The program equips students with the scientific, practical, and commercial knowledge needed to navigate the full drug discovery and development process from concept to patient.
June 11, 2026: The University of Leeds is now accepting applications for its 12-month full-time MSc in Drug Discovery and Development, a multidisciplinary programme designed to prepare students for careers within the pharmaceutical and life sciences industries. Starting in September, the course provides a comprehensive understanding of how new medicines are discovered, developed, and brought to market, combining scientific knowledge with commercial and regulatory insight.
This innovative MSc immerses students in the complete journey of drug development, from early-stage target identification and compound design through to clinical testing, approval processes and commercialisation. The programme integrates key disciplines including chemistry, pharmacology, biomedical sciences and pharmaceutical business, offering a holistic perspective on the modern drug development pipeline.
Students benefit from teaching delivered by academic experts and industry professionals, ensuring strong alignment with current practices in pharmaceutical research and development. The course also places significant emphasis on practical learning, with a substantial research project enabling students to apply their knowledge in real laboratory or industry-focused settings.
Entry Requirements: First class or grade equivalent undergraduate degree in a relevant subject from a recognised Indian university.
Start Date:September 2026
Application Deadline: 31st July 2026
Duration: 12 months (full-time)
English Language Requirements: Students will need Standard XII English at 70% or 75% depending on the state board, or IELTS 6.5 overall, with no less than 6.0 in any component.
Scholarship Details: £6,000 International Masters Regional Scholarships for all Indian students
Industry Exposure under UoL’s Global Industry Programme: While studying at Leeds, students have a unique opportunity to gain real-world industry consultancy experience through a two-week virtual Global Industry Programme. This not only helps them build valuable industry connections but also develops practical and professional skills that help them stand out in the competitive graduate job market.
Career Opportunities: This course prepares graduates to be workplace-ready, equipping them with the skills needed for roles in pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, contract research organisations, government regulatory bodies, and related sectors, while also providing a strong foundation for further research degrees. Students receive dedicated support from the employability and opportunity team, along with a Master’s career development programme that offers guidance on career planning, interview preparation, and PhD applications.
How to Apply:Please visit https://www.leeds.ac.uk/masters-applying/doc/apply-masters-courses
For more information:
https://courses.leeds.ac.uk/j478/drug-discovery-and-development-msc