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Accessibility & LanguageMPharm (Pharmacy)
MPharm (Pharmacy)
, School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences- Title of Award
- MPharm
- CAO Code
- GY505
- CAO Points
- 601* (2025)
- Average Intake
- 75
- Delivery
- On Campus
- NFQ
- Level 9
- Award Type
- Major
- Next Intake
- September 2026
- Duration
- 5 years (4 years BSc Pharm, 1 year MPharm)
Why Choose This Course?
Course Information
To register as a Pharmacist in Ireland, you must hold a Masters degree in Pharmacy (MPharm).
To obtain this Masters degree, you must first register for the four-year Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy (GY505), once you have successfully completed this, you will progress to the fifth year (MPharm). Please note that an additional fee is payable in respect of this fifth year.
Once you have successfully completed year 5, and subject to sign-off by your tutor Pharmacist and an absence of Fitness to Practice issues, you will be eligible to sit the Professional Registration Exam for Pharmacy. Evidence of successful attainment of an MPharm degree and successful completion of the Professional Registration Exam, must be provided to the Irish Pharmacy regulator, the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI), when applying to be added to the register of Pharmacists. More information on this process can be found on the PSI website.
Year 1 provides an in-depth introduction to relevant sciences underpinning Pharmacy including chemistry, physiology, pharmacology, formulation science, biochemistry and anatomy. These subjects will be taught in a Pharmacy-relevant context and provide the fundamental knowledge required for later years of the programme. Students will begin to learn about the role of Pharmacists in society, in particular in protecting and advocating for patients. Students will work in simulated Pharmacy settings and will begin their journey of personal and professional development and reflective practice. Students will learn to make simple pharmaceutical formulations including mouthwashes and other liquid preparations. Students will learn about the legislation and ethical principles governing Pharmacy and will begin to discuss and debate issues of relevance to Pharmacy as well as undertaking one day of placement.
Year 2 begins to integrate core scientific knowledge with clinical Pharmacy and patient care. Case-based learning using real and simulated patients, will enhance students problem-solving, decision-making and teamwork skills. Students will begin to work with their peers from other healthcare courses on simulated clinical activities focused on patient care. Students will complete two weeks of work placement in a patient-facing setting, to apply their learning to real-life scenarios. Modules on pharmaceutical microbiology and toxicology will expand scientific knowledge. The formulation and manufacture of sterile pharmaceutical products will also be introduced, with a site visit to a pharmaceutical manufacturing plant. A module on applied data analysis will introduce research methods and give practical experience of analysing data using specific data analytics packages.
Year 3 has an emphasis on students seeking out answers for themselves and applying their knowledge to scenarios relevant to Pharmacy. This year encourages students to move from passive learning to problem-solving, in preparation for their transition to practice placements in Year 4. This year builds on knowledge of pharmaceutical science, the formulation, manufacture and regulation of medicines and includes training on the commercialisation process and visits to pharmaceutical companies. Simulated clinical activities throughout the year focus on clinical decision-making in preparation for clinical practice.
Year 4 begins with a four-month placement activity which can be in a patient-facing setting or in the pharmaceutical industry, university research, the Pharmacy or the medicines regulator. Exciting new opportunities for Pharmacists emerge constantly, meaning the diversity of placement settings increases year-on-year. In semester 2, students will have the opportunity to complete a research project giving an insight into academic research, working in multidisciplinary teams, making evidence-based decisions and presenting research results. Students will focus on medicines optimisation for complex patients and learning to work within multi-professional teams in practice.
Year 5 is future-focused, building on knowledge and skills learned in the course to apply these to potential future developments in Pharmacy. The activities in this year are largely student-led working on real-life scenarios from Pharmacy practice and industrial Pharmacy to solve-problems. This year includes an emphasis on advanced clinical skills and students developing their leadership skills. Students will complete an 8-month placement in a patient-facing setting and a placement research project.
Curriculum Information
Curriculum information relates to the current academic year (in most cases).Course and module offerings and details may be subject to change.
Glossary of Terms
- Credits
- You must earn a defined number of credits (aka ECTS) to complete each year of your course. You do this by taking all of its required modules as well as the correct number of optional modules to obtain that year's total number of credits.
- Module
- An examinable portion of a subject or course, for which you attend lectures and/or tutorials and carry out assignments. E.g. Algebra and Calculus could be modules within the subject Mathematics. Each module has a unique module code eg. MA140.
- Optional
- A module you may choose to study.
- Required
- A module that you must study if you choose this course (or subject).
- Semester
- Most courses have 2 semesters (aka terms) per year.
Year 1 (60 Credits)
RequiredPC1105: Fundamentals of Human Biology
PC1105: Fundamentals of Human Biology
Semester 1 | Credits: 10
This module provides an integrated foundation in human biology, designed for students in Medicine, Biomedical Science, and Pharmacy. It aims to develop a fundamental understanding of major human biological processes, their regulation, and their relevance to health, disease, and therapeutic interventions. By exploring core principles, this module lays the groundwork for subsequent study in Anatomy, Physiology, Pharmacology, Pharmacy and Medicine. A multidisciplinary approach will be taken, integrating cellular and molecular, cell structure and function and societal impacts of prescription drugs to meet the distinct learning needs of each discipline.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate knowledge of human biological organization, including anatomical terminology, cellular and tissue structure, and their functional relevance to physiological processes.
