The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PgD Pharmaceutical Sciences) is a prestigious advanced qualification designed for healthcare professionals, pharmacists, and scientists seeking to elevate their expertise and advance their careers. This Level 7 programme provides learners with comprehensive knowledge of pharmaceutical sciences, combining theoretical understanding with practical applications to support innovative drug development, patient care, and research excellence.
This qualification is ideal for professionals aiming to specialise in pharmaceutical research, drug formulation, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance. Learners will explore advanced pharmacology, drug design, formulation techniques, quality control, and regulatory frameworks, equipping them with the skills necessary to contribute effectively to the pharmaceutical industry and healthcare sector.
Centres delivering this Level 7 programme are required to maintain the highest standards of training. This includes employing competent and qualified staff, providing access to up-to-date learning materials, laboratories, and digital resources, and ensuring all necessary facilities are available to support learner success. By adhering to these rigorous standards, centres create an environment where learners can achieve their full potential and gain a qualification recognised for excellence in pharmaceutical sciences.
Completing this programme enables learners to enhance their professional credibility, take on senior or specialised roles, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD). It also empowers learners to apply advanced scientific knowledge to real-world challenges in drug development, clinical research, and pharmaceutical practice, fostering innovation and leadership within the industry.
Course Contents of QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PgD Pharmaceutical Sciences):
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PgD Pharmaceutical Sciences), offers 120 Credits, requiring a Total Qualification Time (TQT) of 1200 hours, including 600 Guided Learning Hours (GLH).
| Unit Ref# | Unit Title | Credits | GLH | TQT |
| QC30098- 1 | Advanced Pharmacology and Therapeutics | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30098-2 | Drug Formulation and Delivery Systems | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30098-3 | Pharmaceutical Analysis and Quality Control | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30098-4 | Regulatory Affairs and Pharmaceutical Policy | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30098-5 | Research Methodologies and Evidence-Based Practice | 20 | 100 | 200 |
| QC30098-6 | Innovation, Leadership, and Industrial Pharmacy | 20 | 100 | 200 |
Entry Requirements for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PgD Pharmaceutical Sciences):
Minimum Age:
- Learners must be 21 years or older at the start of the course.
Educational Background:
- Learners should hold a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Pharmacology, or a related healthcare or life sciences qualification recognised internationally.
Professional Experience:
- It is recommended that learners have at least 2 years of professional experience in pharmaceutical practice, research, or a healthcare setting to contextualise advanced concepts effectively.
Language Proficiency:
- Learners must demonstrate proficiency in English, both written and verbal, to understand course materials, engage in discussions, and complete assessments successfully.
Commitment to CPD:
Learners should show a strong commitment to ongoing learning, professional growth, and CPD to excel in advanced pharmaceutical practice.
Access to Required Resources:
- Learners are expected to have access to a computer, internet, scientific journals, research databases, and relevant laboratory resources to support independent study and research activities.
Meeting these entry requirements ensures learners are equipped to achieve success in this advanced Level 7 programme, develop specialised skills in pharmaceutical sciences, and enhance their career prospects in research, industry, or clinical settings.
Learning Outcomes for the QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences (PgD Pharmaceutical Sciences):
Advanced Pharmacology and Therapeutics
- Demonstrate advanced knowledge of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics
- Analyse complex drug mechanisms and therapeutic effects
- Apply pharmacological principles to optimise patient therapy and drug development
- Critically evaluate emerging therapeutic interventions
- Assess the impact of patient-specific factors on drug efficacy and safety
Drug Formulation and Delivery Systems
- Design and develop advanced drug formulations for various delivery systems
- Evaluate bioavailability and stability of pharmaceutical products
- Apply modern techniques for controlled and targeted drug delivery
- Solve formulation challenges using scientific and regulatory approaches
- Demonstrate practical skills in pharmaceutical product development
Pharmaceutical Analysis and Quality Control
- Perform and interpret advanced analytical techniques for drug testing
- Evaluate quality assurance and quality control processes in pharmaceutical production
- Ensure compliance with international standards and regulatory requirements
- Identify and resolve issues related to product quality and safety
- Apply laboratory and research data to support pharmaceutical decision-making
Regulatory Affairs and Pharmaceutical Policy
- Explain global regulatory frameworks and pharmaceutical legislation
- Apply regulatory requirements to drug development, manufacturing, and distribution
- Analyse policies affecting pharmaceutical practice and industry operations
- Evaluate compliance strategies to meet legal and ethical standards
- Develop regulatory submissions and documentation for pharmaceutical products
Research Methodologies and Evidence-Based Practice
- Design and conduct research projects in pharmaceutical sciences
- Critically appraise scientific literature and evidence
- Apply statistical and analytical methods to research data
- Integrate research findings into evidence-based pharmaceutical practice
- Demonstrate independent, professional, and ethical research conduct
Innovation, Leadership, and Industrial Pharmacy
- Demonstrate leadership and management skills in pharmaceutical settings
- Apply innovation strategies to develop new products and services
- Implement quality improvement initiatives in industrial pharmacy
- Evaluate operational and organisational strategies to enhance efficiency
- Lead projects that contribute to scientific advancement and patient outcomes
The QualCert Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences is specifically designed for professionals who want to advance their expertise, enhance their career prospects, and make significant contributions to the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors. The programme provides learners with advanced knowledge, practical skills, and the ability to implement evidence-based practices in pharmaceutical sciences.
