When we visit the doctor for a common cold or flu, we might wonder why painkillers like Panadol have two names: Acetaminophen and Paracetamol. Apart from studying medicine, delving into the field of pharmacy allows us to gain a deeper understanding of medicinal knowledge, and even become a practicing pharmacist. So, what are the prospects of studying pharmacy in the UK? Can UK pharmacy courses be recognized for professional qualifications in Hong Kong? Which universities rank the highest in pharmacy in the UK? How much does it generally cost to study pharmacy in the UK? Cyclopes answers all these questions for students below.
![Pharmacist checking medicines at drugstore](https://cloudimg.cyclopeseducation.com/pictures/blog/66/pharmacist-checking-medicines-drugstore.jpg )
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The UK is one of the top regions in the world for pharmacy education and research. Studying pharmacy in the UK offers numerous advantages, including access to high-quality education and greater job opportunities upon graduation.
Before choosing a major or planning a career, students must first distinguish between Pharmacology and Pharmacy as two separate disciplines. The career path for Pharmacology typically involves new drug development in pharmaceutical companies or labs, while Pharmacy studies how to administer medications. Pharmacists also interact with patients and are responsible for dispensing medications. This article focuses on Pharmacy.
To become a qualified practicing pharmacist in the UK, one needs to complete the following requirements in a minimum of five years:
1. Students first need to complete at least a four-year Master's degree in Pharmacy (M.Pharm).
2. After obtaining their M.Pharm degree, students must undergo a one-year pre-registration training. During this period, students must hold a paid position in a community or hospital pharmacy and be assessed based on their performance.
3. Students must pass the GPhC (General Pharmaceutical Council) registration exam.
4. Students must meet the competence requirements for a registered pharmacist.
Can UK Pharmacy Graduates Practice in Hong Kong?
![Asian woman consulting pharmacist’s advice on medicine at drugstore](https://cloudimg.cyclopeseducation.com/pictures/blog/66/asian-woman-holding-vitamin-package-listening-pharmacist-explaining-ascorbic-acid-dosage-instruction-drugstore-customer-buying-food-supplement-talking-with-pharmacy-assistant-aisle.jpg )
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According to the latest Subject League Table 2024 by the authoritative UK university ranking body, Complete University Guide, the top ten pharmacy university rankings in the UK are as follows: Each university's pharmacy program has different admission score requirements. It is recommended that students choose their target universities based on their individual academic achievements.
- University of Cambridge
- Queen's University Belfast
- University of Strathclyde
- Cardiff University
- Ulster University
- University of Bath
- University of Nottingham
- University of Leeds
- University College London
- University of Lincoln
![Hand with different medicines from a brown bottle](https://cloudimg.cyclopeseducation.com/pictures/blog/66/woman-s-hand-pours-medicine-pills-out-bottle.jpg )
Source: Freepik