- Describe the principles of homeostasis, feedback control, and physiological adaptation in response to internal and external stimuli.
- Describe the principles of integrative systems physiology, preparing for advanced modules in anatomy, physiology, pharmacology, and disease mechanisms.
- Apply human biology concepts to real-world scenarios, interpreting clinical data, explaining feedback control mechanisms and evaluating the impact of pharmacological agents on human health.
- Recognise the historical & societal impacts of pharmacology and commonly used drugs
Assessments
- Written Assessment (70%)
- Continuous Assessment (30%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module PC1105: "Fundamentals of Human Biology" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredCH1101: The Fundamentals of Chemistry for Health Sciences
CH1101: The Fundamentals of Chemistry for Health Sciences
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 10
This module covers fundamental topics in inorganic, physical, analytical, organic, and experimental chemistry. It provides a broad and targeted introduction to chemistry for students who require a full two-semester foundation course and who are pursuing pharmacy, medicine, and health sciences-related courses. The course addresses the particular needs of these students through the use of examples and applications related to pharmacy and medicine.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe fundamental atomic structures and rationalise the properties of elements based on electron configuration and periodic trends.
- Draw representations of the bonding and geometry of simple molecules and ions, and predict chemical formulas of compounds using valence considerations and the knowledge of simple and complex cations and anions relevant to the production of medicines.
- Demonstrate quantitative problem-solving skills in mass and mole calculations, acid-base, redox, and precipitation reactions in aqueous solutions.
- Solve quantitative problems in chemical equilibrium and kinetics, including thermochemistry, entropy, Gibbs free energy, spontaneous reactions, and temperature effects on reaction rates—with applications to medicine degradation.
- Solve chemical problems in pharmacy and medicine.
- Predict and explain the expected chemical and physical behaviour of simple organic compounds based on their functional groups and geometry, to include conformation and stereochemistry.
- Draw mechanisms of selected fundamental organic reactions, to include substitution, elimination and addition reactions, and predict their outcome as could be applied to the production of medicines.
- Analyse salts for the presence of common cations and anions, and simple organic substances for the presence of common functional groups.
- Use appropriate laboratory techniques and equipment to synthesise, separate and purify chemical compounds.
- Implement safe, efficient and organised work practices in a chemistry laboratory, to include awareness of common hazards and appropriate safety precautions.
- Accurately analyse, record and report experimental results to a scientifically acceptable standard.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (60%)
- Continuous Assessment (40%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module CH1101: "The Fundamentals of Chemistry for Health Sciences" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPC1101: Pharmacy – Professional Skills 1
PC1101: Pharmacy – Professional Skills 1
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 10
The aim of this module is to introduce the student to the concept of Pharmacists as professionals with emphasis on the PSI Code of Conduct for Pharmacists and the Core Competency Framework.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the profession of Pharmacy, past, present and future and the unique role of the Pharmacist in providing pharmaceutical care and health promotion.
- List the main legislation governing the practice of Pharmacy in the State and the main elements of the Core Competency Framework and the Code of Conduct.
- Describe the role of the Pharmacist in the healthcare team and understand team roles and the principles underpinning effective teamwork as applied to working with colleagues, other healthcare professionals and patients.
- Discuss the basic theory surrounding communication and communicate and collaborate effectively to resolve ethical dilemmas.
- Interpret and safely dispense a single item prescription in line with the legislation and provide appropriate patient counselling.
- Describe strategies for reducing errors including human factors considerations.
- Discuss the concepts of health psychology, patient perceptions of health and disease and theories surrounding adherence and concordance as they apply to the practice of Pharmacy.
- Understand the importance of reflective practice for continuing professional development and life-long learning, reflect on practice experiences.
- Describe the importance of self-care for Pharmacists and other healthcare professionals.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (70%)
- Continuous Assessment (20%)
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (10%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module PC1101: "Pharmacy – Professional Skills 1" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPC1102: Professional Development 1
PC1102: Professional Development 1
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 0
The module introduces the student to the concept of the Pharmacist as a professional, via placement in a professional setting. The module gives students the opportunity to reflect on their definition of a professional and how they see themselves evolving into that persona. Students will reflect on the knowledge and skills they require to form their professional identity. Students will be gain the process of formally recording their life-long learning.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Display an aptitude for personal and professional development.
- Apply a reflective approach to learning, professional practice and professional identity.
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module PC1102: "Professional Development 1" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPC1104: Foundation Pharmacology for Pharmacy
PC1104: Foundation Pharmacology for Pharmacy
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 15
This module is to introduce students to the core concepts of pharmacology, including pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics, drug action on the peripheral nervous system (PNS), drug discovery and development, and the cellular and molecular basis of drug action.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the main drug targets and associated chemical mediators and signalling pathways.