Qualified Pharmacists and Healthcare Professionals
This course is ideal for practising pharmacists and healthcare professionals who want to specialise in advanced pharmaceutical sciences, including drug development, therapeutics, and clinical applications.
- Specialise in advanced drug development and formulation
- Apply therapeutics in clinical and healthcare settings
- Expand knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences for professional growth
Professionals in Drug Development and Quality Control
Learners involved in formulation, manufacturing, and quality assurance will benefit from enhanced knowledge of pharmaceutical analysis, regulatory compliance, and quality management systems.
- Gain expertise in pharmaceutical analysis and quality control
- Understand and implement regulatory compliance measures
- Improve practices in drug manufacturing and formulation
Aspiring Specialists in Regulatory Affairs and Policy
The programme is suited for individuals aiming to understand international pharmaceutical regulations, contribute to policy development, and ensure compliance in clinical and industrial settings.
- Learn global pharmaceutical regulations and standards
- Contribute to policy development in clinical and industrial settings
- Ensure compliance with legal and ethical requirements
Researchers and Scientists
This course supports those engaged in pharmaceutical research by providing skills in research methodologies, evidence-based practice, and the application of scientific data to real-world problems.
- Develop advanced research and analytical skills
- Apply evidence-based practice in pharmaceutical research
- Translate scientific data into practical solutions
Professionals Committed to Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
The programme is designed for learners who are committed to lifelong learning and professional growth, helping them stay current with advances in pharmaceutical sciences.
- Enhance knowledge and skills through CPD
- Stay updated with emerging trends and innovations
- Strengthen professional credentials and career prospects
Future Leaders and Innovators
Individuals aspiring to take on leadership or management roles within pharmaceutical organisations will gain skills in project management, innovation, and strategic decision-making, preparing them to lead initiatives that improve patient care and advance the industry.
- Develop leadership and management skills
- Implement innovative strategies in pharmaceutical practice
- Lead projects that improve patient care and drive industry advancements
To ensure the successful delivery of the Level 7 Postgraduate Diploma in Pharmaceutical Sciences, centres must meet specific standards. These requirements guarantee learners have access to qualified staff, up-to-date resources, and a supportive learning environment, promoting high-quality training and learner success.
Qualified and Competent Staff
- Employ teaching staff with relevant expertise in pharmaceutical sciences and research
- Ensure all trainers hold appropriate academic and professional qualifications
- Provide continuous professional development for staff to maintain high teaching standards
Access to Learning Resources
- Provide learners with up-to-date textbooks, journals, and digital learning materials
- Ensure access to laboratory facilities, research databases, and analytical tools
- Supply case studies, clinical examples, and practical exercises to support applied learning
Learning Environment
- Maintain a safe, accessible, and effective learning environment, both in-person and online
- Ensure classrooms, labs, and virtual platforms meet the required educational standards
- Support collaborative learning and interactive sessions for enhanced learner engagement
Assessment and Monitoring
- Implement robust assessment strategies to evaluate learner progress and performance
- Provide constructive feedback and guidance to help learners achieve their learning outcomes
- Ensure assessments are fair, valid, and aligned with Level 7 standards
Governance and Compliance
- Comply with all regulatory, ethical, and quality assurance standards
- Monitor adherence to international educational and pharmaceutical guidelines
- Maintain accurate records of learner performance and programme delivery
Support for Learners
- Offer mentoring, guidance, and academic support throughout the course
- Provide access to resources and tools to encourage independent study and research
- Promote a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth