- The University of Sheffield is launching a new Pharmacy degree, with students set to begin their studies in September 2025
- The four-year Master of Pharmacy undergraduate degree programme will provide highly skilled and trained pharmacists to support the local and national NHS workforce at a time of unprecedented demand
- Through its Masters of Pharmacy with a Preparatory Year programme, the University of Sheffield's Department for Life-Long Learning will also offer an opportunity for qualified Pharmacy Technicians to gain a Pharmacy degree
- Almost 200 years since its Medical School was founded, the University of Sheffield continues to be a leading force in medical education and research excellence, shaping the future of healthcare for generations to come
A new Pharmacy degree at the University of Sheffield will help to address local and national healthcare needs.
The launch of the new four-year Master of Pharmacy degree programme is designed to equip students with the knowledge and training to become highly skilled, patient-focused pharmacists to support the NHS workforce at a time of unprecedented demand.
The course is built on a strong foundation of scientific understanding, combined with a firm commitment to patient care. Students will gain hands-on experience through placements in community, hospital, and primary care settings, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world situations.
Professor Susan Matthews, Head of Pharmacy at the University of Sheffield’s School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery, said: “Pharmacists play a vital role in improving patient outcomes. Our course is designed to produce graduates who are not only experts in medicines but also compassionate healthcare professionals who can make a real difference in people’s lives. Sheffield Pharmacy graduates will be of their community and for their community.”
A unique feature of the course at the University of Sheffield is the social accountability placement. This gives students the opportunity to undertake a placement with one of over 130 community partners, in the voluntary sector, to develop and deliver activities that have a positive impact on health and wellbeing, whilst understanding the broader health needs of the community.
Osman Chohan, Chief Pharmacist and Chair of the Yorkshire and Humber Chief Pharmacists Network, said: “Having a School of Pharmacy at the University of Sheffield is a really exciting prospect, not just for Sheffield and South Yorkshire but for neighbouring regions too.
“At a time when the NHS has significant workforce gaps and demand for NHS services is unrelenting, the prospect of a steady stream of highly skilled, highly trained pharmacists to support the local population is really exciting.
“Medicines are the most common intervention we make in the care of patients but medicines are not without their risks. Pharmacists are a critical part of ensuring patients get the best outcomes from their medicines whilst minimising risk and side effects.”
He added: “This is great news for the Pharmacy profession, whether that be in our hospitals, in our high street pharmacies or in newer roles such as clinics in GP practices. Pharmacists add huge value and expertise in management of illness and disease.
“I am really looking forward to working with the University of Sheffield to help shape the course to meet the needs of our patients now and in the future.”
Through its Masters of Pharmacy with a Preparatory Year programme, the University of Sheffield's Department for Life-Long Learning will also offer an opportunity for qualified Pharmacy Technicians to gain a Pharmacy degree.
The University of Sheffield has a rich and distinguished history in medical education and research since its foundation of the Medical School in 1828. The institution has played a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of healthcare. From pioneering discoveries including the first documented use of penicillin and the UK’s first clinical trial of insulin, to nurturing generations of medical professionals, Sheffield has consistently been at the forefront of medical advancement and addressing the local and national healthcare needs.
Professor Ashley Blom, Vice President and Head of the Faculty of Health, said: “Opening Pharmacy at the University of Sheffield reinforces our commitment to deliver life-enhancing education and lead in improving the health and wellbeing of the people of South Yorkshire. With a legacy of innovation and a focus on patient care, Sheffield continues to be a leading force in medical education and research, shaping the future of healthcare for generations to come.”
The University of Sheffield is working towards accreditation of this programme with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC). The programme will be provisionally accredited until the accreditation process is complete. For more information please visit The General Pharmaceutical Council.
Further information or apply to the University of Sheffield Pharmacy degree.
