MPharm Pharmacy with a Foundation Year

We work hard to ensure that our course can be completed without significant additional study costs over and above the tuition fee.

The two areas where additional costs can be incurred are travel to clinical placements and reading. In both of these situations, we seek to ensure that additional costs are kept as low as possible.

The University defines low cost as an annual cost that is no more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee.

We require grades DDC - BBC including Chemistry and Maths and/or Biology plus one further rigorous academic subject (excluding General Studies or Critical Thinking). You will also need to meet the widening participation selection criteria detailed on our application process page (`How your application is considered').

We do not accept AS grades in place of A2-level grades.

The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit information where available. Like all other information provided by applicants this may be taken into consideration when assessing your application. Unit grades will not normally form part of an offer conditions.

We require at least five GCSEs at minimum grade 5 (B) including English Language and Mathematics. We will accept C+ in the Northern Ireland reformed GCSE.

For applicants whose status has been confirmed as WP+ using the University's Contextual Data Eligibility tool, we will allow an overall reduction of 2 grades on the full GCSE requirements. Please note, however, that no individual subject should be lower than C/4.

For applicants whose status has been confirmed as WP++ using the University's Contextual Data Eligibility tool, we will allow an overall reduction of 4 grades on the full GCSE requirements. Please note, however, that no individual subject should be lower than C/4. 

For UK students who have taken the International Baccalaureate we require 28-30 with grades 5,4,4 in higher level Chemistry, alongside higher level Biology and standard level Mathematics or Higher level Mathematics and standard level Biology.

For this programme of study we will accept: Higher Level Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation.

Applicants must also meet the University’s contextual admissions requirements (widening participation). Further information about the selection criteria is detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered').

Because of the nature of the programme we do not consider international applications.

For those applicants who meet the widening participation selection criteria detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered) we will consider grades BBBCC to include Chemistry and either Biology or Maths, alongside grade C in Advanced Higher Chemistry

The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate and usually requires two A Levels or equivalent to be included within this.

We consider applicants who meet the widening participation selection criteria detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered) and require grades DC-BC in Chemistry and either Biology or Maths, alongside the Welsh Baccalaureate at grade B. 

If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification please contact ug.pharmacy@manchester.ac.uk

The University of Manchester welcomes applicants with the European Baccalaureate. Acceptable on its own or in combination with other qualifications, applications from students studying for this qualification are welcome and all applicants will be considered on an individual basis.  

We accept the European Baccalaureate on its own or in combination with other qualifications.

Applications from students studying for this qualification are welcome and all such applicants will be considered on an individual basis.

Contact us for further information.

The University recognises the benefits of the AQA Baccalaureate and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills.

In making offers, the University will focus on the three A Levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate. Students need to check the standard A Level requirements for their chosen course.

The units of broader study, enrichment activities and the Extended Project are considered to be valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate and we would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement.

BTEC National Extended Diploma

We require successful completion of a BTEC National Extended Diploma (science-based only, please note we will not accept Health and Social Care) at grades DDD along with GCSE-level English Language and Mathematics at grade 5.

Applicants must also meet the University’s contextual admissions requirements (widening participation). Further information about the selection criteria is detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered).

BTEC National Diploma

We will consider the BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (science-based only, please note we will not accept Health and Social Care) at grade DD alongside either Chemistry or Biology A-level at grade C. You will also need to meet the GCSE requirements.

Applicants must also meet the University’s contextual admissions requirements (widening participation). Further information about the selection criteria is detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered).

BTEC National Foundation Diploma

We will consider the BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma (science-based only, please note we will not accept Health and Social Care) at Grade D alongside A-level Chemistry and either Biology or Mathematics at grades BC. You will also need to meet the GCSE requirements.

Applicants must also meet the University’s c ontextual admissions requirements (widening participation). Further information about the selection criteria is detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered).

BTEC National Extended Certificate

We accept the BTEC National Extended Certificate at grade D in lieu of the third A-level only. It must be offered alongside A-level Chemistry and either A-level Biology or Mathematics at grades BC. You will also need to meet the GCSE requirements.

