. Discuss the pathway from drug discovery through to patient use, emphasising the main activities and outcomes of each stage
(LEARNING)

3. Demonstrate an understanding of the historical development of pharmaceuticals, from ancient to modern times, and describe the factors that have made developments possible
(ANALYSIS)

4. For a chosen drug, demonstrate an understanding of its history, pharmacology and synthesis
(ENQUIRY, COMMUNICATION)

THESE LEARNING STRATEGIES WILL OCCUPY YOUR TIME:

This module will be delivered over 2 semesters

A total of 48 hours of contact time (2 hours per week over two semesters) will be used. This will normally comprise of a 1 hour lecture or tutor-led seminar followed by a 1 hours student-led seminar or tutorial. The former will be used to develop the foundation for students understanding, with the latter providing the opportunity for students discuss and develop their ideas and also present to the rest of the group.
102 hours of independent study will be used to research background information related to the delivery of the core material and to work on assignments.