- Assess and critically analyse and interpret pharmacological data (e.g. dose-response curves for agonists, antagonists, inverse agonists).
- Calculate molarities, concentrations, volumes required in making solutions.
- Describe the processes and importance of route of administration, absorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion for specific drugs. Derive pharmacokinetic data and use them to predict properties of drugs.
- Describe the process of adrenergic and cholinergic neurotransmission including receptors and transporters, and how drugs can target the peripheral nervous system to produce both wanted and unwanted effects.
- Describe the processes by which new drugs are discovered and developed into drug candidates and tested for safety and efficacy in human clinical trials, and evaluate drug discovery and clinical trial data sets in order to make decisions on them.
- Explain how DNA replication, transcription, translation, cell cycle and apoptosis can be targeted by drugs.
- Demonstrate competency in laboratory practical skills and techniques of modern pharmacology including, calculations, dilutions, standards, biochemical and pharmacological assays, ligand-binding, data recording, data analysis, data presentation, interpretation and scientific report-writing.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (70%)
- Continuous Assessment (30%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Rang and Dale's Pharmacology" by James M. Ritter,Rod J. Flower,Graeme Henderson,Yoon Kong Loke,David MacEwan,Humphrey P. Rang
ISBN: 9780702074486.
Publisher: Elsevier - "Principles of Pharmacology" by David E. Golan,Ehrin J. Armstrong,April W. Armstrong
ISBN: 9781451191004.
Publisher: LWW - "Lippincott Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology" by Karen Whalen
ISBN: 1975170555.
Publisher: LWW
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredBI1104: Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology
BI1104: Introduction to Molecular and Cellular Biology
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
This module provides a broad introduction to molecular and cellular biology for students in Medicine, Pharmacy and biomedicine-related programmes. The course addresses the particular needs of these students through the use of examples and applications related to medical professionals.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the components of major classes of biomolecules
- Describe the structure and organisation of prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
- Identify the metabolites that integrate different metabolic pathways and explain how metabolic pathways are regulated
- Interpret metabolic changes in terms of carbohydrate, amino acid and lipid metabolism
- Describe the structure of DNA, how it is damaged and the repair mechanisms
- Describe how genetic information is organised and expressed within cells
- Describe the processes of replication, transcription and translation, comparing them in eukaryotes and prokaryotes
- Identify relevant diseases associated with DNA and therapeutic targets
- Describe the process of molecular cloning and how it is used to express proteins for therapeutic use
- Describe how molecular techniques are used to diagnose disease
- Identify risks and practice appropriate safety in a molecular and cellular biology laboratory
- Prepare solutions and dispense liquids using an autopipettor
- Test samples for the presence of lipids, proteins, and simple and complex sugars
- Isolate DNA samples from biological sources and measure abundance
- Search molecular databases and present molecular cell biology information in appropriate formats
Assessments
- Written Assessment (50%)
- Continuous Assessment (50%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Biology: A Global Approach by Campbell, Urry, Cain, Wasserman, Minorsky (currently ed 12, 2021)" by n/a
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPC1103: Introduction to Pharmaceutics – Formulation Science
PC1103: Introduction to Pharmaceutics – Formulation Science
Semester 2 | Credits: 10
Students will be taught the fundamental concepts of formulation specifically with respect to solutions, suspensions and emulsions. This module will particularly explore the factors affecting solubility and pharmaceutical excipients. Students will be introduced to pharmaceutical calculations, a topic that will continue to be taught throughout the degree programme. The regulatory aspects of extemporaneous compounding will also be taught and students will have their initial training in extemporaneous compounding of formulations. Aspects of the module will build on or align with the year 1 chemistry module, specifically solubility, pH, partition coefficients and molarity.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Explain what is meant by extemporaneous compounding, list and apply the regulations surrounding extemporaneous compounding and understand the unique role of the Pharmacist in the manufacture and supply of medicines and as a Qualified Person.
- Safely prepare and label pharmaceutical solutions, suspensions and emulsions in line with pharmacopoeial requirements.
- Determine the solubility of a given compound in a particular solvent and recommend excipients to enhance solubility.
- Effectively use the Handbook of Pharmaceutical Excipients to select appropriate excipients for any route of administration and determine incompatibilities with other excipients or the active ingredient.
- Select an appropriate route of administration for a given compound and list the advantages and disadvantages of each route.
- Discuss the options for packaging the dosage forms covered and how the choice of packing may impact formulation degradation and shelf-life.
- Understand the importance of accuracy with pharmaceutical calculations and perform calculations relating to oral and parenteral liquids.
- Communicate and collaborate effectively to solve a specific formulation problem.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (50%)
- Continuous Assessment (50%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Aulton's Pharmaceutics" by Michael E. Aulton,Kevin Taylor
ISBN: 0702042900.
