Pharmacology

Pharmacology is the science of drug action on biological systems. It deals with the sources, chemical properties, biological effects, mechanisms of action, therapeutic uses, and adverse effects of drugs. It is a science that is basic not only to medicine, but also to pharmacy, nursing, dentistry, midwifery, and veterinary medicine. Pharmacologists’ work ranges from exploring the potential hazards of pesticides and herbicides, to developing treatment and prevention of major diseases by drug therapy.  While a Bachelor of Sciences Pharmacology degree shares similarities with both the PharmD and Bachelor of Pharmaceutical Sciences degrees, the BSc Pharmacology program has a more detailed focus on drug mechanisms of action, and pre-clinical techniques used to investigate the beneficial and detrimental effects of these compounds; graduates of this program are qualified for basic research in the field, as well as further training for myriad professional programs in the Life Sciences fields.

Pharmacology is available as a major or honours degree, both of which can be completed with 12-16 months of co-operative work experience. Students apply for admission as part of the coordinated specialization program after completion of their first year in the Faculty of Science.|All classes are held at the UBC Vancouver campus.|The program emphasizes the experimental and laboratory aspects of pharmacology – you will learn both whole animal and isolated tissue techniques, as well as biochemical and chemical procedures. You’ll build skills research, designing appropriate experiments, carrying out experiments individually and as a member of a team, analyzing data, and communicating and writing effectively.  These skills can be further trained through co-operative work experiences following your third year of study.  The breadth of knowledge and skill development within the BSc Pharmacology program places students in high demand for both co-operative work positions and employment opportunities following graduation.