Pharmacology BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Undergraduate

Two female pharmacologists one working with a microscope

On our Pharmacology BSc (Hons) degree you will further your understanding of how our bodies function in both health and disease from molecules and cells to whole organ systems.

Course option

Degree with foundation year

Year of entry

2025-26 2026-27

Location

CU Coventry (Coventry) and
Coventry University (Coventry)

Study mode

Full-time
Sandwich

Duration

4 years full-time
5 years sandwich

UCAS codes

BBDF

Start date

September 2025
November 2025

How to apply

Book an Open Day

Download a prospectus

Course overview

Our degree with foundation year could be the stepping stone you need to achieve your goals. The foundation year aims to prepare you for degree-level study and is a great way to build the confidence, skills and knowledge needed to succeed on your degree course.

Foundation year

The foundation year course offers an introduction to your chosen subject and helps you develop the necessary skills for degree-level study. In addition, you will also explore key skills such as research methods, scientific fundamentals and promotion techniques.

Degree

Successful completion of this degree will equip you with the skills and knowledge to contribute to current and emerging challenges in the understanding of drug actions and reactions and the development of new drugs to help fight disease.

Not only will your studies focus on the investigation of how drugs are developed and their effects on living systems, but your studies will also take on a multidisciplinary approach incorporating aspects of human physiology, cell biology, biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology, underpinned by chemical principles.
Upon successful completion, you will have the skills and knowledge to meet the demand for suitably trained professionals within the global pharmaceutical industry to expedite the critical task of translating basic laboratory medical research into technology and drugs that can be used to diagnose and treat patients.
It is anticipated that on successful completion of this course you could have employment opportunities in a range of industries including pharmaceutical research and development roles, clinical trials, drug regulation and sales and marketing.

Rated Gold Overall

Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF) 2023

5 QS Stars for Teaching and Facilities

QS Stars University Ratings

Top 5 Student City in England (Coventry)

QS Best Student Cities Index 2025

Foundation year

Supports you to gain the academic skills required for degree-level study.
Provides a grounding in key areas of biosciences.

Degree

Hands-on experience for a wide range of laboratory techniques such as gene amplification using PCR, gene sequencing, cell culture, flow cytometry using real world applicable techniques and clinical simulations in our cutting edge Superlab⁴.
Extensive industry links (e.g. Biocity) and opportunities to spend a year in industry in the UK or overseas as a placement student²; past students have worked at John Radcliffe Hospital and companies like Binding Site, and in countries as far afield as Canada, Spain and the Netherlands.
Our experienced research active teaching team have worked within cardiovascular and respiratory pharmacology, clinical toxicology, NHS pathology laboratories. Staff bring their professional and research expertise into their teaching through the use of contemporary clinical case studies as the basis for problem-based learning activities (staff may be subject to change).
This course would be ideal for students who wish to pursue careers in integrative medical and pharmacological science or are interested in focusing on drug development.
Following British Pharmacological Society (BPS) guidelines, this course is designed to give you a solid foundation in areas of biology that support an understanding of pharmacology.

Accreditation and professional recognition

The degree is accredited¹ and recognised by the following bodies:

The Royal Society of Biology

This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB) up to and including September 2028 entry for the purpose of meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol). This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology following an independent and rigorous assessment. Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.

Our Award-winning Green Superlab

With space for over 250 students and packed full of industry-standard equipment, the Coventry University Superlab is an amazing place to learn, experiment and discover. Find out what we’re doing in our Superlab to make it greener and reduce our waste and carbon emissions.

What you'll study

This course has a common first year.

The common first year enables you to work alongside students doing similar courses to you to widen your knowledge and exposure to other subject areas and professions. You will have the opportunity to collaborate with other students, so you can share your insights and experience which will help you to develop and learn.

If you discover an interest in a specific subject you have studied, upon successful completion of your first year, you could swap degrees with another course in your common first year (subject to meeting progression requirements).

