ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ

Key facts

Typical offer

UCAS points:

96


A Level:

CCC

3 A levels including Biology or Chemistry at grade C or above and at least one of the following also at grade C or above: Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths, Statistics, Physics or Psychology. The third A level may be in a non-science subject. General Studies and UCAS points from EPQs are not accepted.


BTEC:

MMM in Applied Science

Please note applicants must have studied the following units: Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Applications of Organic Chemistry, Industrial Chemical Reactions and Practical Chemical Analysis.

Key facts

Duration:

5 yrs full-time


Study mode:

Full-time


UCAS code:

B231


Institution code:

D26

Typical offer

UCAS points:

96


A Level:

CCC

3 A levels including Biology or Chemistry at grade C or above and at least one of the following also at grade C or above: Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths, Statistics, Physics or Psychology. The third A level may be in a non-science subject. General Studies and UCAS points from EPQs are not accepted.


BTEC:

MMM in Applied Science

Please note applicants must have studied the following units: Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Applications of Organic Chemistry, Industrial Chemical Reactions and Practical Chemical Analysis.

UCAS code

B231

Duration

Five years integrated with Pharmacy MPharm (Hons)

Study mode

Full-time

Start your journey to becoming a pharmacist with ÐßÐßÊÓÆµâ€™s Pharmacy with Preparatory Year MPharm – a solid foundation for a rewarding career in healthcare.

Overview

Taught in the Leicester School of Pharmacy - one of the UK’s longest established and well-respected pharmacy schools, the pharmacy preparatory course is a focused pathway for aspiring pharmacists who don’t have the grades for direct entry on to the MPharm programme. As a Preparatory Year student, you’ll belong to our pharmacy community, accessing pharmaceutical laboratories, pharmacy simulation suites and wider university facilities, while receiving tailored support that ensures you feel prepared, connected and ready to succeed.

ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ’s distinctive block teaching approach gives you focused time with academic experts, helping you build strong foundations in chemistry, biology, maths, study skills and communication. You’ll gain hands-on scientific experience and early insight into the pharmacy profession, supported by a school with a proud heritage of producing skilled, compassionate pharmacists.

After successfully completing the preparatory year course and meeting non-academic criteria for continuation, you’ll progress directly onto our GPhC-accredited Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) programme.

Key features

  • Build strong foundational skills: The preparatory year equip students with the relevant academic skills and knowledge needed for success on the MPharm.
  • Expert teaching: Learn from subject experts in the Leicester School of Pharmacy where we combine academic excellence with high levels of personalised support.
  • A renowned reputation: Benefit from over 120 years of teaching experience in the renowned Leicester School of Pharmacy.
  • Collaborative learning: Work alongside future health and social care professionals, gaining valuable team-based learning experience.
  • Career ready: ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ MPharm graduates have gone on to rewarding careers across all sectors of pharmacy, including roles in community pharmacies, NHS settings, primary care, and the pharmaceutical industry.
  • GPHC accredited: Our Pharmacy with Preparatory Year is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), reflecting the high level of teaching and learning on the course.

Our next Open Day is on
Saturday 07 February

Join us in 2 days and 19 hours.

Student ambassador waiting to welcome guests with a sign that reads here to help.

What you will study

Human Biology

This module aims to introduce human body systems, how they are organised and integrated into physiological processes. It is intended to serve as a foundation for the study of anatomy, physiology and histology on the Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) undergraduate degree programme.

Basic Microbiology for Biomedical Science

Introduces you to aspects of fundamental microbiology required for the Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) programme. The classes provide a knowledge base on the range, characteristics and properties of micro-organisms. Topics covered include the structural, metabolic, and genetic characteristics of micro-organisms. Where appropriate those features will be used to begin to discuss the importance of micro-organisms to man, particularly in relation to infection, disease and the control of micro-organisms.

Introduction to Psychology

Introduces the main theoretical approaches and perspectives in psychology. You will also be introduced to psychological and physiological explanations of cognition and human behaviour. Historical developments, treatments and therapies of related case studies such as depression, stress, mental illness and schizophrenia will be considered in context of contemporary issues.

