medway school of pharmacyProspectus for Taught Programmes

Degree: Master of Pharmacy (MPham) 2

Programme: Master of Pharmacy (MPham) 4

Modules: Master of Pharmacy (MPham) 6

Undergraduate student profiles 9

Research 11

Postgraduate: Postgraduate Certificate and 12 Diploma in General Pharmacy Practice

Postgraduate: Postgraduate Certificate in 14 Independent/Supplementary Prescribing

Postgraduate: MSc in Medicines Management 16

Postgraduate: Short course provision 18

MSc Medicines Management student profile 23

Out and about 24

Activities 27

Accommodation 29

Campus Map 30

Contents

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The Medway School of Pharmacy is a unique collaboration between the University of Greenwich and the University of Kent. Since opening in 2004 we have become recognised as an established school of pharmacy, by the regulator, the General Pharmaceutical Council. We are delighted to have achieved our initial objective and have our Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) graduates now working as pharmacists in various careers both locally and nationally. The School is located at the heart of the multi-university campus development at Chatham Maritime in Medway, Kent. This splendid Edwardian redbrick campus – dating from 1903 – has benefi ted from over £20 million capital investment since 1996. Extensive new laboratories and research facilities have opened and the campus has developed into a major higher education centre.

The Medway School of Pharmacy mission is “to produce, through innovative teaching and research delivered in a supportive and caring environment, high-quality professional graduates committed to lifelong learning”. Student care and support is therefore an essential part of our School and we provide personal tutors to maintain regular contact and offer confi dential help with either academic or personal problems. We are therefore extremely pleased and proud that our students voted the School the best institution in the country for overall programme satisfaction (2009), and we continue to score very highly in the National Student Survey.

We have designed an innovative patient-focused MPharm programme and believe that the future of pharmacy lies in meeting patients’ needs through working in partnership with patients, other health-care professionals, the NHS and industry. Pharmacists are the only health-care professionals with a unique knowledge of medicines from manufacture to their use in patients, and pharmacy offers a wide range of career options. Our MPharm programme already provides a signifi cant amount of work placements to enhance the clinical learning, competencies and employability skills of our graduates.

The changing role for pharmacists and other healthcare professionals continues to allow the School to also develop and refresh a portfolio of postgraduate courses, including a multidisciplinary Postgraduate Certifi cate in Independent and Supplementary Prescribing and a Master’s programme in Medicines Management. As a dynamic school we have a commitment to the provision of lifelong learning and Continuing Professional Development (CPD) as exemplifi ed by our Skills for MURs course, which has now attracted many thousands of practising pharmacists.

Research is critical to the success of the School and takes place alongside teaching under the guidance of our Director of Research. The School has already made a signifi cant investment in facilities and equipment and will make further fi nancial commitments to research over the coming years. The School continues to evolve a strong collaborative and interdisciplinary approach to research and aims to enhance its internationally recognised reputation in identifi ed research areas.

The School has an experienced and dedicated team of staff comprising academic scientists, pharmacists and teacher practitioners seconded from the NHS, together with administrative and technical personnel.

Please browse through this prospectus and visit our website at www.msp.ac.uk for further information or to contact us. We hope that you will take the opportunity to participate in one of our innovative taught or research programmes.

Professor Iain CummingBSc Hons, PhD, MRPharmS

Welcome from Professor Iain CummingHead of medway school of pharmacy

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Degree Master of Pharmacy (MPharm)

The MPharm programme is a four-year undergraduate Master’s degree. The modules divide into three interlinked themes in the first three years:

■ Practitioner and Patient: one module per year

■ Medicines Design and Manufacture: one module per year

■ The Patient, Disease and Drug Action: two modules in each of the first two years, and another in the third year

A research methods module at Stage 3 links to a sustained research project which constitutes 40 credits of the final year of the programme. The other modules in the final year are Practitioner and Patient 4, Applied Therapeutics and one Advanced Science Elective.

TeachingEach module includes lectures, seminars, laboratory work, small group work, practice-based activities and assignments. There are also several practice placements throughout the programme, so you will benefit from both academic and practice-related learning environments.

PlacementsThe practice placements are an integral part of the MPharm programme. Placements are undertaken in both community and hospital pharmacy settings. Students are required to complete one day placements in community and hospital in Year 1. This is followed by a week in both settings in Year 2 and two weeks in both settings in Year 3.

AssessmentAssessment includes written examinations at the end of each year, which count for 50 per cent or more of the final mark for most modules. All modules also have continuous assessment that contributes the remainder of the overall module mark. Continuous assessments include practical dispensing examinations, objective structured clinical examinations, presentations (individual and group), written reports (including submission

of laboratory notebooks), case studies, essays and multiple choice questions. Final honours classification is calculated from: 10 per cent of Stage 2 overall grade, 40 per cent of Stage 3 overall grade and 50 per cent of Stage 4 overall grade.

CareersStudents completing the MPharm are eligible to register as pharmacists in Great Britain, subject to successfully completing a pre-registration year and passing a registration examination. Registered pharmacists are able to pursue careers in hospital, community, primary care and industrial practice, general management and administration, as well as research opportunities in industry, academia or government laboratories. There are currently over 40,000 pharmacists registered in Great Britain, but there is an ongoing shortage of pharmacists to fill recurring vacancies due to the expanding clinical role of the pharmacist, which includes independent prescribing.

FactsAwardMPharm

UCAS codesMPharm course code is B230

Please note the institution code for Medway School of Pharmacy is M62 (University of Kent and University of Greenwich have different institution codes).

LocationAnson Building, Universities at Medway Campus, Chatham Maritime, Kent

LengthFour years full-time

Entry criteriaAll students are required to demonstrate basic literacy and numeracy skills as evidenced by GCSE grade B or above in English language and mathematics.