Common first year courses

Biological and Forensic Science BSc (Hons)
Biomedical Science BSc (Hons)
Human Biosciences BSc (Hons)
Pharmacology BSc (Hons)

In the first year, the curriculum is shared across related courses allowing you to gain a broad grounding in the discipline before going on, in the second and final years to specialist modules in your chosen field. It provides underpinning knowledge, laboratory and data analysis skills relevant for pharmacology. This shared approach allows you to appreciate a diversity of applications and roles for biosciences and to gain a broad topic understanding.

Modules

Human physiology: Homeostasis and Health - 20 credits

You will study the physiology, organisation, structure, and function of key physiologic/organ systems (e.g., nervous, musculo-skeletal, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive, gastrointestinal, and renal systems). You will investigate cause-and-effect mechanisms and the interaction between systems in maintaining homeostasis and good health. There will be some discussion of consequences of homeostatic mechanisms breaking down to foster an understanding of human body function with an appreciation of disease states. You will be introduced to laboratory-based techniques, e.g., electromyography, electrocardiograms, and spirometry, for the measurement of different physiological variables. You will also develop study skills such as accessing scientific literature, appropriate referencing and academic writing.

Compulsory

Genetics, Heredity and Evolution - 20 credits

This module will introduce the fundamental principles of inheritance, human genetics, population genetics and evolutionary principles. Inheritance patterns including human blood groups and mitochondrial inheritance patterns will be explored. Ethical issues surrounding access to genetic information will be discussed as well as the impact of historical events and projects. You will take part in collaborative working and develop presentation and peer feedback skills.

Compulsory

Structure, Function and Analysis of Biomolecules - 20 credits

This module examines the structure and function of key biological molecules. Chemical principles relating to proteins, carbohydrates and lipids will be considered and linked to function. This module will also place emphasis on the fundamental techniques used to analyse biological molecules and the principles of these methods. The theory and practical application of relevant analytical methods will be considered. Throughout this module, there will also be the development of Good Laboratory Practice and fundamental laboratory procedures and techniques. You will be introduced to R, a programming language for statistical computing and graphics, and use it in the analysis of data.

Compulsory

Cell Communication, Structure, and Function - 20 credits

You will examine cellular structure, communication, enzymes and metabolic pathways in this module. Cellular interactions and cell signalling will be included and considered alongside aspects of pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics. The energy used to drive these processes will be considered especially in relation to the role of enzymes of catalysts. Key metabolic and signalling pathways will be explored and considered in relation to drug development processes.

Compulsory

The Microbial World - 20 credits

This module introduces the different types of infectious agents that are relevant to human health and considers the different ways in which these agents can be cultured, enumerated, controlled and analysed. Relevant laboratory techniques are also developed and used to consolidate the theoretical teaching. The immune system and the key components are also introduced and examined in the way in which these are relevant to preventing and eliminating infection. Current and emerging topics such as vaccination and antimicrobial resistance are also discussed.

Compulsory

Applied Techniques in Biology - 20 credits

In this module, you will explore the application of fundamental biology principles to practical exercises, to mimic real-life scenarios in commercial and applied biology. The module considers, among other things, our genetic information, its structure, function and inheritance (genotype), and how this determines the characteristics of an individual (phenotype). The module introduces you to human individual variation and the central dogma of DNA to RNA to protein (transcription and translation). In addition, you will gain knowledge and skills relating to the retrieval and analysis of biological sequence information using bioinformatics tools and analytical software such as Excel and R. Ethical issues, such as increased access to genomic information, quality control and accreditation issues, will be considered. You will be supported to understand and practice effective collaboration strategies, including record keeping and use of collaborative software, plus giving and receiving of feedback.

Compulsory

In the second year, there is a greater emphasis on the biology of disease. You will begin to specialise in pharmacology and related areas including physiology, biochemistry, immunology, and genetics.

Laboratory work is a key component of the course, enabling you to learn the experimental techniques and develop the key experimental, data handling and reporting skills required for careers in science⁴. Practical sessions will introduce you to modern laboratory techniques and clinical approaches to diagnosing and treating disease, while your research skills are broadened to include an understanding of research methodology and design, medical statistics, and methods of data analysis.

Modules

Disease Pathophysiology and Therapeutics

This module integrates key disciplines of human physiology, biochemistry, and pharmacology to explore disease states, their diagnosis within the clinical laboratory, and the rationale, mode of action and pharmacokinetic properties of drug therapies. The module considers four fundamental topic areas (nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems plus infectious disease) and the properties and modes of action of commonly prescribed drugs. Pharmacological considerations such as individual variation are addressed where relevant for these examples.

Compulsory

Pharmacology and Pathophysiology - 20 credits

Extending from the learning in Disease Pathophysiology and Therapeutics within this module you will consider normal and pathophysiology, biochemical diagnosis and management, and pharmacological agents for therapy of disease states affecting the gastrointestinal, renal, and endocrine systems. The key pharmacological principles relating to drug mechanisms and pharmacokinetics are applied.

Compulsory

Essential Techniques for Pharmacologists - 20 credits

This module focuses on development of laboratory practical and associated data analysis skills that are of key importance in pharmacology, for example to measure drug and metabolite concentrations, detect drug contaminants and to determine pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic parameters.

Compulsory

Cell and Molecular Biology for Pharmacologists - 20 credits

In this module, you will explore the activities of the cell that are fundamental to understanding disease states. A myriad of chemical reactions and molecular interactions allow cells to grow and divide, alter their activities and functions, organise into tissues, communicate with each other, and ultimately die. These normal processes are frequently altered or hijacked in disease. The module will also explore how novel therapeutic approaches are emerging based on this molecular understanding.

Compulsory

Immunology and Inflammation - 20 credits

This module explores the immune system in both health and disease and considers pharmacological agents which modulate immune responses. The links between chronic inflammation and multiple disease phenotypes will be discussed. The ability to exploit elements of the immune system for use as stratified immunotherapies will be introduced and explored in the context of hypersensitivity reactions, allergy, and cancer.

Compulsory

Research and professional skills development - 20 credits

This module takes the form of a group based “mini-project”. You will be recruited to research teams and act as consultants for a pharmaceutical company. The consultancy project will involve literature and technical research, laboratory practical investigation and generation of a report for the company. You will be required to apply for roles within the teams and successful appointment to the chosen project team will be determined by an interview. During the project, you will then be expected to demonstrate professional behaviours and conduct, collaborative team working, leadership and time management skills. As part of this module, you will be expected to consider topics such as ethical requirements, COSHH, intellectual property, confidentiality, and commercial application of research findings. The literature review, experimental planning, data analysis and critical evaluation, plus logistical considerations will help prepare you to tackle your final year capstone project.

Compulsory

There’s no better way to find out what you love doing than trying it out for yourself, which is why a work placement² can often be beneficial. Work placements usually occur between your second and final years of study. They’re a great way to help you explore your potential career path and gain valuable work experience, whilst developing transferable skills for the future.

Modules

UK Work Placement– 0 credits

This module provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved placement² undertaken during your course. A placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

International Study/Work Placement – 0 credits

This module provides you with an opportunity to reflect upon and gain experience for an approved international study/work placement² undertaken during your programme. A work/study placement should usually be at least 26 weeks or equivalent; however, each placement will be considered on its own merits, having regard to the ability to achieve the learning outcomes.

Optional

In the final year, you will apply your knowledge gained from years one and two.

Modules

Drug Discovery: Past, Present and Future - 20 credits

Within this module you will study drug development processes and how these have evolved from ancient times to the current day and beyond. Starting with pharmacognosy and pre-industrial drug discovery, the module will go on to consider stages of the process including target identification, in vivo and in vitro drug screening, testing of large and small molecule compounds, compound optimisation, clinical trials and marketing. The focus will then shift to recent breakthrough technologies, the impact of genomics in the development of personalised therapies and what the future developments may be.

Compulsory

Toxicology, Addiction and Abuse - 20 credits

This module will focus on the role of toxicology in drug development alongside testing for the presence of drugs in patients where for example, poisoning/abuse may be present. Drug abuse concerns the use of chemicals for pleasure or reward. Users of these chemicals may become dependent and suffer long-term consequences for health and wellbeing. The scale of drug abuse worldwide affects hundreds of millions of individuals, putting pressure on health and social care resources. In addition, addiction to prescription medication is recognised as a growing concern. In this module, you will explore the physiological mechanisms leading to drug addiction, the mechanisms of action and consequences of prolonged drug use, and strategies for detoxification and future avoidance. It also considers the role of the toxicology laboratory in monitoring prescribed drug therapies and management of accidental or deliberate overdose and ensuring the quality and safety of medication.

Compulsory

Cancer Biology and Therapeutics - 20 credits

Cancer continues to be one of humanity’s greatest health challenges and consequently, the development of anti-cancer therapies to improve the clinical management of cancers has been a central objective of the pharmaceutical industry and worldwide research efforts. This module will review the multiple oncogenic processes that allow cancer to arise, including consideration of emerging cancer hallmarks of metabolic adaptation, immune system evasion and the importance of the tumour microenvironment. Advances in understanding of molecular oncology has enabled the generation of rationally designed targeted therapies which selectively interfere with discrete oncogenic effectors. This new generation of therapies for specific cancers will be covered in detail and compared to traditional cytotoxic chemotherapeutics. Focus will also be given to new concepts that break away from traditional therapeutic paradigms by targeting the non-malignant, rather than malignant, cell components within tumours.

Compulsory

Advanced Topics in Cardiovascular and Neuropharmacology - 20 credits

This module considers two key areas which present contemporary pharmacological challenges. Cardiovascular conditions, heart disease and stroke are still major disease concerns globally. Events occurring in the brain are complex and, in some cases, still poorly understood. This module will consider the current challenges in cardiovascular and neuropharmacology and explore the potential opportunities and barriers to future developments.

Compulsory

Research Design - 20 credits

In this module, you will prepare for your final year research project and for life after graduation. The module will support you through the process of defining your research question, planning your experiments, and considering the most appropriate data analysis methods. The module will enhance skills in literature searching, experimental design, scientific writing, data processing and statistical analysis. You will be required to submit your proposal for ethical and health and safety approval, and to address key aspects of project management and logistics. The module will also consider how novel ideas and findings can be harnessed to deliver commercial value. The multidisciplinary nature of enterprise and innovation, opportunities for commercial development of ideas and an awareness of intellectual property will be discussed.

Compulsory

Independent Project - 20 credits

The aim of this module is for you to conduct a piece of investigative research, which may be laboratory or non-laboratory based, in a specialised area of pharmacology/related bioscience. This module follows from Research Design and you will implement your research proposal in this module. The variety and scope of projects allows you to pursue your own interests, potentially linked to future career aspirations, and to integrate prior skills and knowledge. Thus, this module, together with Research Design provides a capstone experience and is a key requirement for graduation with an Honours classification. You will be supported and guided by your supervisor, but are encouraged to develop independence of thought, and the ability and confidence to adapt and evolve your research ideas, based on reflective practice. The skills and competencies developed during the project period that enhance employability will be articulated in a short personal skills reflection.

Compulsory

The foundation year offers an introduction to your chosen subject and supports you to develop the skills required for degree-level study.

Modules

Introduction to Health and Disease - 30 credits

This module introduces how ill health and diseases develop and their effects on cellular systems, organs, organ systems and homeostatic control mechanisms at a chemical/molecular level.

As well as exploring the relationship between pathophysiological changes to the structure and function of body systems and the most common causes of morbidity, mortality and sickness absence, you will also consider the inter-relationships between specific health issues and how they impact on homeostatic control, and therefore cause key signs and symptoms.

We will also cover epidemiology, risk factors and preventative strategies. Emphasis is placed on understanding the key pathophysiological changes that accompany a particular health issue or disease, and on the physiological and biochemical basis of current and possible future therapies.

