The Pharmacology and Toxicology MSc will provide you with an advanced understanding of the development of therapeutics, for applications in many communicable, and non-communicable diseases.
The programme’s mission is around making medicines better. Through optimisation of current treatments, understanding variability in patient responses from both an efficacy and safety perspective, and formulation of advanced therapeutics such as nanomedicines and cellular therapies, and making better medicines by developing the next generation of therapeutics. All of this is underpinned by a robust understanding of the processes that govern the biodistribution, pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and safety of these new, and improved, therapeutics.
The course is led by internationally recognised experts in the field of pharmacology, toxicology, and biocompatibility from both non-clinical and clinical departments. In practice, you will be provided with in-depth teaching on the processes underlying these areas, as well as the clinical and regulatory processes aligned to them. You will utilise real-world case studies of therapeutics under development by experts involved in these research areas prior to you joining one of these teams for the implementation of your final research project.
You will gain in-depth scientific knowledge and will receive training for research that can be applied to academic, commercial and healthcare settings. In addition, you will learn digital, programming and informatic skills that are of increasing importance for research and many employers.
This master’s is for graduates from a biomedical sciences background who want to pursue a career in pharmacology and toxicology.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
This course is still subject to approval, meaning course content may change.
Compulsory modules
Pharmaceutical Toxicology 2023-24: 15 Credits
This key module in the MSc Pharmacology and Toxicology programme brings together core and novel aspects of toxicology in the context of the development of new medicines. Topics include major organ toxicities, pharmacogenetics, development of in vitro test systems, nanotoxicology and computational/systems toxicology. This builds on local research strengths (e.g. Centre for Drug Safety Science) and strong links with the pharmaceutical industry and regulatory agencies. The module includes research connected lectures and seminars, from leading academic researchers based at the University of Liverpool, as well as external speakers. The two module assessments are aimed at writing reports on topics covered in the first and second half of the module, respectively.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| INFORMATICS FOR LIFE SCIENCES (LIFE721) | 15 |
| BIOLOGICAL DATA SKILLS (LIFE707) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Students will take 30 credits from the required modules.
Students will also select one 15 credit module from the optional modules.
Compulsory modules
Experimental Medicine and Clinical Pharmacology 2023-24: 15 Credits
The module will address the early phase clinical trial period, encompassing phase I and II of the drug development pipeline, which seeks to determine the safe dose of a novel treatment that has the most promise to be effective. The methodology is distinct from that of later phase effectiveness trials (phase III onwards).
The module includes research connected lectures, workshops and structured discussions on selected texts as student-led topics. The content will focus on methods for dose-finding and early efficacy studies. The module assessments are aimed at: 1) writing a report on a selected investigational product and the methods for dose finding 2) presentation of a key factor that contributes to the determination and management of risk. The factor focused on will be selected from workshops and student-led discussions. Students will acquire a good understanding of the theoretical underpinning early-phase dose-determining clinical trials. By the end of the module, students should have the knowledge and skills required to interpret pre-clinical data sufficient to plan, and manage, a phase I clinical trial
Frontiers in Drug Delivery and Advanced Therapeutics 2023-24: 15 Credits
Key advances in novel drug delivery systems and the emergence of advanced therapeutics enabled by significant progress in biomedical science and technology are not only transforming drug administration, but also changing our definition of ‘drugs’. Organisations are adapting very quickly to take advantage of the opportunities created by these advances to tackle some of the biggest health challenges. This key module in the MSc Pharmacology and Toxicology programme will equip students with competencies that will help them advance their career in these areas. The module includes research connected lectures, seminars and workshops on selected student-led topics. Assessment will be by a written report and a presentation.
| Optional modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGY (LIFE752) | 15 |
| DIAGNOSTICS, THERAPEUTICS AND VACCINES (LIFE732) | 15 |
| PROTEOMICS METABOLOMICS AND DATA ANALYSIS (LIFE754) | 15 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
| Compulsory modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| MSC RESEARCH PROJECT (LIFE703) | 60 |
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
You will experience a range of teaching and learning methods, including lectures, seminars, workshops, data-handling and computation skills development and e-learning.
The taught components of the course are delivered by experts in their respective fields and are closely aligned to research within the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, ensuring that all teaching is research-led.
Additionally, through the final research project, you will apply the knowledge and skills you have learned in the program by working within the laboratories of these research teams, at the cutting edge of R&D in Pharmacology. This is particularly suited for those wishing to go onto a research career, supported by PhD research.
Assessment of knowledge and understanding, practical skills and transferrable skills is through a blended mix of coursework that may include practical and project reports, essays, completion of workbooks, talks, data handling sessions and posters.
All modules will provide you with feedback on your learning progress and allow for adjustment of your learning. Electronic resources available on the University virtual learning environment support learning and teaching.
At Liverpool, we take a distinctive approach to education through the Liverpool Learning Framework. This means teaching that is engaging, inclusive and designed to help you succeed during your studies and beyond.
You’ll develop specialist subject knowledge alongside the skills employers value most, including:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
We also embed key priorities across our curriculum, including AI literacy, employability, and sustainability, helping you prepare for the future and make a positive impact in the world.
We’re committed to creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment where every student can thrive.
As a Pharmacology and Toxicology student, you will benefit from the School of Biosciences experience in delivering dynamic, world-class, inspirational research-led teaching. We are a melting-pot for the study of the biological sciences, and have been for over 140 years.
From arrival to alumni, we’re with you all the way:
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Chat with our student ambassadors and ask any questions you have.
The Pharmacology and Toxicology MSc will provide you with the necessary knowledge and skills to become a professional scientist in the multidisciplinary areas of pharmacology and toxicology.
Commercial sectors such as the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and agriculture industries will be possible employers of graduates, especially with the anticipated increases in the development of new therapeutics, to meet emerging infectious diseases.
In the public sector, researchers are in demand in research institutes, government departments, the Health Service, forensic science and the Environment Agency.
For those committed to a career as a research scientist, this programme will qualify you to be able to take up PhD studies, research posts in academia or in industry or management posts in clinical trial units.
Commercial sectors such as the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and agriculture industries will be possible employers of graduates, especially with the anticipated increases in the development of new therapeutics to meet emerging infectious diseases.
In the public sector, researchers are in demand in:
For those committed to a career as a research scientist, this programme will qualify you to be able to take up PhD studies, research posts in academia or in industry or management posts in clinical trial units.
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £15,000
Part-time place, per year - £7,500
Full-time place, per year - £34,000
Part-time place, per year - £17,000
Tuition fees are for the academic year 2026/27.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,858 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies.
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
Are you a UK or Republic of Ireland student who completed your undergraduate degree at the University of Liverpool? You could receive a £1,500 tuition fee discount, subject to the full eligibility criteria. This scholarship will be awarded to all eligible students.
The scholarship will be open to two UK students in the 2026/27 academic year and is worth £5,000. Students must be studying a postgraduate course at the University of Liverpool. Those on data science or coding courses may be given priority.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in a Biological Sciences subject or equivalent. Candidates must have a scientific background acceptable to the Programme Director. |
| International qualifications |
If you hold a bachelor’s degree or equivalent, but don’t meet our entry requirements, a Pre-Master’s can help you gain a place. This specialist preparation course for postgraduate study is offered on campus at the University of Liverpool International College, in partnership with Kaplan International Pathways. Although there’s no direct Pre-Master’s route to this MSc, completing a Pre-Master’s pathway can guarantee you a place on many other postgraduate courses at The University of Liverpool. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 |
| TOEFL iBT | If you took a TOEFL test on or before 20 January 2026, you’ll need 88 overall, with minimum scores of listening 19, writing 19, reading 19 and speaking 20. If you took a TOEFL test from 21 January 2026 onwards, when a new scoring system was introduced, you’ll need 4.5 overall, with 4 or above in all components. TOEFL Home Edition not accepted. |
| Duolingo English Test | 125 overall, with writing not less than 125, speaking and reading not less than 115, and listening not below 110. For academic year 2025/26 only, we will also accept the production, literacy, comprehension and conversation score set: 120 overall, with no component below 105. |
| Pearson PTE Academic | 61 overall, with no component below 59 |
| LanguageCert Academic | 70 overall, with no skill below 65 |
| PSI Skills for English | B2 Pass with Merit in all bands |
| INDIA Standard XII | National Curriculum (CBSE/ISC) - 75% and above in English. Accepted State Boards - 80% and above in English. |
| WAEC | C6 or above |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with writing at 6.0 and no component below 5.5 | 6 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with writing at 5.5 and no component below 5.0 | 10 weeks | On campus or online |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component at 5.0 | 12 weeks | Online |
| 5.5 overall, with no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component at 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component at 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.
Discover more about the city and University.
Liverpool bursts with diversity and creativity which makes it ideal for you to undertake your postgraduate studies and access various opportunities for you and your family.
To fully immerse yourself in the university experience, living in halls will keep you close to campus where you can always meet new people. Find your home away from home.
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Last updated 5 February 2026 / / Programme terms and conditions