Publisher: Elsevier Health Sciences - "Introduction to Pharmaceutical Calculations" by Judith A. Rees,Ian Smith,Brian Smith
ISBN: 0853699607. - "Remington: The Science and Practice of Pharmacy" by Adeboye Adejare
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
Year 2 (60 Credits)
RequiredPC2102: Sterile Pharmaceutical Preparations
PC2102: Sterile Pharmaceutical Preparations
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
This module will give students the skills to perform aseptic manufacture and manipulation of pharmaceutical products. The module will also inform students on methods of sterilisation and industrial manufacture of sterile preparations.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe the aseptic manufacturing process for both small and large scale production of aseptic products including design and organisation of manufacturing facilities.
- Discuss microbiological contamination of pharmaceutical products and methods of sterilisation, choose appropriate sterilisation methods and packaging to maintain sterility for different formulations and active ingredients.
- Understand the requirements of GLP and GMP-grade production and where requirements for GMP-grade production can be found
- Describe QC and QA and explain environmental monitoring and QC requirements for sterile products particularly parenteral and ophthalmic products.
- Perform aseptic manipulations.
- Extemporaneously compound and safely dispense an eye drop preparation.
- Identify risks associated with aseptic manufacture, discuss methods of risk reduction and safety science and list methods to reduce risk.
- Explain the different grades of water for pharmaceutical use.
- Perform pharmaceutical calculations relevant to parenteral products and ophthalmic formulations.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (70%)
- Continuous Assessment (30%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Aulton's Pharmaceutics" by Michael E. Aulton,Kevin Taylor
ISBN: 0702042900.
Publisher: Elsevier Health Sciences - "Introduction to Pharmaceutical Calculations" by Judith A. Rees,Ian Smith,Brian Smith
ISBN: 0853699607.
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPC2108: Pharmaceutical Microbiology
PC2108: Pharmaceutical Microbiology
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 10
This module will cover common microorganisms that cause diseases in humans, the mechanisms of resistance these microorganisms use and the mechanisms of action and clinical use considerations of the available classes of medicines to treat infection. This module will also introduce the concept of antimicrobial stewardship as it applies to community and hospital Pharmacy and the role of microbiology services in hospitals. This module also covers the principles of vaccination and the types of vaccine available. This will underpin content covered in the semester one module on the development and implementation of a vaccination service.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Identify and describe the biological features of the different classes of clinically relevant microbes and how these microbes can overcome host immunity to cause infection and how this differs from colonisation.
- Describe microbes that cause important infections in the different body tissues and discuss the pathogenesis and consequences of infection.
- Describe the main classes of antimicrobial agents, their biological targets, principles of clinical use with reference to local and national guidelines and the evolutionary changes that can lead to antimicrobial resistance.
- Demonstrate knowledge of One Health and discuss preventative measures to prevent and control infection including hand hygiene, disinfection, surveillance and appropriate disposal of antimicrobials.
- Describe the principle of immunisation and discuss the importance of vaccination in prevention of infection and public health.
- Perform laboratory techniques for the culture, diagnosis, enumeration and characterisation of clinically important microbes and describe the theoretical basis for these techniques.
- Describe the importance of antimicrobial stewardship, the unique role of the Pharmacist as part of the antimicrobial stewardship team and the role of the Pharmacist in guideline development, health promotion and public health more broadly.
- Demonstrate communication, team-work, critical thinking and clinical Pharmacy skills in the discussion of topics related to pharmaceutical microbiology.
- Demonstrate appropriate consultation skills to assess a patient presenting with signs of an infection and provide evidence-based advice on infection management including appropriate safety-netting strategies.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (80%)
- Continuous Assessment (20%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module PC2108: "Pharmaceutical Microbiology" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPC2103: Professional Development 2
PC2103: Professional Development 2
Semester 1 and Semester 2 | Credits: 0
The aim of this module is to give students the opportunity to demonstrate their personal and professional development in a professional setting. Students will undertake two weeks of community practice placement, coordinated by APPEL. This will give student the opportunity to put their learning into practice and demonstrate the evolution of their personal and professional development in a professional setting.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate an awareness of reflective learning as it applies to personal and professional development.
- Establish collaborative working relationships in a practice setting through good communication.
- Use evidence-based information to solve problems that arise in a practice setting.
- Reflect on legal and ethical issues that occur in practice and how encountering these issues can influence their personal and professional development.
Assessments
- Continuous Assessment (100%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
The above information outlines module PC2103: "Professional Development 2" and is valid from 2025 onwards.Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPC2101: Pharmacy - Core Skills of Medicines
PC2101: Pharmacy - Core Skills of Medicines
Semester 1 | Credits: 5
This module focusses on the safe supply of sterile and non-sterile preparations as outlined in the Core Competency Framework for Pharmacists. This module complements the information learned in Sterile Pharmaceutical Preparations and includes the teaching of techniques for administration of a subcutaneous injection and related standard operating procedures. This module incorporates interprofessional teaching and learning focused on patient centric care for those with vision or hearing impairments.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Demonstrate the specific behaviours outlined in the Pharmacy Care and Public Health pillars of the Core Competency Framework.