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In addition, we accept the following qualifications:

■ A2 Levels 320 points – ABB grades at A2 level, including chemistry and one other pure-science-based subject.

■ BTEC National Diploma in Applied Science Distinction/Distinction/Distinction.

■ International Baccalaureate 32 points including 5 in chemistry and another pure science based subject.

■ Irish Leaving Certificate AA at Higher Level in chemistry and another pure-science-based subject and BBB at Higher Level in three additional subjects. In addition we require grade B in maths and English Language at Ordinary Level.

■ Scottish Highers AB at Advanced Higher level to include chemistry and one other pure-science-based subject and BB at Higher Level in two additional subjects; and relevant qualifications in English language and maths.

■ Overseas applicants Overseas applicants will be assessed on an individual basis based on the NARIC equivalent and must have an appropriate English language qualification (IELTS 7.0 in each category), mathematics qualification and an equivalent science based background.

English qualifications accepted for overseas applicants are:

– IELTS with a score of 7.0 in each category – IGCSE English at grade B– Cambridge English Advanced Certificate at grade B– TOEFL (Internet-based score of 87 or a paper based score of 575).

Degree/graduate-level entryApplicants possessing a relevant first degree must have a minimum of a 2.2 classification to be considered. The applicant, if successful, will be accepted into year 1 of the MPharm programme.

FeaturesOur innovative new teaching facilities include a clinical skills laboratory, a network of teacher practitioners (seconded at least two days per week), leading-edge research academics, a programme which integrates three interlinked themes and an extensive placement programme.

Professional recognitionThe School is recognised as an established school of pharmacy by the regulator, the General Pharmaceutical Council.

Police and health checksAny offer will be subject to satisfactory Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) and relevant health checks.

Disability and diversityThe School is committed to achieving equality of opportunity for all applicants, students and staff. Consequently the School complies with all relevant legislation. For example, a student assessed as dyslexic is allowed additional time to complete formal written examination papers.

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Stage 1: Medicinal The Patient, Disease Practitioner Products (MP) and Drug Action (PDDA) and Patient (PP)

MDM1: (30 credits) PDDA1: (30 credits) PDDA2: (30 credits) PP1: (30 credits)

Organic chemistry Nervous system Cell biology and Professional standardsPhysical chemistry Endocrine system biochemistry in practicePharmaceutics Renal system Immunology Prescribing, supply and Cardiovascular system Microbiology administration of Gastrointestinal system medicines Respiratory system Communicating with Introduction to patients, carers and pharmacology: professionals principles of drug action Clinical governance

Stage 2: Medicinal The Patient, Disease Practitioner Products (MP) and Drug Action (PDDA) and Patient (PP)

MDM1: (30 credits) PDDA1: (30 credits) PDDA2: (30 credits) PP1: (30 credits)

Organic chemistry Nervous system Cell biology and Professional standardsPhysical chemistry Endocrine system biochemistry in practicePharmaceutics Renal system Immunology Prescribing, supply and Cardiovascular system Microbiology administration of Gastrointestinal system medicines Respiratory system Communicating with Introduction to patients, carers and pharmacology: professionals principles of drug action Clinical governance

Stage 3: Medicinal The Patient, Disease Practitioner Products (MP) and Drug Action (PDDA) and Patient (PP)

MDM1: (30 credits) PDDA1: (30 credits) PDDA2: (30 credits) PP1: (30 credits)

Organic chemistry Nervous system Cell biology and Professional standardsPhysical chemistry Endocrine system biochemistry in practicePharmaceutics Renal system Immunology Prescribing, supply and Cardiovascular system Microbiology administration of Gastrointestinal system medicines Respiratory system Communicating with Introduction to patients, carers and

Online Programme Master of Pharmacy (MPharm)

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Programme Master of Pharmacy (MPharm)

Stage 1:

Introduction to Physiology and Pharmacology: (30 credits)

Introduction to Biosciences: (30 credits)

Pharmacy Practice 1: (30 credits)

■ Organic chemistry■ Physical chemistry■ Pharmaceutics

■ Nervous system■ Endocrine system■ Renal system■ Cardiovascular system■ Gastrointestinal system■ Respiratory system■ Introduction to

pharmacology: principles of drug action

■ Cell biology and biochemistry

■ Immunology■ Genetics■ Microbiology

■ Professional standards in practice

■ Prescribing, supply and administration of medicines

■ Communicating with patients, carers and professionals

■ Clinical governance

Medicines Designand Manufacture 1: (30 credits)

Stage 2:

Pharmacology and Therapeutics 1: (30 credits)

Pharmacology and Therapeutics 2: (30 credits)

Pharmacy Practice 2: (30 credits)

■ Powder and inhalation technology

■ Solid dosage forms■ Biopharmaceutics,

pharmacokinetics and metabolism

■ Pharmaceutical analysis

■ Excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmission in the Central nervous system

■ Neurological disorders■ Psychiatric conditions

■ Molecular basis of disease; Endocrine renal, hepatic, gastro-intestinal, cardiovascular, respiratory and musculoskeletal Systems

■ A framework for practice

■ Communicating and individualising care

■ Patient assessment and treatment

Medicines Designand Manufacture 2: (30 credits)

Stage 3:

Clinical Pharmacokinetics, Cancer Biology and Infection Control: (30 credits)

Research Methods 1: (30 credits)

Pharmacy Practice 3: (30 credits)

■ Physical pharmaceutics

■ Drug-delivery systems

■ Aseptic dispensing and parenteral formulation

■ Drug discovery and development

■ Clinical pharmacokinetics■ Cancer biology■ Infection control

■ Research design and design selection

■ Managing the research process

■ Ethics and research governance

■ Statistics for research■ Contributing to

knowledge and the professional evidence base

■ Pharmaceutical public health

■ Pharmacovigilance■ Pharmacoepidemiology■ Pharmacoeconomics■ Evidence-based

medicine■ National policies and

guidelines■ Pharmaceutical care

Medicines Designand Manufacture 3: (30 credits)

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Stage 4:

Research Project: (40 credits)

Pharmacy Practice 4: (30 credits)

Applied Therapeutics 1: (30 credits)

■ A choice of one advanced-level science elective

■ Sustained research project with eight weeks dedicated to data collection

■ Advances in pharmacy practice

■ Legislation ■ Ethical issues ■ Professional practice

■ Applied therapeutics

Advanced Science Elective ASC1/2/3/4:(20 credits)

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Stage 1During your first year of full-time study, you will take the following four modules:

Medicines Design and Manufacture 1The aim of the module is to provide students with a detailed knowledge and understanding of certain aspects of pharmaceutical chemistry and pharmaceutics which relate to the synthesis, pharmacological activity and formulation of drugs. This will provide the underpinning knowledge necessary to understand the medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutics covered in the remaining Medicines Design and Manufacture modules 2 and 3. In addition, this module will provide essential background for understanding the mechanism of drug action and the chemical origins of toxicity covered within the Patient, Disease and Drug Action (PDDA) modules.

Introduction to Physiology and PharmacologyThis module aims to provide students with a detailed knowledge and understanding of human anatomy and physiology of the major body systems. In addition, selected examples of pathophysiology will introduce the concept of disease and the role of non-pharmacological and pharmacological interventions. The module also provides an introduction to the pharmacological basis of drug action which will include the underpinning knowledge necessary to develop a deep understanding of the pharmacology and therapeutics covered within the remaining ‘Patient, Disease and Drug Action’ modules.

Introduction to BiosciencesThis module will cover aspects of basic biology at the cellular and sub-cellular level in order to provide a knowledge base to underpin the remaining ‘Patient, Disease and Drug Action’ (PDDA) modules to ensure an understanding of drug action at the cellular level. In addition, this module will give an introduction to anti-pathogenic agents, review mechanisms of modulation of the immune response and will provide the underpinning knowledge necessary to understand the molecular basis of the treatment of selected genetic diseases.

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Pharmacy Practice 1

This module aims to provide the foundation for the ‘Practitioner and Patient’ modules which span all four years of the MPharm programme. Students will be given an introduction to dispensing, including the legal and ethical responsibilities of pharmacists, and to the General Pharmaceutical Council. The module also introduces students to the concept of Continuing Professional Development with the formation of a reflective portfolio.

Stage 2During your second year of full-time study, you will take the following four modules:

Medicines Design and Manufacture 2This module aims to provide students with a detailed knowledge and deep understanding of the formulation of solid dosage forms, powder technology and other pharmaceutical factors affecting the manufacture and delivery of oral dosage forms. Students will develop a critical understanding of key aspects of physicochemical and biopharmaceutical properties of drug substances. In addition, the module will cover key concepts and principles of pharmacokinetics and drug metabolism. Instrumental analytical methods used in a pharmaceutical context and their bases in theory will be strengthened by giving students practical experience of using a variety of analytical instruments in exploring selected pharmaceutical applications.

Pharmacology and Therapeutics 1This module aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of physiology and pathophysiology of the central nervous system (CNS). Students will develop a detailed knowledge of neurotransmission in the CNS and a systematic understanding of selected neurological and psychiatric disorders and their management. The scientific, behavioural and social basis of drug dependency is also studied.

ModulesMaster of Pharmacy (MPharm)

Pharmacology and Therapeutics 2This module aims to provide students with an in-depth knowledge and critical understanding of the pathophysiology of selected body systems. These diseases will be studied in depth, including their molecular basis, epidemiology, aetiology, clinical presentation, diagnostic criteria, aims of management, non-pharmacological and pharmacological management (detailed mechanism of action) and factors which infl uence therapeutic options including co-morbidity, drug interactions, effectiveness and toxicity.

Pharmacy Practice 2

The aims of this module are to integrate the ethical, legal, professional and social issues relevant to professional practice and the patient-pharmacist relationship. The module furthers an awareness of patients as individuals in order that the pharmacist may meet health-care needs as appropriate. The module considers the role of the non-medical prescriber in the context of the NHS and the wider health-care team.

Stage 3During your third year of full-time study, you will take the following four modules:

Medicines Design and Manufacture 3This module aims to extend students’ knowledge and understanding of the design, formulation and clinical potential of dosage forms as drug-delivery systems, based upon ideas and techniques, some of which are at the forefront of the discipline. In addition, the module aims to integrate the key aspects of the physicochemical principles of drug action, design and synthesis of active ingredients to the formulation, design and manufacture of medicines. Finally the course enables students to develop a systematic understanding of the processes that are important in the development, manufacture and quality-control of medicines.

Clinical Pharmacokinetics, Cancer Biology and Infection ControlThis module will cover a range of topics associated with the clinical use of drugs and the control of cancer and infectious diseases. Students will be expected to understand: clinical pharmokinetics with particular emphasis on variability in drugs and response as well as therapeutic monitoring of specifi c drugs. The cell biology, genetics and treatment of cancer and the various methods of control of microbial infection and the problems of drug resistance will be explored in detail.

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Students will develop an ability to undertake medication reviews in complex situations by taking account of patient, disease and drug factors, making sound judgements in the absence of complete data. A critical awareness and understanding of seminal research and current issues associated with advances in therapeutics are key learning outcomes. The module will cover therapeutic concepts dealing with some disorders of the endocrine system, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, genito-urinary systems, central nervous system, common infections, gastro-intestinal system, fluid balance, clinical nutrition and the skin.