Applicants must also meet the University’s c ontextual admissions requirements (widening participation). Further information about the selection criteria is detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered).

Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma

We require successful completion of a Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma (science-based only, please note we will not accept Health and Social Care) at grades DDD along with GCSE-level English Language and Mathematics at grade 5. Applicants must also meet the University’s contextual admissions requirements (widening participation). Further information about the selection criteria is detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered).

Cambridge Technical Diploma

We will consider the Cambridge Technical Diploma (science-based only, please note we will not accept Health and Social Care) at grade DD alongside either Chemistry or Biology A-level at grade C. You will also need to meet the GCSE requirements. Applicants must also meet the University’s contextual admissions requirements (widening participation). Further information about the selection criteria is detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered).

Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma

We will consider the Cambridge Technical Foundation Diploma (science-based only, please note we will not accept Health and Social Care) at Grade D alongside A-level Chemistry and either Biology or Mathematics at grades BC. You will need to meet the GCSE requirement and also meet the University's contextual admissions requirements (widening participation). Further information about the selection criteria is detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered).

Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate

We accept the Cambridge Technical Extended Certificate at grade D in lieu of the third A-level only. It must be offered alongside A-level Chemistry and either A-level Biology or Mathematics at grades BC. You will also need to meet the University's contextual admissions requirements (widening participation). Further information about the selection criteria is detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered).

We do not accept Access/foundation course applications to the Foundation Year.

We consider applicants offering Pre-U Principal Subjects, or a mix of Pre-U and A Level subjects provided you have achieved grades DDC-BCC including Chemistry and either Maths or Biology and one further rigorous academic subject (not General Studies or Critical Thinking).

Applicants must also meet the University’s contextual admissions requirements (widening participation). Further information about the selection criteria is detailed on our application process page (How your application is considered).  

We will only consider the Science T-level pathway for the Pharmacy Foundation Year. We would require a distinction grade overall.

A requirement of this programme is that applicants meet the University of Manchester’s contextual admissions requirements. We therefore would not accept this qualification.

The University welcomes and recognises the value of Level 3 core mathematics qualifications (e.g. AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies). 

Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study and as a result we will not normally include it in the conditions of any offer made to the student. However, if a student chooses to undertake a core mathematics qualification this may be taken into account when we consider their application, particularly for certain non-science courses with a distinct mathematical or statistical element.

We advise students to contact the academic School, who will clarify whether their specific portfolio of qualifications is acceptable for entry on to their chosen course.

If you are a student who has followed a non-standard educational route, e.g. you have been educated at home; your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course for which you are applying. You will be required to demonstrate that you meet the specified academic entry requirements of the course. We will also require a reference from somebody who knows you well enough, in an official capacity, to write about you and your suitability for higher education. If you are a home schooled student and would like further information or advice please contact the academic School for your chosen course who will be able to help you. 

Mature students are some of our most well-equipped learners, bringing skills and attributes gained from work, family and other life experiences.  Students come from a whole array of backgrounds, study every kind of course, undertake full-time and part-time learning and are motivated by career intentions as well as personal interest.  There is no such thing as a typical mature student at Manchester.

The application process is the same as for other prospective undergraduates.  If you require further clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the academic School(s) you plan to apply to.  Further information for mature students can be found here ( http://www.manchester.ac.uk/study/undergraduate/mature-students/ )

We require:

• GCSE, IGCSE or O-level at grade 5 (B) in English Language and Maths. We will accept C+ in the Northern Ireland reformed GCSE or
• IELTS grade 6.5 (with no component less than 6.0)
• TOEFL (iBT) 90

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Applicants should apply for either the MPharm or the Pharmacy Foundation Year and should not submit an application for both. Please ensure you check the entry requirements for each option before submitting your application. 

Please note that under planned new legislation, vaccination for Covid will be a mandatory requirement for any course with a clinical or healthcare placement in future.