- Detail the special considerations required when dispensing sterile medicinal products to optimise patient safety.
- Understand the theory underpinning health promotion activities and the unique role of the pharmacist in health promotion and identify opportunities for health promotion activities.
- Discuss the legal, ethical, health and safety and practical considerations required for the implementation of vaccination service.
- Explain the concepts of clinical reasoning as applied to Pharmacy and demonstrate good communication, collaboration, consultation, interprofessional working and patient-centred care with regard to conditions affecting the eye and ear.
- Communicate and collaborate appropriately to develop a plan for a health promotion event as part of a group assignment.
- Reflect on learnings particularly with regard to the application of clinical reasoning and optimising patient-centred care when supplying medicines.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (30%)
- Continuous Assessment (20%)
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (50%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Introduction to Pharmaceutical Calculations, 4th edition" by Judith A Rees,Ian Smith,Jennie Watson
ISBN: 9780857111685.
Publisher: Pharmaceutical Press - "Minor Illness or Major Disease" by B. Addison, A. Brown, R. Edwards, G. Gray
- "Community Pharmacy: Symptoms, Diagnosis and Treatment" by P. Rutter
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPC2105: Musculoskeletal System
PC2105: Musculoskeletal System
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
Students will learn about the functions of the musculoskeletal system and the associated pathologies. The module will have a specific focus on the management of common conditions and the formulation and safe dispensing of medicines.
Student learning will be facilitated through integrated teaching sessions and multidisciplinary workshops. Simulated clinical case studies will be used to enhance collaboration and problem solving to improve patient care.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe in detail the normal structure & function of the musculoskeletal system.
- Describe the epidemiology and pathophysiology of common conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
- Explain the aetiology and pharmacological treatments of musculoskeletal system conditions.
- Recognise the fundamental factors affecting formulation and testing of medicines used in the management of common conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
- Interpret common symptoms & signs, relevant history & tests for patients with common conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
- Provide evidence-based person-centred care through good communication, optimised medicines use, safe & lawful supply, promotion of healthy behaviours & self-care for common conditions of the musculoskeletal system.
- Communicate & collaborate effectively with patients & other healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety & appropriate use of medicines & complementary therapies.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (70%)
- Continuous Assessment (20%)
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (10%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Essentials of Human Physiology and Pathophysiology for Pharmacy and Allied Health" by Laurie K. McCorry,Martin M. Zdanowicz,Cynthia Yvon Gonnella
ISBN: 0367000482. - "Pharmacology for Pharmacy and the Health Sciences" by Michael Boarder,Michael R. Boarder,C. Jane Dixon,David Newby,Phyllis Navti,Tyra Zetterström
ISBN: 0198728832.
Publisher: Oxford University Press - "Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics" by Cate Whittlesea,Karen Hodson
ISBN: 9780702070112. - "Aulton's Pharmaceutics" by Michael E. Aulton,Kevin Taylor
ISBN: 0702042900.
Publisher: Elsevier Health Sciences
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPC2106: Endocrine System and Reproductive Health
PC2106: Endocrine System and Reproductive Health
Semester 2 | Credits: 10
Students will learn about the functions of the endocrine and reproductive systems and the associated pathologies. The module will have a specific focus on the management of common conditions and the formulation and safe dispensing of medicines.
Student learning will be facilitated through integrated teaching sessions and multidisciplinary workshops. Simulated clinical case studies will be used to enhance collaboration and problem solving to improve patient care.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Describe in detail the normal structure & function of the endocrine and reproductive systems.
- Describe the epidemiology and pathophysiology of common conditions of the endocrine and reproductive systems.
- Explain the aetiology and pharmacological treatments of endocrine and reproductive system conditions.
- Recognise the fundamental factors affecting formulation and testing of medicines and medical devices used in the management of common conditions of the endocrine and reproductive systems.
- Interpret common symptoms & signs, relevant history & tests for patients with common conditions of the endocrine and reproductive systems.
- Provide evidence-based person-centred care through good communication, optimised medicines use, safe & lawful supply, promotion of healthy behaviours & self-care for common conditions of the endocrine and reproductive system.
- Communicate & collaborate effectively with patients & other healthcare professionals to ensure patient safety & appropriate use of medicines & complementary therapies.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (70%)
- Continuous Assessment (20%)
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (10%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Aulton's Pharmaceutics" by Michael E. Aulton,Kevin Taylor
ISBN: 0702042900.
Publisher: Elsevier Health Sciences
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
RequiredPC2104: Pharmacy - Professional Skills II
PC2104: Pharmacy - Professional Skills II
Semester 2 | Credits: 5
This module will provide an understanding of the law surrounding the sale and supply of medicinal products and the additional laws governing the supply of medicines and the practice of Pharmacy in the State.
(Language of instruction: English)
Learning Outcomes
- Understand and apply the provisions of the Medicinal Products (Prescription and Control of Supply) legislation, the Misuse of Drugs Act, the Pharmacy Act, regulations relating to retail Pharmacy business, poisons legislation, employment legislation (including health and safety) and data protection legislation.
- Describe the role of the PSI and its associated committees.
- Safely dispense prescriptions for controlled drugs with a legal, ethical and equitable manner and demonstrate appropriate patient counselling skills.
- Demonstrate an awareness of community drug schemes and how medicines are reimbursed in the State.
- Demonstrate teamwork, written and verbal communication skills by the completion of a group assignment based on Pharmacy legislation.
- Describe the principles surrounding risk, risk management, risk reduction and safety science with reference to the practice of Pharmacy.
- Record and reflect on learnings from practice and demonstrate professional development activities.
Assessments
- Written Assessment (70%)
- Continuous Assessment (20%)
- Oral, Audio Visual or Practical Assessment (10%)
Teachers & Administrators
Click a name to search for their researcher profile. Note: Only teachers publish research profiles.
Reading List
- "Introduction to Pharmaceutical Calculations" by Judith A. Rees,Ian Smith,Brian Smith
ISBN: 0853699607. - "Community Pharmacy" by Paul Rutter
ISBN: 0702080209.
Publisher: Elsevier
Note: Module offerings and details may be subject to change.
- You’ll gain real-world experience early in your programme through simulation, lectures from practising pharmacists and hands-on placements in hospitals and community pharmacies.
- You will learn with students from other healthcare degree programmes, building relationships with them which will enhance your ability to work as a team to improve patient care.
- This programme prepares students for the future of pharmacy by teaching data analytics and advanced clinical skills, preparing you for future expansion of the role of pharmacists.
Following award of your MPharm qualification and registration with the Pharmacy regulator you can work in any role, including the following:
Community Pharmacy: Community Pharmacists work closely with the Pharmacy team, the local GP and other members of the healthcare team to care for their patients. Community Pharmacists provide healthcare advice and help patients to treat minor illnesses. Community Pharmacists may also provide vaccinations and other services such as blood pressure testing. Community Pharmacists monitor medicines prescribed for patients and ensure they are suitable for the person and won’t cause any unsafe effects. Community Pharmacists are one of the most accessible healthcare professionals, making them the first port of call for many people who need healthcare advice.
Hospital Pharmacy: In hospitals, Pharmacists review patient medicines, identifying medicines that may need to be stopped and ensuring new medicines are safe for patients. Pharmacists provide advice to other healthcare professionals on the most appropriate medicines to prescribe and other advice such as appropriate formulations for people with swallowing difficulties. Pharmacists in the hospital may also assist with running clinical trials for new medicines and sometimes manufacture medicines in a sterile environment.
Pharmaceutical Industry: As medicines experts, Pharmacists have a unique insight into how to make a drug into a medicine that can safely and easily be taken by patients. This includes everything from how to manufacture tablets and other forms of medicines, to the quality assurance, packaging, licensing and distribution of these medicines.
Regulatory Affairs: Any new medicines coming on to the market must be assessed to make sure they are safe and work as they are supposed to. All medicines are continuously monitored to identify if they are causing harm to people or are not working as they should. Pharmacists have expertise in all aspects of medicines development and therefore are well-placed to work in the regulation of medicines.
Research: Pharmacists can perform research on any topic related to Pharmacy including drug development, formulation development, clinical Pharmacy or other areas related to medicines or healthcare.
In all of these areas, Pharmacists work with multidisciplinary teams, using their knowledge of medicines and healthcare to optimise patient care and outcomes.
Some students may have the opportunity to complete part of their placement or a research project abroad. The University of Galway has research and educational partnerships with universities around the world where research projects could be undertaken.
Placement opportunities throughout the programme give you the opportunity to use what you have learned in a real-world setting.
There are three main placements during the five years of the degree:
- Year 2: A two-week placement in a patient-facing setting, allowing students to apply foundational skills and gain exposure to pharmacy practice.
- Year 4: A four-month placement from September to December, offering opportunities in diverse environments such as community pharmacies, hospitals, pharmaceutical industry, regulatory agencies, or academic research.
- Year 5: An eight-month placement in a patient-facing setting, focusing on developing advanced clinical skills and competencies under the supervision of a tutor pharmacist.
These placements are designed to enhance students' practical knowledge and prepare them for professional roles in the pharmacy sector. Students will have the opportunity to provide a list of preferences on the location of these placements. Placement capacity is limited and so students may not always get their choice of placement location or setting.
- The Pharmacy degree is accredited by the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI), the professional body that regulates pharmacists in Ireland.
- Graduates are eligible to register and practice as pharmacists in Ireland upon completion.
- The degree is recognised across the European Union, allowing graduates to pursue pharmacy careers in other EU countries.
- International recognition enables graduates to explore opportunities beyond Ireland, subject to local registration requirements.
This course is taught by experts in a range of areas. Pharmacists teach content on the practice of Pharmacy, professionalism, clinical Pharmacy and the formulation of medicines. These Pharmacists have experience working in many different roles and may also have performed academic research in specific areas of the science or practice of Pharmacy, meaning they are at the cutting-edge of new developments in Pharmacy. In the early years of the programme teaching of chemistry, physiology, biochemistry, bacteriology and pharmacology is performed by experts in these subject areas.
How Will I Learn?
You will learn through a range of methods that represent the best-practice in Pharmacy education. You will have a mixture of traditional lectures, workshops, tutorials and laboratory classes. As you move through the course learning will be increasingly based on you working with a group to solve problems you may encounter in a range of practice settings. Your personal and professional development will be enhanced by the opportunity to learn from and with students from other courses. Flipped-classroom approaches mean you will sometimes have the opportunity to teach the class, improving your communication skills. Simulated dispensing activities are included from Year 1, giving you the opportunity to learn in a safe and secure setting.
How Will I Be Assessed?
A range of assessment types will be used. Each module has some continuous assessment, which supports your learning throughout the semester. This might be a group project, presentation, debate, laboratory activity or a multiple choice quiz. Written exams happen at the end of the semester, where you will answer multiple choice questions or write essays on the material you have learned. You will also have simulated dispensing exams to strengthen your ability to complete clinical and accuracy checks on prescriptions and dispensed medicines.
The accreditation of a new Master’s degree in Pharmacy at the University of Galway
The MPharm provides the qualification necessary for registration to practice as a pharmacist and is a five-year integrated programme that incorporates clinical and other experiential learning placements.
The University of Galway has completed the PSI accreditation process to establish a new Master's degree in pharmacy (MPharm). The Council of the PSI, the pharmacy regulator’s governing board, was pleased to accredit the programme. The University will be able to enrol students to the new programme commencing this Autumn. Read more
Course queries:
Pharmacy@universityofgalway.ie
Programme Director(s):
Dr Joanne O’Dwyer
E: joanne.odwyer@universityofgalway.ie
Q: Do students have to complete the 5-year programme to be a pharmacist?
A: Yes, to be eligible to register as a Pharmacist, students must complete the four-year BSc Pharmacy and the one-year MPharm programmes. A Pharmacy degree is the only degree that fulfils the educational requirements to be a Pharmacist.
Q. Do students need to apply for Year 5 (MPharm)?
A: No, to enter this programme students must have successfully completed the BSc Pharmacy programme and have no fitness to practice concerns. Only students who complete the BSc Pharmacy in the University of Galway can enter this programme. Students from other programmes such as the BSc Biomedical Science are not eligible to enter the Year 5 MPharm (unless they have subsequently completed a Pharmacy degree).
Q: Can students transfer from another course into the MPharm programme?
A: No, students must apply via the CAO for entry into the programme. All students must complete the 5 years of the programme.
Q: Can students apply for Recognition of Prior Learning ?
A: Applications for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) will be assessed in accordance with the University of Galway RPL Policy. Applicants who hold relevant academic qualifications may be considered for exemptions from specific modules in Year 1 (up to a maximum of 10ECTS. Each application will be reviewed and evaluated to determine the extent to which the applicant’s prior learning aligns with the learning outcomes of the MPharm programme. Only designated modules will be eligible for RPL consideration. Where RPL is granted, students will receive an exemption for the entire module.
Q: Can Mature Students apply for this course?
A: There are places allocated for mature entry students from September 2026. Applications are via the CAO. Please refer to the University of Galway Mature Students page for further information on how to apply and entry requirements.
Q: Can Pharmacy Technicians apply for this course?
A: There are places allocated for pharmacy technicians from September 2026. Applications are via the CAO. Please refer to the University of Galway Mature Students page for further information on how to apply and entry requirements.
Q: What are the Pharmaceutical Society of Ireland (PSI) Accreditation Standards?
A: The current accreditation standards for the MPharm programmes were first introduced in 2019. These standards were reviewed in 2024 and approved again by the PSI Council. These accreditation standards underpin accreditation processes. Annual reporting for currently accredited training programmes is carried out against these standards. 5Yr Prog Accreditation Standards
Accreditations & Awards
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Entry Requirements and Fees
Minimum Grade H5 in two subjects and O6/H7 in four other subjects in the Leaving Certificate, including Irish (unless exempt), English, Maths, a Laboratory Science subject (either Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Physics/Chemistry joint or Agricultural Science) which must be at a minimum H4 level.
No 3 rd language is required.
Please note that to register as a Pharmacist, one must hold an
MPharm (Masters in Pharmacy) degree. This degree is obtained following successful completion of Year 5 of the programme. As Year 5 is technically a postgraduate Year, this is not covered by the free fees initiative and is subject to a course fee of €11,500. Completing the four-year BSc Pharmacy and not progressing to the fifth MPharm year, does not meet the educational requirements for registration as a Pharmacist.
Garda Vetting: Required: Garda Vetting - University of Galway
Vaccination and Screening: Pre-Placement Health Assessment, Screening & Certification - University of Galway
Fitness to Practice: This programme is subject to the University of Galway Fitness to Practice Policy for Pharmacy Students.