Plus the choice of one other.

Advanced science electiveFour brief examples are given below:

Advanced NeuroscienceIn this elective module, students explore the impact of recent developments and current advances in neuroscience. They study a series of components relating to neurobiology and neuropharmacology which covers the impact of new research on our understanding of the physiology and pharmacology of the nervous system, diseases of the nervous system and how they might be treated.

Advanced Cell and Molecular BiologyThe aim of this elective module is for students to gain a comprehensive understanding of current problems and new insights into cell and molecular biology in relation to disease and treatment. The module will cover the impact of new research on our understanding of fundamental biological processes in relation to cancer, infection control and allergic inflammation. The emphasis of these lectures will be on how basic science is translated into diagnostics and therapy.

Advanced Therapeutic AgentsThe module aim is to extend the learning from the first three years of the programme and to expose students to the forefront of pharmaceutical sciences and enable them to study a subject of interest in greater depth, in particular, the field of novel therapeutic agents.

Advanced drug delivery technologiesThis elective is intended to provide students with advanced knowledge of certain aspects of drug delivery. Drug delivery systems (DDS) such as liposomes, nanoparticles, polymers and monoclonal antibodies will be used to illustrate and critically discuss the challenges and benefits associated with these carriers in the context of drug, protein, peptide and gene delivery.

Research MethodsThis course will provide a critical awareness of and foundation in research designs and methods which will enable students to assess the need for research, and conduct a literature review and other preparatory work for a research project. It will provide students with the research skills and knowledge to develop a research protocol which includes a clear rationale for selection of research design and research methods. It would form the basis of application for research and other approval and ensure students are suitably prepared for the sustained research project in the final year of their programme of study.

Pharmacy Practice 3:This module aims to provide an insight into key concepts in medicines management. Topics covered include pharmaceutical public health, pharmacoepidemiology, pharmacoeconomics and pharmacovigilance. Students will gain a systematic understanding of evidence-based medicine and its contribution to the development of national policies and guidelines. Finally, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver pharmaceutical care.

Stage 4During your fourth year of full-time study, you will take the following three core modules:

Sustained Research Project This module aims to provide an opportunity to integrate pharmacy-related cognitive abilities and skills, pharmacy-related practical skills and acquired transferable skills developed through the initial three years of the programme into a sustained research project (SRP).

Advances in Pharmacy Practice 4The aim of this module is to prepare the student for the transition into pharmacy practice after graduation. This will require the student to demonstrate problem-solving abilities and rational decision making in a practice framework, including professional accountability and responsibility. The module will cover developments in pharmacy legislation taught in previous years and other legislation and policy relevant to the practising pharmacist. In addition, the student will develop skills in ethical decision making and be able to apply these to practical situations. Through the journal club and associated seminars the student will put transferable skills relating to interpretation and translation of recent research findings into practice.

Applied Therapeutics (Integrated Patient Care)This module will focus on common therapeutic areas which pharmacists encounter in everyday practice.

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Fourth-year MPharm student Patrick Moynagh from Co. Monaghan, Ireland, on his participation in a summer student exchange scheme in Estonia

As clichéd as it sounds, the summer I spent in Estonia was possibly one of the best

experiences of my life. Arriving at Tallinn airport at 5.30am to a glorious morning sunrise was a great way to start my adventure. My home for the next fi ve weeks would be Tartu, the country’s second largest city with a population of around 100,000. My placement experience began in Tartu University Hospital.

I cannot understate the experience that I gained from the fi rst placement, working mainly with one of Estonia’s only clinical pharmacists. I was given the opportunity to see many different aspects of the hospital, and I worked with a pain management team with responsibility for prescribing pain medication for surgical patients.

My second placement was in a new regional hospital in Tallinn. During this placement I was given the opportunity to work in a state-of-the-art pharmacy department. I worked alongside pharmacists and pharmacy assistants in the preparation areas.

Undergraduate student profi les

After some training, I was allowed to assist in the preparation of non-sterile products. This was a really interesting experience as I have never worked in such a production facility before. The hospital undertakes a high volume of extemporaneous dispensing, so employs a team of analytical chemists working in its quality control lab. I was given the chance to assist with testing the products that I had helped to produce. This allowed me to put some of my lab experience into practice.

My third and fi nal placement in Estonia was in the University of Tartu community pharmacy in Tartu city centre. To say that community pharmacy in Estonia is different to what I had previously experienced would be an understatement. The fi rst thing that struck me as I walked into the pharmacy is that everything is kept behind the counter, not only medicines but also cosmetics and toiletries. All large pharmacies must have designated lab facilities for the extemporaneous preparation of medications. Again, I was given the opportunity to help out with this.

I would like to thank everyone who helped me get the best out of my experience, including the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association, the Tartu University Pharmacy Association, the International Pharmaceutical Students’ Federation and all those people who welcomed me so warmly in Estonia.

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MPharm graduate Hetal Dattani from Birmingham talks about studying here

Before embarking upon a pharmacy degree, I wanted to be aware of what I might be getting into. Although my sister is a pharmacist, I didn’t really

know what a typical day in the profession was like, so I decided to spend a few days at work with her. It was busy, but I enjoyed being involved in patient care and counselling. It confi rmed that pharmacy was the career I wanted to pursue.

The main advantage of the course is that it is very up to date. The learning experience is as close to reality as possible, from practice-based learning to hospital-set environments for clinical sessions. This should contribute a great deal to helping me become a competent pharmacist.

As this is a new School, students are encouraged to be active in the development of the course and to feel involved in the School as a whole. The academic staff are approachable and offer support; they take every opportunity to enhance and encourage the students’ academic progression and professional development.

I am a representative of the British Pharmaceutical Students’ Association (BPSA) as well as an executive member of the Medway Pharmacy Students’ Association. This has enabled me to widen participation at Medway in BPSA activities, and we’ve been able to interact with other pharmacy students, pharmacists and pre-registration students to exchange, explore and learn from each other’s experiences. This opens up great prospects for my future career and getting involved with pharmacy on a European and international level.

During my time at the Medway School of Pharmacy, I lived on campus, which helped me balance working for the University of Greenwich as a student ambassador, studying and social life. It was also great fun to mix with students from other backgrounds and faculties.

I haven’t regretted the decision to study at Medway School of Pharmacy. It has provided me with a reputable foundation to build my career upon.

MPharm graduate Anthony Samson from Coxheath, Kent, describes his experiences

During my time at Medway School of Pharmacy I felt really supported by all of the academic team. They took time to make me feel

welcome and to maximise my learning. My fellow students were an interesting and diverse group of people and made the learning and life experience that much more valuable.

The MPharm programme was at times challenging but a very enjoyable experience, and university life was brilliant. I made some very strong bonds with teachers, staff and fellow students. I then completed my pre-registration year with Tesco, where I linked up with an excellent tutor. The whole pre-registration experience allowed me to take my skills and use them to their full potential while fulfi lling the requirements of the professional body. At the end of the year I successfully passed the registration exam and also won the Tesco pre-registration student of the year award. As a result of this, I made some good friends, both at the Tesco store and with the senior pharmacy team at the Tesco head offi ce.

My work as a pharmacist is very varied and challenging, but it remains a highly rewarding career which encourages continuous self-development. I would like to thank everyone at Medway School of Pharmacy and Tesco for their hard work that helped me to become the competent pharmacist I am today.

Undergraduate student profi les

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Research

The School has over 20 academic research staff arranged in three primary research groups:Chemistry & Drug Delivery, Clinical & Professional Practice and Biological Sciences.

In addition, the school has a number of research fellows and technicians and 31 PhD students registered in the last academic year.

Our research is supported by funding from research councils, charities and industry. In the last two years, we have attracted over £2 million in new research income including several notable awards from the MRC, Royal Society, BBSRC, British Heart Foundation, Asthma Research UK & Kent Cancer Trust.

The Biological Sciences group is housed in newly refurbished laboratories with dedicated molecular biology, tissue culture, electrophysiological and microscopy facilities. The group’s research is divided into two broad areas: neuropharmacology and immunology/virology.

The Chemistry & Drug Delivery group is also based in newly refurbished laboratories with dedicated state-of-the-art drug delivery, nanotechnology, spectroscopy, and chromatography and organic synthesis facilities. This group brings together researchers in medicinal chemistry and drug design, nanotechnology and polymer science & drug delivery and pharmaceutics, encouraging a multidisciplinary approach to research.

The Clinical & Professional Practice group has a range of research interests including addiction, long term conditions, metabolomics, child health, sexual health and professionalism of pharmacy

The quality of research done in UK universities is assessed via research assessment exercises (RAE). In the latest such exercise, in 2008, a number of academic staff from the School were returned through the University of Kent in the Biological Sciences and Psychiatry, Neuroscience and Clinical Psychology units of assessment. Kent’s Biological Sciences submission had 35% of its quality profi le rated as world leading or internationally excellent, while Kent’s Psychiatry, Neuroscience and Clinical Psychology submission was ranked in the UK’s top 20 with 40% of its research outputs rated as world leading or internationally excellent. The work of recently appointed neuroscience researchers in the School of Pharmacy was particularly noted. Overall, the university scored its best ever performance in this RAE and has been ranked, for the fi rst time, in the top 30 higher-education institutions in the UK, in terms of research quality.

To view the detailed research interests and recent, selected publications for each academic researcher, visit our website at www.msp.ac.uk/research.

If you are interested in joining us as a research student or research assistant, please contact our Director of Research, Professor Alistair Mathie.E-mail: a.a.mathie@kent.ac.uk

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Postgraduate Postgraduate Certificate and Diploma in General Pharmacy Practice

9 for the Certificate in General Pharmacy Practice) and workplace learning.

AssessmentA range of academic assessment strategies have been adopted, including:

■ Objective structured clinical examinations

■ Multiple-choice questions

■ Competency-based portfolio review

■ Written assignments to include short essays, critical appraisals and reflective analyses of clinical work.

Practical experience in the workplace will be assessed against the general level competency framework for general practitioners. This will be undertaken by the practice tutor at regular intervals to agreed criteria.

Careers Completion of the practice elements of the course will also lead to the award of a Statement of Completion of General Pharmacist Training (SCGPT) from an accredited training centre.

The Postgraduate Certificate and Diploma in General Practice Pharmacy (PgCert/DipGPP) is a part-time programme usually run over three years. It is designed to equip general-level pharmacy practitioners with the core skills and competencies they require to provide holistic pharmaceutical care in a practice setting. It is suitable for pharmacists working in the managed sector of the NHS (NHS Agenda for Change Band 6) and aligns with the nationally agreed pharmacy practitioner development strategy.

This degree programme has been developed as an innovative joint venture under the umbrella of the Joint Programmes Board (JPB), a collaboration between the NHS and nine higher education institutes across the east and south-east of England.

Medway School of Pharmacy, in collaboration with the University of Brighton, School of Pharmacy and Biosciences, has been awarded an NHS contract to provide this training.

TeachingThe programme is delivered by guided, self-directed student learning linked with contact days (for example

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FactsAwardPostgraduate Certifi cate in General Pharmacy Practice

Postgraduate Diploma in General Pharmacy Practice

LocationSome of the contact days will require attendance at Anson Building, University of Greenwich at Medway Campus, Chatham Maritime, Kent. Others will be run at local venues.

ApplicationPlease write to the programme leader General Practice Pharmacy, Medway School of Pharmacy.

Length18 months part-time (certifi cate only)Three years part-time (certifi cate and diploma)

Offer levelsApplicants will be pharmacists registered with the General Pharmaceutical Council.

In addition, student practitioners must have an accredited practice base from which to operate and have access to an accredited practice tutor.

FeaturesThe structure of the programme empowers adult learners to plan and develop their own learning pathway towards the achievement of the academic and practice awards, thereby addressing their own personal and professional development needs. Students assess their own progress through

the programme matrix and develop individual learning plans based on prior knowledge and skills acquisition. Students present themselves for summative assessment when they and their practice tutor and academic tutor feel they are ready. Regular progress reviews enable the identifi cation of failing students so that remedial action can be planned and implemented. The fl exible nature of the programme enables wider participation by pharmacists in a variety of work settings.

Programme structureThe programme comprises three compulsory modules:

Certifi catePractitioner Development (30 credits)

Establishing Your Professional and Clinical Practice (30 credits)

DiplomaMedicines Management in Practice (60 credits)

All postgraduate enquiries and applications should be directed to the Postgraduate Administrator at:

The Medway School of PharmacyAnson BuildingCentral AvenueChatham, KentME4 4TB.Tel: 01634 202965

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Postgraduate Postgraduate Certificate in Independent/Supplementary Prescribing

Legislative changes which began in 1998 have meant that nurses and pharmacists are now able to qualify as fully independent prescribers. In addition, radiographers, physiotherapists and podiatrists are able to qualify as supplementary prescribers. This eight-month, part-time, distance-learning programme enables these health-care professionals to develop the knowledge and skills to practise as prescribers and to meet the standards set by the respective professional/regulatory body as required within the legislative framework.

TeachingThe Prescribing Programme is delivered by distance learning plus a total of eight study days at the Medway School of Pharmacy for pharmacists with an additional day for nurses and allied health professionals, plus 12 days supervised in practice.

AssessmentAssessments include:

■ Written assignments

■ Case-study analysis

■ Multiple-choice questions

■ Narrative based on portfolio entries

■ Attendance of period of learning in practice

■ Objective structured clinical examination (OSCE).

CareersThere are many opportunities within the managed and private sectors for health-care professionals with a prescribing qualification. The PGCert in Prescribing forms a pathway on to the MSc in Medicines Management run by the Medway School of Pharmacy. Students can register for the PGCert in Prescribing as a stand-alone qualification or as part of the full diploma or MSc in Medicines Management.

FactsAwardPostgraduate Certificate in Independent and Supplementary Prescribing (nurses and pharmacists)Postgraduate Certificate in Supplementary Prescribing (allied health professionals)

LocationWork based and at the Medway School of Pharmacy

ApplicationWrite to the Programme Lead, Prescribing Programmes, Medway School of Pharmacy

LengthEight months

Offer levelsStudents will have:

■ Registration with the appropriate professional/regulatory body (NMC, GPhC, PSNI or HPC)

■ Appropriate experience in the area of practice in which they will be prescribing

■ The ability to study at academic M-level (i.e. a first degree or at least five years’ working experience in health care or ability to study at level 5 if a nurse and applying for the level 6 programme)

■ At least two years’ post-registration clinical experience (pharmacists)

■ At least three years’ post-registration clinical experience (nurses with first degree and allied health professionals)

■ Support from the sponsoring organisation confirming service need and access to appropriate supervised practice

■ A named, designated medical practitioner who will facilitate, supervise and support the student during his or her clinical placement.

FeaturesDistance learning offers a flexible approach for both students and employees. The programme is multidisciplinary with shared learning throughout the study days. Some study days incorporate workshops which are profession specific.

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Programme structureThe programme consists of four compulsory courses.

Level 7 courses:

■ Non-Medical Prescribing in Context

■ Safe and Effective Prescribing

■ Consultation and Decision Making

■ Putting Prescribing into Practice

Level 6 courses:

■ Background to Non Medical Prescribing

■ Prescribing Safely and Effectively

■ Embedding Prescribing in Your Consultations

■ The Practice of Prescribing

Non-Medical Prescribing in Context/Background to Non Medical PrescribingThis module explores the legal and professional framework which underpins non-medical prescribing. It allows the student to explore his or her accountability and responsibilities as a prescriber. The module considers the role of the non-medical prescriber in the context of the NHS and the wider health-care team, in particular the responsibility of the prescriber to take into account national and local prescribing guidance and practice.

Safe and Effective Prescribing/Prescribing Safely and EffectivelyThe module considers how pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics are altered in certain patient groups such as older people, children and pregnant women. The detection, prevention and reporting of adverse drug reactions and interactions, and the clinical signifi cance when they arise in practice, are covered. Also students are asked to consider the pathophysiology of defi ned conditions for which they are likely to be prescribing and the evidence base for the use of drug therapy in these cases.

Consultation and Decision Making/Embedding Prescribing in Your ConsultationsThis module aims to develop the student’s existing communication and consultation skills to improve the non-medical prescribing consultation. It introduces the principles involved in conducting a physical examination of those patients for whom the student will be able to prescribe. It also considers the application of information to prescribing practice.

Putting Prescribing into Practice/The Practice of PrescribingThis fi nal module considers monitoring of patients against targets set within the clinical management plan and what to do if changes to the management plan are indicated. It also considers compliance and concordance issues in relation to non-medical prescribing.