Interviews will be scheduled via Zoom and will be conducted one-to-one with an academic member of staff.

The interviews will be timetabled for 20 minutes, and this will allow you to ask any questions you might have about the Foundation course.

We will ensure that you are given plenty of notice about the interview and, if necessary, we will be happy to reschedule if the date/time is inconvenient.

Please note that the interview is an essential part of the application process. Those who fail to attend, without prior explanation, will have their application withdrawn.

Applicants being considered for interview will receive a decision through UCAS Track and will be sent more information on the interview via email.

Events for offer holders

Following the interviews, our intention is to arrange on-campus offer holder events (from March 2022) to give you the opportunity to visit the University of Manchester campus, meet our staff and current students, and see the facilities in the Stopford Building.

We welcome applications from those wishing to return to education. All such applications are considered on an individual basis.

We would normally only consider applicants who obtained the relevant qualification within the three years prior to application. If your most recent qualification was taken more than three years ago, please contact the Admissions Office ( ug.pharmacy@manchester.ac.uk ).

We will consider each application individually and may require you to submit further information, such as transcripts and details of employment. 

Becoming a pharmacist after a UK-based course (advice from the Pharmacy Schools Council)

After the successful completion of the course, you will receive an MPharm degree. There are further steps to go through before you will be able to register with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and practise as a qualified pharmacist in the UK.

Once you have completed an MPharm, you will need to apply for a Foundation training year, where you will further develop the skills you gained during your degree as a paid employee in a professional environment.

Entrance to the Foundation training year is competitive and there is no guarantee that you will receive a place. A proportion of these Foundation training places are with the NHS, but the majority of placements involve working with community pharmacists.

Again, you should be aware that your place on the Foundation training year is not guaranteed, as the number of available placements is dependent on different factors.

One such factor is that the availability of Foundation year places offered by community pharmacies can vary from year to year. International students will require a Graduate Immigration route visa.

After the completion of 52 weeks of Foundation training, and subject to you passing the common registration assessment, you will be eligible to register with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC) and practise as a fully qualified pharmacist.

Please see the government's visas and immigration pages for further information.

All international applicants will need to provide a Certificate of Good Conduct from their home country at the point their application status is UF.

International applicants will need to submit an overseas police check and this will be included as a formal offer condition.

Pharmacy is one of the registered healthcare professions and carries both privileges and responsibilities. You must demonstrate that you are able to exercise those privileges and bear those responsibilities. To join the pharmacy profession at the end of your training, you must abide by the General Pharmaceutical Council's (GPhC) Student Code of Conduct and undergo a medical fitness assessment and a Disclosure and Barring Service check at the start of your degree.

When the time comes to apply to join the register of pharmacists, you must also make a health declaration and submit to character checks. If you wish to study pharmacy, you should note that your fitness to practise both before and/or during your studies may impair your eligibility to register and practice as a pharmacist.

Communication and dress code

We have adopted the same policy regarding dress code as set out by the General Medical Council (GMC). The GMC states that non-verbal communication is at least as important as verbal communication, and so how a student or pharmacist appears to patients, relatives or colleagues means as much as what he or she says.

It follows from the GMC guidance that students (and pharmacists) in professional settings must dress in a manner that adds to, and does not detract from, effective communication.

Furthermore, the Code of Conduct for Pharmacy Students states that students must learn how to listen to patients and their carers, and communicate effectively with them in a way they can understand.

How you appear as a student professional or a pharmacist is something all students and graduates must consider and respond to. In general, students should be clean and smartly dressed. The following are not permitted as they are deemed to be incompatible with effective, sensitive communication:

• wearing a t-shirt with slogans;
• baseball hats;
• visible body art;
• large amounts of body and face jewellery;
• revealing clothing that may be considered unacceptable by patients;
• covering most of the face.

This is true not only in clinical settings, but also throughout the educational elements of the undergraduate course, which is built around group work with other students and tutors.

In addition, the convention of some units may require wearing white coats or other approved clothing. Hair should be tied back if it interferes with, or adds risk, to a clinical interaction.

Students must be able to participate fully in communication and other skills training, discussion and assessment. As well as adhering to the dress code above, it means being able to interact fully with patients, standardised patients, teachers and examiners of any cultural or ethnic background or either gender.

Fitness to Practise procedures

Where a course requires the student to undertake practical training in a quasi-professional role in relation to patients, clients or service users, or where the qualification provides a direct licence to practise, The University of Manchester has a duty to ensure that students are fit to practise.

To protect present or future patients, clients or service users - and to comply with the requirements of professional/regulatory bodies - we have established a procedure for dealing with student-related fitness to practise issues.

A pharmacy student's fitness to practise is called into question when their behaviour or health raises a serious or persistent cause for concern about their ability or suitability to continue on the MPharm course.

This includes, but is not limited to, the possibility that they could put patients, the public, other students, staff or themselves at risk, and the need to maintain the public's trust in the pharmacy profession.

Issues surrounding professional behaviour and fitness to practise are monitored and investigated initially. We consider cases that are brought to us and follow initial investigations via appropriate staff.

For information specific to the University, please read:

• Guidance and procedure for applicants to the Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) Programme (Word, 73KB)
• Medical Fitness Assessment Procedure (Word, 59KB).

Applicants and students should note that we treat all information disclosed by students in the strictest of confidence. Information about a student's fitness to practise will ONLY be disclosed to the GPhC when the Faculty's Committee on Fitness to Practise has imposed sanctions upon the student.

When sanctions have been imposed, the student must also disclose them to the GPhC if they apply to join the register of pharmacists. Sanctions include

• conditions or undertakings
• suspension from the course
• expulsion from the course.

To ensure students are of good character as part of the GPhC's fitness to practise requirements, you must complete a self-declaration form at interview and then annually and submit to a criminal records check during the first year of the MPharm course.

You must declare any convictions, cautions or reprimands received at any time before or during your studies, either in this country or in other countries.

The criminal records check is an Enhanced Level search by the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). We will assist you in the completion of these forms.

To assess good character, the GPhC Good Character Framework is used.

International applicants will need to submit an overseas police check, and this will be included as a formal offer condition.

Applications for deferred entry are considered equally to other applications up to the point of confirmation. Requests for deferred entry are granted on the discretion of admissions staff and are normally granted for one year only. Some English Language test results, such as IELTS or TOEFL, are only valid for two years from the test date.

If you applied in the previous year and your application was not successful you may apply again. Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry.  In your new application you should demonstrate how your application has improved.  We may draw upon all information from your previous applications or any previous registrations at the University as a student when assessing your suitability for your chosen course.If you are applying for a place for the same year of entry through UCAS Extra, you should provide additional evidence of your suitability for the course. If you are applying through clearing you are required to meet the clearing requirements. In both UCAS Extra and clearing the places will be subject to availability.

Visas for the pharmacy foundation training year

All international/EU and EEA students from who are graduating with an MPharm from a British university must apply for a visa to work in the UK, ie to undertake their foundation training.

Further information about the Graduate Immigration Route visa can be found here .

The foundation year is a one-year full-time course following a modular structure. All units on the course are compulsory.

Course units in Chemistry and Biology - both of which feature Mathematics - and a specific unit on Orientation to Pharmacy provides appropriate learning opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds.

The rest of the MPharm degree follows the same structure as the four-year course .

You will study the following units during the foundation year:

• Cells and Foundation Biology
• Biochemistry
• Physiology
• Health and Disease
• 1A Principles of Chemistry
• 1B Principles of Chemistry
• 2A Pharmaceutical Chemistry
• 2B Inorganic and Organic Chemistry
• Orientation to Pharmacy

Year 2 will also include students in some taught sessions who are undertaking the BSc in Clinical Pharmacy, which is a joint course between the Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, and China Pharmaceutical University.

Year 3 will also include students in some taught sessions who are undertaking the BSc in Clinical Pharmacy, which is a joint course between the Division of Pharmacy and Optometry, and China Pharmaceutical University.

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Support Office