Alternative Pathways
The Access Centre at University of Galway provides a number of alternative entry routes to undergraduate programmes. See below some useful links:
Other Qualifications
If you are a school leaver presenting results other than Leaving Cert results, please review the entry requirements relevant to you:
For applicants whose first language is not English, it is important to check our English Language Requirements.
Admissions Office
Our Admissions Office provides additional detail relevant to CAO applicants including key dates, FAQs and instructions for non-school leavers.
Criteria for Mature Entry
Applicants must present a minimum of six subjects in the Leaving Certificate (or equivalent), including at least two subjects with a minimum grade of H5 and four subjects with a minimum grade of O6/H7. These must include Irish (unless exempt), English, Mathematics (at O6/H7 level), and a Laboratory Science subject- specifically, a minimum grade of H4 in Agricultural Science, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Physics with Chemistry (combined)).
All subject and grade requirements must be met in the year prior to application or earlier; that is, applicants must have achieved the necessary results before applying.
In addition to meeting the academic entry requirements, applicants must also satisfy several additional criteria. If English is not the applicant’s first language, evidence of English language proficiency must be provided. A Statement of Intent is required and must be submitted as part of the CAO application. Applicant scores - based on eligibility and the assessment of the Statement of Intent - will be used to rank candidates for invitation to the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI). Only the top-ranked applicants will be invited to participate in the MMI, and further information will be provided to those shortlisted. Please note that applicants may be interviewed a maximum of two times.
Specific Mature Entry for Pharmacy Technician
Applicants must meet all three of the following criteria:
(1) They must present a minimum of six subjects in the Leaving Certificate (or equivalent), including at least two subjects with a grade of H5 and four with a grade of O6/H7. These must include Irish (unless exempt), English, Mathematics (at O6/H7), and a Laboratory Science subject. All subject and grade requirements must be met in the year prior to application or earlier.
(2) Applicants must hold a minimum QQI Level 6 Pharmacy Technician qualification.
(3) They must also have at least three years of post-qualification experience as a Pharmacy Technician.
In addition to meeting the academic entry requirements, applicants must also satisfy several additional criteria. If English is not the applicant’s first language, evidence of English language proficiency must be provided. A Statement of Intent is required and must be submitted as part of the CAO application. This should include a description of your work as a Pharmacy technician. Applicant scores - based on eligibility and the assessment of the Statement of Intent - will be used to rank candidates for invitation to the Multiple Mini Interview (MMI). Only the top-ranked applicants will be invited to participate in the MMI, and further information will be provided to those shortlisted. Please note that applicants may be interviewed a maximum of two times.
Irish and European (EU/EFTA/UK) Applicants
Apply via the CAO. See the CAO Handbook for useful information on applying through the CAO.
Mature Applicants
Apply via the CAO by 1 February. To apply for a place as a mature student, you must be 23 years of age on or before 1 January of the year of entry. Further information available here.
Access and Foundation Applicants
Apply via the CAO.
See our Access and Foundation Applicants page for information on places available and entry requirements
Fees for Academic Year 2026/27
| Course Type | Year | EU Tuition | Student Contribution | Non-EU Tuition | Levy | Total Fee | Total EU Fee | Total Non-EU Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| All | €9,000 | €2,500 | €340 | €2,840 | €11,840 |
- Most EU students applying through the CAO will be eligible for the ‘Free Fees Initiative’. You can find out more here.
- If you are eligible for a means tested SUSI grant this may cover 100% of this Student Contribution Charge. If you are 100% eligible SUSI will pay the Student Contribution Charge of €2,500 on your behalf.
- The Student Levy It is payable by all students and it is not covered by SUSI.
- Where the course duration is greater than 1 year, there is an inflationary increase approved of 1.8% per annum for continuing year fees. This applies to non-EU tuition.
- You can find additional detail on the Fees Office webpage including FAQs and how fee status is assessed.
- Occupational Health Service
In year one students are required to pay a €200 fee towards a subsidised Occupational Health Service provided to students of the College of Medicine, Nursing & Health Sciences in compliance with all relevant legislation and standards. This is shown as part of the levy
Please note that to register as a Pharmacist, one must hold an
MPharm (Masters in Pharmacy) degree. This degree is obtained following successful completion of Year 5 of the programme. As Year 5 is technically a postgraduate Year, this is not covered by the free fees initiative and is subject to a course fee of €11,500. Completing the four-year BSc Pharmacy and not progressing to the fifth MPharm year, does not meet the educational requirements for registration as a Pharmacist"
Not applicable, there are currently no places available to non-EU students
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World renowned research led university nestled in the vibrant heart of Galway city on Ireland's scenic West Coast.
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Course Introduction
Start Your Journey to a Career in Pharmacy
Pharmacy is more than just dispensing medicines; pharmacists are trusted healthcare experts who play a vital role in patient care in healthcare settings and in the pharmaceutical industry.
This future-focused Pharmacy degree will equip you with the knowledge and skills to have a real impact on patient care, working with the wider healthcare team.
