This course is designed for scientists who wish to develop their skills in Drug Analysis and Toxicology.

The involvement of industry in the design of the course and an industry-based project (limited number and subject to availability), maximise employment prospects. Students on the MSc Instrumental Analytical Science Drug Analysis and Toxicology course will benefit from the use of modern analytical equipment, study visits, guest lecturers and workshops. Research activities within the University underpin the coursework.

Semester 1

• Professional Skills & Techniques
• Separation, Electroanalysis and Microscopy
• Spectroscopy
• Laboratory Work

Semester 2

• Drug Analysis and Toxicology
• Contemporary Techniques/Analytical Problem Solving
• Project Preparation

Semester 3

• MSc Research Project

Award: MSc Instrumental Analytical Sciences Drug Analysis and Toxicology

The course is assessed by a number of different module specific methods, ranging from exams, coursework, presentation, Thesis compilation and oral defence.

This course is ideal for students who possess an Hons degree in a science subject. Chemical sciences subjects at second year undergraduate university level are highly desirable. Other qualifications and experience will be considered with entry being subject to the University's judgement that the person has reasonable expectation of being able to fulfil the requirements of the award.

All international students for whom English is not their first language must provide evidence of linguistic ability, by gaining either IELTS 6.5 or its equivalent in TOEFL prior to receiving an unconditional offer of a place on the course.

English Language Requirements

The MSc was designed in liaison with Industry and as such there is a strong emphasis on the applied analytical techniques used within the analytical sector. 

A limited number of our MSc research projects are undertaken externally. 

Postgraduate Tuition Fee Loan

Applicants (Scottish domiciled and EU) to this course may be eligible for a Postgraduate Tuition Fee Loan (PTFL). Full-time students can apply for a PTFL up to £3400. Part-time students can apply for up to £1700. The tuition fee loan is only available to part-time students who are undertaking at least 50% of a full-time course, and therefore, complete their qualification in 2 years.

Students can apply now by downloading an application form from the SAAS web site.

All course fees are reviewed annually and subject to change. Published fees apply to the course's mode of delivery.

All students can apply online by visiting Apply Online at www.rgu.ac.uk/applyonline

If you have any queries, please contact our Admissions Office: 

• Email PGOffice@rgu.ac.uk
• Call +44 (0) 1224 262132

If you are an International Student and would like further information and application advice:

• Complete our International Enquiries form
• Call 0044 1224 262726
• Email international@rgu.ac.uk

Industrial demand for graduates from the course is consistently high. The MSc project also allows you to make invaluable links with our industrial partners. You may also want to consider a research post or other training opportunities in universities. Previous posts taken up by graduates include: analytical chemist; bioanalyst; development chemist; production chemist; environmental officer; research scientist; scientific officer; applications chemist; and drug development analyst.

Dr Graeme Kay MRSC, MAPS, SRPharmS: Programme Leader

Dr Kay joined the University in January 2005 originally as a research fellow in medicinal chemistry. Previous to that he was a development chemist at GlaxoSmithKline, Montrose. Prior to working in industry he was employed at Edinburgh Napier University as a researcher in organo-medicinal chemistry. At Edinburgh Napier, he undertook research in to the design of tissue-specific anti-inflammatory and anticancer agents. He was educated at Edinburgh Napier University where he gained a BSc (Hons) degree in Applied Chemistry and a PhD in Anti-Cancer Medicinal Chemistry. His current research interests are the design and synthesis of novel prodrugs for the treatment of nephropathic cystinosis and the design and synthesis of amino-substituted anthraquinones as potential anti-cancer agents.

Graeme Kay's staff profile