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Postgraduate MSc in Medicines Management

AssessmentAssessments include case-study analysis, critical appraisal of the literature, written assignments such as short essays, development of service specifications and narratives linking evidence with practice.

For the research project, which comprises the final 60 credits of the programme, students will be required to prepare a research poster for presentation and carry out a structured research thesis.

Careers There are many opportunities within medicines management for health-care professionals with an additional qualification.

FactsAward

■ Postgraduate Certificate Medicines Management

■ Diploma Medicines Management

■ MSc Medicines Management

LocationMedway School of Pharmacy, for contact days only.

ApplicationDirect to Postgraduate Admissions Tutor, Medway School of Pharmacy.

LengthOne to six years part-time

Offer levels ■ A first degree in a relevant subject from an

EU university. Equivalent qualifications from a non-EU university may be acceptable but their comparability will be assessed on an individual basis

■ At least five years of working experience in health care after obtaining a relevant professional qualification.

Medicines management is an important NHS priority. It describes a system of processes and behaviours that determines how medicines are used by patients and the NHS. Effective medicines management places the patient as the primary focus delivering better targeted care and better informed individuals.

The Medway School of Pharmacy MSc in Medicines Management is designed to equip health-care professionals with the skills and knowledge to contribute effectively to medicines management services and to individual drug therapy decisions.

TeachingThe programme is delivered by distance learning supported by two contact days (one for each level). The programme content is regulated updated and each module comprises a mixture of text, resources for self-study and case studies interspersed with suggestions for activities which link the learning directly with their own practice.

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Applicants must work within the UK NHS.

Candidates who do not have English as their fi rst language may be required to achieve an International English Language Test Score (IELTS) of 6.5 or above (or equivalent).

FeaturesThe distance-learning nature of the programme makes it very fl exible. Students can start at any time throughout the year and are able to negotiate a personal timetable for submission of assessment with the programme tutors. The modules are fully supported by experienced pharmacists, many of whom have a continuing clinical or management role within the NHS.

Programme structureThe programme consists of various modules. These are either core to the programme or optional. Students undertaking the certifi cate must complete at total of 60 credits, of which at least 20 credits must be from core modules. Diploma students must complete a further 60 credits of study, with an additional 20 credits of core modules. Students who continue to MSc level must complete a research project related to their practice, write a thesis, and prepare a poster presentation.

Consultation and Communication in Practice: Patients as Partners (10 credits)(core)This module will explore the complex and often confl icting health beliefs and external infl uences which affect an individual’s decisions about the need for, and safety of, their medicines. It will equip the student

to develop communication strategies to deliver personalised information which meets individual patient’s expressed needs thereby supporting adherence to medication regimes.

Medicines Management in Practice (10 credits)(core)This module helps prepare practitioners for undertaking systematic and holistic medication review at Levels 1–3 (as defi ned in the new General Medical Services [nGMS] contract) in the context of an established medicines management programme using the principles of pharmaceutical care planning.

Medication Review in Practice (10 credits)(core)This module will set medicines management in the context of NHS service delivery, by highlighting local and national policy drivers and initiatives, and demonstrating how effective services are underpinned by clinical governance. This course will help to equip practitioners to lead, develop, support and deliver innovative, safe and cost effective medicines management services in their area of practice.

Using Evidence Effectively (10 credits)(core)This module will set the application of evidence-based medicine in the context of medicines management by ensuring the student can use search, critical appraisal and communication skills to support prescribing and monitoring decisions.

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Postgraduate Short course provision

Careers Students who are prescribers are required to carry out CPD specific to their prescribing role; in some cases re-registration is dependent on this. Pharmacists who are undertaking advanced services under the new pharmacy contract are required to provide proof of training. Pharmacists who wish to engage in locally commissioned enhanced services will identify learning needs which can be addressed through CPD modules.

The Medway School of Pharmacy offers a portfolio of Continuing Professional Development (CPD) modules suitable for pharmacists and other health care professionals. These are focused around the clinical and cost-effective use of medicines and prescribing.

Currently the CPD modules available include:

■ Practice Certificate in Pharmacy Management – Part 1 (5 credits)

■ Practice Certificate in Pharmacy Management –Part 2 (5 credits)

■ Skills for Public Health – Part 1 (5 credits)

■ Skills for MURs – Medicines Use Reviews (5 credits)

■ Patient Monitoring in Practice (10 credits)

■ Minor Ailments: Pain (5 credits)

■ Minor Ailments: Infections and Infestations (10 credits)

■ Asthma (5 credits)

■ COPD (5 credits)

■ Hypertension (5 credits)

■ Ischaemic Heart Disease (5 credits)

■ Heart Failure (5 credits)

■ Type 1 Diabetes (5 credits)

■ Type 2 Diabetes (5 credits)

■ Upper Gastro-Intestinal Disease (5 credits)

■ Depression

■ Dementia (for 2012)

■ Bipolar disorder

■ Schizophrenia (for 2012)

■ Substance Misuse

■ Alcohol Use and Misuse

TeachingShort Courses include:

■ 5 and 10 credit distance-learning courses ■ Study days.

AssessmentAssessment is through completion of case studies and assignments which are principally work based.

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ApplicationShort-Course application forms are available on request from the Postgraduate Admissions Tutor, Medway School of Pharmacy.

LengthPractice certificates are usually completed in four to six months.

Offer levelsStudents must have:

■ A first degree in a relevant subject from an EU university. Equivalent qualifications from a non-EU university may be acceptable but their comparability will be assessed on an individual basis.

OR

■ At least five years of working experience in health care after obtaining a relevant professional qualification.