Study Skills 1: Introduction to ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ

Provides you with the opportunity to participate in a range of on- and off-campus activities for a thorough introduction into the life and culture at ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ and the City of Leicester, to enable you to integrate more fully into both. Ten activities are offered and you will be required to engage in at least of four of these during the term. The list of activities is made up of the following (or similar):

  • Campus tour
  • Talk on and tour of the city
  • LRC introduction and workshop
  • Introduction to the Square Mile Project
  • Freshers’ Fair
  • Involvement in a University club or society
  • ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ social event/gathering
  • ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ/City sporting activity
  • Seminar on cultural awareness
  • A visit to the Faculty which offers the student’s chosen degree programme.

Study Skills 2: Information Technology and Numeracy

Aims to give you the appropriate foundation in computing and numeracy skills for success at undergraduate level. Your prior learning in computing and mathematics is consolidated and then enhanced with the introduction of new topics and approaches relevant to study in the UK Higher Education environment. Teaching and study time are divided equally between IT skills and basic mathematics required for undergraduate study with an overlap between the two in classes on statistics and study of spreadsheet construction. The IT element includes tuition in the use of three key programmes in Microsoft Office – Word, Excel and PowerPoint, retrieving and assessing material through the use of internet search engines and the using e-mail. Mathematics includes the performance of a range of algebraic calculations, fractions, decimals, ratios, percentages, powers, roots and the solving of equations, the gathering and presentation of statistical information and the fundamentals of probability.

Study Skills 3: Communication Skills

Will support and enhance the key learning elements in the final term of English for Academic Purposes, to improve learner self-awareness and give students insight into the use and effectiveness of learner platforms and academic forums. You will study referencing in academic writing and how to avoid plagiarism, experience note-taking in a lecture hall environment and develop your speaking capabilities and confidence by undertaking exercises in public speaking and debating. The module will have a focus on ‘learning to learn’ to help you improve your self-study abilities and develop as an independent learner. You will also experience group work to improve your ability to work in a team to produce a piece of academic work.

Functions of Cells and Tissues

Introduces basic concepts of anatomy, histology and physiology as an integrated experience of theory and laboratory observation. It is intended to serve as a preparation and foundation for histopathology/physiology studies delivered in the Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) programme. Topics covered include: cellular anatomy, cellular function, how cells form tissues, physiological function of tissues, and form and function of tissues.

Chemistry 1

Introduces post-GCSE topics in chemistry and builds the subject knowledge and practical skills required for further study. You will begin to develop your understanding of basic theoretical principles and associate these with appropriate laboratory practice. You will consider: formulae, equations and moles; atomic structure; an introduction to redox; thermodynamics; and bonding. This module prepares students for Chemistry 2 and together these two modules form the basis for study of Pharmacy at degree level.

Chemistry 2

Aims to introduce further topics in chemistry and to build on the subject knowledge and practical skills acquired and developed in Chemistry 1. You will further develop your understanding of basic theoretical principles and associated laboratory practice, and appreciate the social, environmental, economic and technological impact of chemistry on the wider community.

Introductory Biochemistry

Provides the fundamental aspects of introductory biochemistry necessary for an understanding of the specialised subjects dealt with later in the Pharmacy MPharm (Hons) degree programme. The practical classes will place emphasis on lab safety and will introduce the basic principles in biochemistry. The material in this module also underpins the biochemistry required. Basic biochemical processes and concepts relevant to human health and disease will be explored.

Note: All modules are indicative and based on the current academic session. Course information is correct at the time of publication and is subject to review. Exact modules may, therefore, vary for your intake in order to keep content current. If there are changes to your course we will, where reasonable, take steps to inform you as appropriate.

The number of reassessment opportunities on this programme is restricted to 120 credits with no more than two per module.

Our facilities

The Pharmacy Suite

Take a s c r o l l through campus

Experience a virtual tour of campus at your own pace.

