You are here
Pharmaceutical science training
Science and technology plays a vital role in modern patient care and 54 healthcare science specialisms contribute to eighty percent of patient diagnoses across the NHS. Healthcare scientists work regularly with patients and make up five percent of the total NHS staff.
Training programmes are available from apprenticeships to masters programmes.
Scientist Training Programme
The Scientist Training Programme (STP) is a three year training programme that includes work-based and academic learning. Whilst on the programme you will also complete a part-time master's degree at the university offering your chosen specialism.
New entrants and existing pharmacy technical services workforce may also access the Clinical Pharmaceutical Science route via the following programme:
NHS Scientist Training Programme (for more information see the National School of Healthcare Science)
Clinical pharmaceutical science involves four disciplines; quality assurance and quality control, aseptic preparation of medicines, production and the manufacture and supply of radioactive substances used in the diagnosis and treatment of patients.
Students study at The University of Manchester for a programme:
- MSc Clinical Pharmaceutical Science via the Scientist Training Programme (STP)
For existing pharmacy technical services workforce, senior staff may access the following programme:
- MSc Pharmaceutical Technology and Quality Assurance (Postgraduate Diploma/MSc)
Science Apprenticeships
In Pharmacy Technical Services, the following options may be considered. Advice from your local Apprenticeship Coordinator will be available or see Apprenticeships pages for a wide range of offers:
Laboratories and Processing
The Laboratory pathways from Laboratory Technician to Laboratory Scientist, may be appropriate depending on role.
The Healthcare Science Assistant apprenticeship is available at Level 2, apprentices must complete the BTEC Level 2 Diploma in Healthcare Science qualification. Further progression routes to Level 6 are available.
Apprentices must also have their skills and behaviours assessed in the workplace, through an on-going competence evaluation.
Science Manufacturing
- Science Manufacturing Process Operative - This is a level 2 apprenticeship where apprentices will undertake basic operations and monitoring of plant and equipment or they will carry out procedures to process/manufacture, assemble component parts or finished products.
- Science Manufacturing Technician - This is a level 3 apprenticeship where apprentices will operate the systems and equipment involved in the production of products.
See local colleges/training providers for provision.