This article was written by Agapé Thamar @thecoolpharma on Instagram - check her page out!
Choosing the right pharmacy school in the UK is a significant decision that has the power to shape your future, with 30+ schools to choose from, this can often be a very unnerving experience. To make this choice easier, let’s explore the essential elements you might want to consider: Location, Teaching, Social Environment, and the difference between Campus and City Universities. Let's dive in!
How I wrote this article:
Articles:
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https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/league-tables/rankings/pharmacology-and-pharmacy
- https://www.thepharmacistblog.com/matter-pharmacy-school-go/
+ Personal experience
1. Location: Where Will Your Journey Begin?
Location is more than just a dot on the map. It’s where you’ll be living, studying, and creating memories for the next few years. Here’s what to consider:
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City Life vs. Small Town Living: Do you thrive in the hustle and bustle of a big city with vibrant nightlife, diverse cultures, and numerous opportunities for internships and part-time jobs, like in London, Manchester, and Birmingham, or do you prefer the quiet, close-knit feel and lower living costs of smaller towns like Bath or Keele?
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Proximity to Home: How far away from home do you want to be? Being closer to home means easier access to family and friends, but being farther away can offer a greater sense of independence and adventure
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Climate Considerations: The UK has a diverse climate, sun enthusiasts might prefer southern universities like Brighton or Portsmouth, while those who enjoy cooler, rainier weather might lean towards northern cities like Newcastle or Sunderland
2. Teaching: Who Will Be Guiding Your Future?
Quality teaching is paramount in pharmacy school. The important thing to note is that each of the schools will equip you with the tools you need in order to graduate with an MPharm degree, however, it is noteworthy to consider that some teaching and emphasis on practical work might vary. If you are someone who sees yourself going into academia or further studies in pharmacodynamics or biomedicines, then perhaps finding schools who are noteworthy for their scientific fields and lectures could be something you do. Here's what to look for:
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Reputation and Ranking: Check out university rankings specifically for pharmacy programs. Schools like UCL School of Pharmacy, Nottingham University School of Pharmacy, and the University of Manchester School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences consistently rank high for their pharmacy courses.
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Faculty Expertise: Engaging with knowledgeable and passionate professors who are leaders in their fields and have experience in both research and clinical practice can significantly enhance your learning experience, for instance, the Department of Pharmacy at King's College London and the School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences at Liverpool John Moores boast highly experienced faculties
3. Social Environment: Where Will You Find Your Tribe?
Your social environment will be a crucial part of your university life. Here’s what to consider:
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Student Societies and Clubs: Look for active pharmacy societies, as well as other clubs that align with your interests, whether it’s sports, arts, or volunteering. These groups are fantastic for making friends and networking
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Diversity and Inclusivity: A diverse student body enriches your educational experience, and universities like the University of Bradford and De Montfort University, which celebrate different cultures and backgrounds, provide a welcoming and dynamic environment
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Support Services: Check if the university offers robust student support services, including mental health resources, academic advising, and career counselling. These services are vital for your overall well-being and success. For example, the University of Hertfordshire and the University of East Anglia have comprehensive support systems in place
4. Campus vs. City University: What’s Your Ideal Setting?
The setting of your university can significantly impact your day-to-day life as well as the cost of being a student. Let’s break down the differences:
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Campus Universities: These universities, like University of Bath and Keele University, offer a self-contained, close-knit community and a structured environment, but can feel isolated with fewer off-campus social opportunities
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City Universities: Universities such as King's College London and the University of Manchester, offer immersion in urban life with greater independence, variety, and numerous social opportunities, but can be overwhelming and more expensive due to the bustling environment and higher living costs.
Making Your Decision
Now that you’ve considered these elements, it’s time to weigh them against your personal preferences and goals. Visit campuses if you can, talk to current students at the various universities you are considering, and think about where you see yourself thriving both academically and socially. Remember, the best pharmacy school for you is one that aligns with your aspirations, future and lifestyle.
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