Jump in

Our expertise

Profile picture for Simon Swallow

Simon Swallow

Senior Lecturer and Deputy Programme Lead

Simon has been a pharmacist for over 30 years, with experience in both community pharmacy and general practice. He has led multi-site operations and managed teams in diverse settings. Since 2019, he has been part of the Pharmacy Practice teaching team at ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ. Supporting students as they grow, learn, and go on to become successful pharmacists is, for him, the most fulfilling aspect of his work.

Profile picture for Helen Root

Helen Root

Associate Professor and Head of Pharmacy Practice

Helen is an Associate Professor here at ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ’s Leicester School of Pharmacy, she brings over 25 years of community pharmacy experience with a passion for pharmacy education. Helen Specialises in pharmacy Law and Ethics, and leads MPharm placements and has program programme development.. A dedicated educator and mentor, Helen actively contributes to equality initiatives and fosters excellence in pharmacy education at ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ.

Profile picture for Nilam Jussab

Nilam Jussab

Senior Lecturer

Nilam is a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice at ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ, where she has taught since 2013. Her passion lies in diabetes research and student development. With over a decade of community pharmacy experience, she integrates real-world practice into teaching, mentoring future pharmacists across undergraduate and postgraduate programmes.

Profile picture for Ryan Hamilton

Ryan Hamilton

Associate Professor in Antimicrobials

Ryan is an Associate Professor at ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ and a Consultant Antimicrobial Pharmacist at Kettering General Hospital. His research focuses on antimicrobial resistance, patient experience, and innovative drug delivery. Passionate about pharmacy education and policy, he works closely with NHS England and professional bodies to improve antimicrobial stewardship and clinical practice nationwide.

Profile picture for Mohsen Seifi

Mohsen Seifi

Senior Lecturer

Mohsen is a neuropharmacologist with extensive experience in multidisciplinary medical research and a passion for science communication. His work focuses on the enteric nervous system and how factors like stress and ageing influence disorders such as inflammatory bowel disease, Alzheimer's, and Parkinson's. He is dedicated to exploring gut-brain connections and their clinical implications.

Profile picture for Beenal Rajyaguru

Beenal Rajyaguru

Senior Lecturer

Beenal is a Senior Lecturer in Clinical Pharmacy at ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ. A registered pharmacist since 2007, she specialises in paediatric pharmacy, allergy, and anaphylaxis. Beenal leads children's pharmacy education within the MPharm programme and contributes to postgraduate nursing courses. Her research focuses on improving medicine use in primary school children across Leicestershire and Rutland.

Accreditations, awards or memberships

GPhC logo (teal text on a white background)

General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)

Our Pharmacy with Preparatory Year is accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), reflecting the high level of teaching and learning on the course. Our four year MPharm is also accredited by the GPhC.

Take your next steps

An open day visitor and a member of staff at an open day.

Open Days - Book your place

We’d love to welcome you to one of our university Open Days where you can see for yourself what we have to offer.

4 students hanging out on campus in front of some high quality graffiti

Find out about Leicester

We’re a campus-based university situated in the city centre, with the hub of activity in Leicester right on your doorstep - we’re one of the few universities in the UK where you’re getting the best of both worlds.

How to apply

Save these details for your application.
Programme title:
Pharmacy with Preparatory Year MPharm (Hons)
Programme code:
B231

UCAS applications

  1. Register on UCAS Hub (create an account)
  2. Fill in your UCAS application form:
  3. Personal details (name, contact, residency)
    • More about you (any mental health conditions or long-term illnesses, parenting responsibilities, whether you’ve served in the armed forces)
    • Education history (qualifications taken or pending)
    • Employment history (if applicable)
    • Course choice
  4. Write your personal statement (why you want to study the course, skills, achievements, future goals)
  5. Get your reference (usually from a teacher/tutor/employer)
  6. Pay the UCAS fee (single choice or multiple choices)
  7. Submit the UCAS application before the deadline.
Save these details for your application.
Programme title:
Pharmacy with Preparatory Year MPharm (Hons)
Programme code:
B231