Compulsory

Foundation of Anatomy and Physiology - 30 credits

Here, we focus on physiological systems in the human body and how these systems interact to create a steady state (homeostasis). An introduction into the basic anatomical structures of the main biological systems in the human body is explored, while observing the function and purpose of these systems and how they help to regulate homeostasis.

Compulsory

Introduction to Cell Biology - 30 credits

This module is designed to provide you with the cell biology knowledge and skills required for a successful transition to year one study in bioscience disciplines. The material covered is at a level corresponding to pre-university qualifications such as A levels in the UK. The module provides a foundation of knowledge in cell biology, and there is a strong emphasis on the application of the subject in bioscience contexts.

You will examine the facts, principles and concepts of cell biology such as the key molecular components of cells and organelles, as well as their function, and genetics. You will progress to developing the skills required to use this knowledge and will also learn to understand scientific methods, advances in technology relevant to cell biology and their effects on society.

You will also bring together knowledge and understanding of how different areas of cell biology relate to each other and other areas of bioscience.

Compulsory

Foundation of Chemistry - 30 credits

Foundation of Chemistry aims to equip you with the knowledge and skills of chemistry to progress to degree-level study. The material corresponds to A level qualifications in the UK.

The module provides a foundation of knowledge and understanding of the main branches of chemistry. You will be introduced to the major aspects of chemical terminology, as well as a range of organic and inorganic materials, and physical chemistry. You should also develop an understanding of scientific methods, and the link between theory and practical experiments, as there is a strong emphasis on the practical application of the subject, in the context of biosciences.

You will bring together knowledge of how different areas of chemistry relate to each other and other areas of bioscience, and the use of chemistry in society.

Compulsory

We regularly review our course content, to make it relevant and current for the benefit of our students. For these reasons, course modules may be updated.

How you'll learn

The foundation year programme is focused on applied learning geared to high-intensity teaching and study throughout the programme, requiring full commitment from students. The delivery of course content is a blend of lectures, tutorials and online mediums.

Unlike traditional institutions, there are no end-of-year exams. Instead, learning is assessed through coursework which is more reflective of a working environment.

Teaching contact hours

As a full-time undergraduate student, you will study modules totalling 120 credits each academic year. A typical 20 credit module requires a total of 200 hours study. This is made up of teaching contact hours, guided and independent study.

Teaching hours:

Teaching hours vary each semester, year of study and due to module selection. During your first year you can expect 15-18 teaching hours each week. You will also have the option to attend optional sessions including time with a progress coach or to meet with staff for advice and feedback. As you progress through your studies, teaching hours may reduce.

Guided and independent study:

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You’ll be digging deeper into topics, review what you’ve learnt and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you’ll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning:

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

The foundation year will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module and may include:

phase tests
essays
group work
presentations
reports
projects
coursework
individual assignments.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

Throughout your studies, you will have the opportunity to develop a good knowledge of a range of disciplines and how they apply to human health and disease and how drugs are developed, work and used in the treatment of disease. Your learning experience will include a mix of both theory and lab-based classes.

Teaching contact hours

Teaching hours:

Guided and independent study:

Throughout your studies, you will be expected to spend time in guided and independent study to make up the required study hours per module. You’ll be digging deeper into topics, review what you’ve learned and complete assignments. This can be completed around your personal commitments. As you progress through your studies, you’ll spend more time in independent study.

Online learning:

As an innovative university, we use different teaching methods including online tools and emerging technologies. So, some of your teaching hours and assessments may be delivered online.

Assessment

This course will be assessed using a variety of methods which will vary depending upon the module. The assessment methods may include:

phase tests
essays
group work
presentations
reports
projects
coursework
exams
individual assignments.

The Coventry University Group assessment strategy ensures that our courses are fairly assessed and allows us to monitor student progression towards achieving the intended learning outcomes.

International experience opportunities

Medical research takes place in higher education institutions, research institutes, hospitals and industry throughout the world. This international perspective is reflected in a number of modules on the course, which deal with issues of global importance, such as drug discovery and development from natural products including treatments for malaria, HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis and worm infections (helminths).

