Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the scientific study of drugs and their action on biological systems, ranging from genes and cells up to tissues and even human populations. A drug is any substance given to a human or animal with the intention of changing the state of body function: to relieve pain, treat cancer, eliminate infection or improve health. Pharmacology is also concerned with the use of drugs as investigative tools to obtain a better understanding of cellular and physiological processes in both health and disease. At UCD, Pharmacology students will have the opportunity to take part in drug development research.

Information on pathways, internships and careers is available in the Undergraduate Courses Brochure (PDF).

Pharmacology is one of the degree subjects in the Biological, Biomedical & Biomolecular Sciences stream of the common entry Science course. After meeting the requirements for their preferred stream(s) in first year and studying at least two subjects in second year, students submit their degree subject preferences. While we aim to accommodate student preferences, places can be competitive.

For more information on choosing a degree major at the end of Second Year, visit the Biological, Biomedical & Biomolecular Sciences stream page.

This is a sample set of modules that a Pharmacology student could study each year in UCD.

First Year

• Scientific Enquiry
• Cell Biology & Genetics
• Basis of Organic and Biological Chemistry
• Biomedical Sciences
• Biology in Action
• Life on Earth
• Linear Algebra for Science
• Calculus for Science
• Optional Science Modules
• Elective Module

Second Year

• Biomolecular Lab Skills
• Molecular Genetics & Biotechnology
• Biomolecular Sciences
• Pharmacology: Biomedical Science of Drugs
• Chemistry for Biologists
• + modules for 2 other Science Subjects
• Elective Modules

Third Year

• Cell Signalling
• Chemotherapeutic Agents
• Pharmacology of Neurodegenerative & Psychiatric Illness
• Data Modelling for Science
• Drug Action in Body Systems
• Toxicology
• Advanced Nervous System Pharmacology
• Molecular Pharmacology
• Optional Science Modules
• Elective Modules

Fourth Year

• Research Project
• Advanced Cardiovascular Pharmacology
• Advanced Neuropharmacology
• Advanced Pharmacology of Cancer
• Gene Regulation
• Emerging therapies
• Drug Discovery & Development
• Advanced Renal Pharmacology

Timetables & Assessment
Each student will have their own timetable based on their individual module selection. This is a full-time course and classes may include lectures, practicals and tutorials, depending on the subjects. Students will also be expected to study independently (autonomous student learning). Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.

International study opportunities in third and fourth year to date have included univerisities in Australia, USA and Denmark including University of Melbourne, University of Washington, Seattle, and University of Copenhagen.

Career opportunities for graduates include working in pharmaceutical companies, drug regulatory bodies such as the Irish Medicines Board, the biotechnology sector, chemical safety and toxicology. Graduates also often pursue MSc or PhD programmes.

Students have an opportunity to undertake an industry research placement for 6 months commencing in the Summer following Third Year (i.e. June-December). Assessment is based on a thesis, oral presentations and a laboratory report.

Students in recent years have completed internships in the Teva Pharmaceuticals, Pfizer and Alexion.

Placements are secured on a competitive basis and are subject to change each year.

More information about the internship module and application process.

• Level 5/6 QQI-FET
• Open Learning Entry Route
• Mature Entry Route
• DARE Entry Route
• HEAR Entry Route
• University Access

Pharmacology is a prominent and distinguished discipline in the realm of biomedical research, offering an interactive and practical field of study. Neuropharmacology and the drug development pipeline are two key disciplines that have always fascinated me, and as part of my final year research project, I had the opportunity to conduct my own research in epilepsy, as well as pursue an internship at the Conway Institute in third year within the same area. I hope to work in clinical trials involving neurodegenerative and neuropsychiatric disorders in the near future.

Fatima, Graduate