Apply directly as an international student

Find out more and apply
  1. Visit ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ’s international section and select the course you wish to apply for as an undergraduate or postgraduate student.
  2. Prepare your documents - gather the essentials:
    • Academic transcripts and certificates
    • Personal statement
    • English language proficiency evidence (e.g., IELTS)
    • Portfolio (if required by the course)
    • Copy of your passport
  3. Complete the application - submit via the ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ Online Portal
  4. Submit the application and supporting documents - you can still receive a conditional offer even if some documents will follow later
  5. Application review and offer - ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ’s Admissions team will assess your application and issue:
    • A conditional offer (pending remaining docs, test results, etc.)
    • Or an unconditional offer, if all requirements are fulfilled

Key facts

Course title

Pharmacy with Preparatory Year

Award

MPharm (Hons)

UCAS code

B231

Institution code

D26

Study level

Foundation

Study mode

Full-time

Start date

September

Duration

Five years integrated with Pharmacy MPharm (Hons)

Fees

2026/27 UK tuition fees:
£9,535*

*subject to a compounded annual inflationary increase announced by the government in October 2025, the amount of which is yet to be confirmed for the 2026/27 academic year

Entry requirements

Typical offer

UCAS points:

96


A Level:

CCC

3 A levels including Biology or Chemistry at grade C or above and at least one of the following also at grade C or above: Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Further Maths, Statistics, Physics or Psychology. The third A level may be in a non-science subject. General Studies and UCAS points from EPQs are not accepted.


BTEC Extended Diploma:

MMM in Applied Science

Please note applicants must have studied the following units: Applications of Inorganic Chemistry, Applications of Organic Chemistry, Industrial Chemical Reactions and Practical Chemical Analysis.


Contextual Offer:

This course does not provide contextual offers due to capacity management. To find out more about our contextual offer policy at ÐßÐßÊÓÆµ, head to dmu.ac.uk/contextual


T Levels:

Pass in Science (C or above on the core)


Access to HE:

Pass Access to Science HE diploma with equivalent to 96 tariff points, to include 15 level three chemistry or biology credits at merit

English Language and Maths GCSEs required as separate qualifications.


International Baccalaureate (IB):

26


GCSEs:

GCSEs at grade 4/C or above including English Language and Maths


English language requirements

If English is not your first language an IELTS score of 6.5 overall, with no element at lower than 6.0, or equivalent (by end of YZ)

English language tuition, delivered by our British Council-accredited Centre for English Language Learning, is available both before and throughout the course if you need it.

Additional application stages

Interview: Yes

Interviews will take place online via Microsoft Teams. To find out more about interviewing for a course please visit our interview advice page.

Non-academic requirements

Self-declaration form: Yes

Enhanced DBS check: No

Occupational Health clearance: No

Once you progress from the preparatory year to Pharmacy Year 1, you will be required to complete your enhanced DBS application and occupational health check.

Additional information

Continuance on the preparatory year Pharmacy MPharm programme is subject to annual completion of a self-declaration (from Level 3) and enhanced DBS (from Level 4 onwards).

Failure to engage with this process will result in a review of your continued registration, the normal outcome of which will be discontinuation of your registration from the preparatory year programme. For international students a certificate of good conduct from your home country is required in lieu of a DBS check.

Please note that we do not normally accept applicants who have previously enrolled on a Pharmacy MPharm degree or a science foundation degree/year zero in the UK.

Availability: This course has a limited number of places so that we can ensure a good quality placement experience. In exceptional circumstances this may result in the course becoming full before you have completed the admissions process. In this situation we will offer you the opportunity to be considered for a place on an alternative course.

You must meet and fulfil all non-academic requirements before 17 July 2026 to ensure your offer remains valid. Not meeting this deadline risks your offer being withdrawn at a later stage of the process.

Mature applicants need academic attainment normally no more than five years of joining the course.