There may be an opportunity for online collaboration with overseas institutions on a joint problem-based learning assignment. For example, previous students have joined others from University of Seville investigating the prevalence and approach to managing neurodegenerative disorders and the differing policies with regard to legal highs within the UK and Spain. Our sandwich degree option also allows a year’s work placement or study, which can be taken abroad².

Please note that all international experience opportunities may be subject to additional costs, competitive application, availability and meeting applicable visa and travel requirements are therefore not guaranteed².

One of the best parts of my job as an academic is to observe how our students develop and gain confidence as scientists and go on to succeed in their chosen degree and career pathway.
Sadie Dean, Course Director for Pharmacology BSc (Hons), 2022

Entry requirements

Typical entry requirements:

64 UCAS tariff points. All foundation courses require GCSE maths and English at grade 4 / C or Functional Skills Level 2, or other equivalent Level 2 awards, and at least one A2 level or a BTEC equivalent qualification.

Other qualifications and experience

Our students come from a variety of backgrounds, each with a unique story. We recognise a breadth of qualifications. If your qualifications differ from the above, contact our Admissions Team who will be happy to discuss your qualifications and routes into your chosen course.

Contextual offers and Fair Access Scheme

If you meet the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme, you could automatically receive a contextual offer that may be up to 24 UCAS points lower than our standard entry requirements. View the criteria for our Fair Access Scheme.

Got higher grades? Have you considered direct entry to the degree without foundation year?

Fees and funding

Foundation year

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£9,535	Not available
International/EU	Not currently available***	Not available

Degree

Student	Full-time	Part-time
UK, Ireland*, Channel Islands or Isle of Man	£9,535 per year	Not available
International/EU	Not currently available***	Not available

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement² or study abroad year, you will need to pay a tuition fee³ to cover your academic support throughout your placement year. Students commencing their professional placement in the academic year 2027/28 will pay £1,500.

For advice and guidance on tuition fees and student loans visit our Undergraduate Finance page and see The University’s Tuition Fee and Refund Terms and Conditions.

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permits an increase in tuition fees, the university may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2027/28. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above inflation.

For international students, we may increase fees each year, but such increases will be no more than 5% above inflation. If you defer your course start date or have to extend your studies beyond the normal duration of the course (e.g. to repeat a year or resit examinations) the University reserves the right to charge you fees at a higher rate and/or in accordance with any legislative changes during the additional period of study.

We offer a range of International scholarships to students all over the world. For more information, visit our International Scholarships page.

Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching, assessments, facilities and support services. There may be additional costs not covered by this fee such as accommodation and living costs, recommended reading books, stationery, printing and re-assessments should you need them. Find out what's included in your tuition costs.

Applies to degree only:

The following are additional costs not included in the tuition fees:

Any optional overseas ﬁeld trips or visits: £400+ per trip.
Any costs associated with securing, attending or completing a placement (whether in the UK or abroad).

Foundation year funding

In order to receive funding for degree with foundation year courses, you will need to complete a four-year degree programme which includes the integrated foundation year, otherwise you may be responsible for your foundation year fees. For further information, please refer to the 'Tuition Fee Loan' details in the 'Funding your undergraduate course' section of our 'Fees and finance' page.

*Irish student fees

The rights of Irish residents to study in the UK are preserved under the Common Travel Area arrangement. If you are an Irish student and meet the residency criteria, you can study in England, pay the same level of tuition fees as English students and utilise the Tuition Fee Loan.

**This course with foundation year is not currently available to international students. If you do not meet the entry requirements to directly join year 1 of the degree, please take a look at our International Pathways Programme for additional options.

How do you know if you need to pay UK or international tuition fees?

We carry out an initial fee status assessment based on the information you provide in your application. Your fee status determines your tuition fees, and what financial support and scholarships may be available to you. The rules about who pays UK (home) or international (overseas) fees for higher education courses in England are set by the Department for Education. The regulations identify all the different categories of student who can insist on paying the home rate. The regulations can be difficult to understand, so the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) has provided fee status guidance to help you identify whether you are eligible to pay the home or overseas rate.

If you meet all the criteria required by any one category, including any residence requirements, your institution must charge you the home rate. You only need to find one category that you fit into.

Facilities

Our foundation years are taught at CU Coventry’s Mile Lane building, a short walk from the city centre. You’re part of the university from day one, so during your foundation year you’ll have access to the wider facilities at Coventry University. Once you successfully complete your foundation year, you'll transfer over to studying your chosen degree at Coventry University, where you'll be taught on campus in the relevant academic buildings.

Facilities are subject to availability. Access to some facilities (including some teaching and learning spaces) may vary from those advertised and/or may have reduced availability or restrictions where the university is following public authority guidance, decisions or orders.

Located on our Mile Lane campus, you will have access to our Library and Learning Services (LLS), fully equipped seminar rooms and IT suites⁴. You can also take advantage of reading rights in Coventry University’s Lanchester Library, make use of sport centre facilities and receive full membership to Your Students' Union.

Two students walking outside with the CU Coventry building behind them.

Mile Lane

The campus is home to an on-site library with bookable one-to-one academic writing service and library support sessions, fully equipped seminar rooms, open-access study areas, a café and an IT suite. Our labs contain industry-standard equipment so that you learn using the same equipment as many industry professionals.

The Hub

At The Hub you'll find the Health and Wellbeing Centre, the Students’ Union and Square One (which provides entertainment from quiz nights to live music), the Spirituality and Faith Centre, Tank Studio, Careers Office and a fantastic food court.

Lanchester Library

Coventry University’s Lanchester Library is usually open 24/7 in term-time, and has 1,400 study spaces, including group and silent areas. It also currently offers more than 550 computers and an additional 120 free-to-loan laptops.

The degree will be predominantly taught in the multi-million-pound Alison Gingell Building on the Coventry University main campus. It is home to microbiology, cell culture, molecular biology/genetics, biochemistry and forensic science laboratories, allowing you to work in a professional environment from day one⁴.

Alison Gingell Building

The Alison Gingell Building is home to microbiology, cell culture, molecular biology/genetics, biochemistry and forensic science laboratories, allowing you to work in a replicated professional environment from day one.

Laboratory with people wearing white coats taking samples

SuperLab

Our SuperLab has facilities for cell culture and equipment for microscopy, DNA, RNA and protein analysis, and forensic testing.

Students using physiology testing equipment

Physiology suite

Separate physiology and health laboratory facilities enable the measurement of physiological parameters such as heart rate, blood pressure, lung function test and neuromuscular functioning.

Careers and opportunities

A large number of medical scientists are employed by companies in the pharmaceutical industry, where they are involved in discovering and developing drugs and carrying out clinical trials. Medical scientists may also work for contract research organisations (CROs) or academic departments within universities on research projects. There are also career options within government laboratories (including environmental agencies), charity-funded research organisations, such as the Medical Research Council (MRC), and with other research institutes. 

This course is specifically designed to provide you with the opportunity to develop the skills and knowledge required for a career in a range of sectors in a variety of roles in companies and organisations in both the UK and abroad. In addition to discipline specific theory and practical laboratory competence, you will also develop transferrable skills in digital fluency, numeracy, communication and teamwork.

The scientific knowledge and skills you acquire during the course can be a useful basis for a career in: teaching; technical and scientific writing (such as medical writing or writing for the media); clinical trials; drug registration, patenting or monitoring; medical publishing or other information services; regulatory affairs or sales and marketing.

Upon successful completion of your course, you will be equipped with the knowledge and hands on practical experience required from the scientific and pharmaceutical industries to maintain and advance their activities to meet the global challenges of health and disease. There is also a growing demand for highly skilled staff with the ability to work in multidisciplinary teams, right across industry, in the health service, government establishments, research and educational institutions and our degree is designed to give you a wide range of key skills that will be attractive to such employers.

Coventry University is committed to preparing you for your future career and giving you a competitive edge in the graduate job market. We provide a wide range of support services to help you plan and prepare for your career.

Where our graduates work

Our graduates have gone on to careers in drug discovery and development, clinical trials development and governance within the pharmaceutical industry and university and hospital departments. Examples include working as a regulatory strategist and trials manager for Pfizer, as an education administrator for Education for Health and as activities coordinator for the TLC group.

Further study

The course is an excellent foundation for further postgraduate studies leading to an MSc or PhD. We run a range or related taught MSc courses that allow our graduates to specialise in the area that they have a passion for and would like to pursue a career in. These courses also have a ‘with professional experience’ option, allowing students to apply for and complete an extended period of experience in a professional environment.

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Learn more about Phoenix+

How to apply

BSc (Hons) with foundation year

Apply via UCAS

C85

Institution code

View our courses on UCAS

Visit UCAS

UK students

Full-time students can apply for this course through UCAS. Read our application pages to find out your next steps to apply.

How to apply

Apply via UCAS

If this course has a part-time option you will need to apply directly to the university.

Apply via the portal

If you'd like further support or more information about your course get in touch with us today.

+44 (0)24 7765 2222

ukadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

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International students

International codes:
CHLSU251I

How to apply

For further support for international applicants applying for an undergraduate degree view our International hub.

You can also download our International mini guide for an overview of study options and why you should study with us.

Get in touch with us today for further advice and guidance.

+44 (0)24 7765 2152

ioadmissions@coventry.ac.uk

Complete our contact form

Disclaimers

Study location

The Foundation Year study route will be delivered by CU, part of the Coventry University Group, for and on behalf of Coventry University.

If you choose to study at CU Coventry for your Foundation Year, then your learning will be based at CU Coventry, Mile Lane, Coventry. Subject to meeting progression requirements you will then transition to the relevant Coventry University subject building for your progression degree.

Coventry University together with Coventry University London, Coventry University Wrocław, CU Coventry, CU London, CU Scarborough, and Coventry University Online come together to form part of the Coventry University Group (the University) with all degrees awarded by Coventry University.

¹Accreditations

The majority of our courses have been formally recognised by professional bodies, which means the courses have been reviewed and tested to ensure they reach a set standard. In some instances, studying on an accredited course can give you additional benefits such as exemptions from professional exams (subject to availability, fees may apply). Accreditations, partnerships, exemptions and memberships shall be renewed in accordance with the relevant bodies’ standard review process and subject to the university maintaining the same high standards of course delivery.

²UK and international opportunities

Please note that we are unable to guarantee any UK or international opportunities (whether required or optional) such as internships, work experience, field trips, conferences, placements or study abroad opportunities and that all such opportunities may be unpaid and/or subject to additional costs (which could include, but is not limited to, equipment, materials, bench fees, studio or facilities hire, travel, accommodation and visas), competitive application, availability and/or meeting any applicable travel, public authority guidance, decisions or orders and visa requirements. To ensure that you fully understand any visa requirements, please contact the International Office.

³Tuition fees

The University will charge the tuition fees that are stated in the above table for the first Academic Year of study. The University will review tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, if Parliament permit an increase in tuition fees, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study in line with any such changes. Note that any increase is expected to be in line with inflation.

If you choose to study this course with a professional placement, the University will charge the tuition fees stated above for those on a placement during Academic Year 2025/26. The University will review professional placement tuition fees each year. For UK (home) students, the University may increase fees for each subsequent year of study, but such that it will be no more than 5% above inflation.

⁴Facilities

Student Contract

By accepting your offer of a place and enrolling with us, a Student Contract will be formed between you and the university. A copy of the current 2024/2025 contract is available on the website for information purposes however the 2025/2026 contract will apply for the 2025/2026 intake. The Contract details your rights and the obligations you will be bound by during your time as a student and contains the obligations that the university will owe to you. You should read the Contract before you accept an offer of a place and before you enrol at the university.