FeaturesThe short course provision offers a range of options for health-care professionals wishing to enhance the medicines management services they offer patients and fulfil learning needs as part of CPD. It is possible to link CPD modules together to complete a short course programme. In a short course programme, a student studies linked modules over a set period of time. Popular short course programmes include: Long Term Conditions, Pharmacy Services, Mental Health and Pharmacist with Special Interest.

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Postgraduate Short course provision

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Skills for MURs This 5-credit module published in conjunction with Chemist + Druggist magazine is to accredit pharmacists to provide medicine use reviews (MURs) for patients under the new NHS pharmacy contract. Supporting material cover skills needed for MURs and a range of clinical topics. New for 2011 is the inclusion of materials to supported targeted MURs. Assessment is through the presentation of case studies via an online resource.

Patient Monitoring in PracticeAn understanding and interpretation of clinical tests is vital to help with diagnosis and monitoring of disease and drug therapy. In addition, enhanced services may well involve near-patient testing in the pharmacy. This 10-credit module provides underpinning knowledge for a range of services that pharmacists and other health-care professionals may be offering or thinking about providing for patients. Assessment is through multiple choice questions and the submission of case studies.

Skills for Public Health Part 1This 10-part module published in conjunction with the Chemist + Druggist magazine looks at the evidence base behind the key public-health interventions. It shows practical ways in which pharmacists can provide services in this key area of development for pharmacy.

Practice Certificate in Pharmacy ManagementThese two modules consider the key management topics, applied specifically to the pharmacy setting. The modules cover the team, the individual, the structure and the task and offers practical advice on how to work in and/or lead any pharmacy-based organisation, however large or small.

Therapeutic CPD ModulesThese allow students to progress through the material at a pace that suits them. The materials include case studies, and portfolio and learning activities to enhance understanding and application to practice. Assessment for five-credit modules is through the completion and submission of case studies. Additional written work is required for 10-credit modules.

Minor Ailments: Infections and Infestations (10 credits)

Minor Ailments: Pain (5 credits)

These two modules in the minor-ailment series are suitable for pharmacists and nurses. They consider specific types of minor ailment. One module explores infections and infestations while the other covers pain. Together, these two modules encompass a large proportion of the conditions covered in a minor-ailment service. The learning material provided helps with competent diagnosis and consideration of the clinical and cost-effective options for the management of individual patients presenting with these conditions.

Asthma (5 credits)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) (5 credits)

These modules help students work more closely with patients with asthma or COPD to improve understanding of the practical management issues and the evidence underpinning the therapeutics.

Hypertension (5 credits)

Ischaemic Heart Disease (5 credits)

Heart Failure (5 credits)

Hypertension is a key health issue as it is a major modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Its impact on causing future health problems is well established, as are the benefits of treatment. Ischaemic heart disease and heart failure are cardiac conditions which cause much suffering and can lead to premature death. For many patients pharmacotherapy of these cardiac conditions is sub optimal. These modules will support students to work more closely with patients to enhance the management of these common cardiac conditions through an improved understanding of the practical management issues and the evidence underpinning the therapeutics.

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Type 1 Diabetes (5 credits)

Type 2 Diabetes (5 credits)

It is estimated that 2.5 million people in the UK have been diagnosed with diabetes. A further million may have developed the disease but will not have been diagnosed. The management of diabetes currently accounts for approximately 5% of NHS expenditure, but this will clearly rise, particularly as the complications include kidney failure, cardiovascular disease, stroke, blindness and lower limb amputation. This module will help you to develop your skills and knowledge around the provision of evidence-based clinical care to patients with Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes.

Depression (5 credits)

Bipolar Disorder (5 credits)

Dementia (5 credits)

Schizophrenia (5 credits)

These modules will help you develop your skills and knowledge about the place of pharmacotherapy in the management of these commonly encountered mental health conditions

Substance Misuse (5 credits)

This module reviews international, national, local and personal perspectives on drug misuse. It also looks at treatment services and treatment options for service users in the context of medicines management.

Alcohol Use and Misuse (5 credits)

This module aims to develop skills in understanding, identifying and managing alcohol-use disorders in primary care.

Upper Gastrointestinal Disease (5 credits)

This module covers dyspepsia, gastro-oesophageal refl ex desease (GORD) and peptic ulcer desease. Upper G1 disorders are remarkably prevalent in the western world. This module will equip students to understand the importance of good history taking, combined with clinical evaluation in diagnosing patients.

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Pharmacist with Special Interest (PhwSI) 30 credit short course programmePharmacist with Special Interest have been defined by the Department of Health as pharmacists who supplement their core generalist role by delivering an additional, high-quality service to meet the needs of patients. Working principally in the community, they deliver a clinical service beyond the scope of their core professional role or may undertake advanced interventions not normally undertaken by their peers. They will have demonstrated appropriate skills and competencies to deliver those services without direct supervision.

The role of the PhwSI is being driven by the need to redesign services in order to improve access to care for patients, and to improve the service they receive. It is not a requirement for a PhwSI to be qualified as a prescriber, but in practice many will be as this could potentially enhance the scope of the role. PhwSI will normally practise across a locality or primary care trust (PCT) or within a clinical network. As part of a local accreditation process, PhwSIs will be expected to demonstrate competencies in line with a nationally agreed framework.

This short course consists of two 15-credit modules and is delivered by a combination of four study days held at the Medway School of Pharmacy, self-directed learning, distance learning materials and a minimum of six days in practice supported by a mentor in the specialism that the pharmacist will be working in.

It is important to note that the successful completion of this course DOES NOT lead to qualification as a PhwSI. This status can only be achieved by accreditation through your local practitioner with a special interest approval panel (or equivalent).

In order to be considered for entry to the course, you must have:

■ Been practising as a pharmacist for at least two years

■ Preliminary evidence of advanced-level practice in the specialist clinical area

■ An identified patient need for the specialist service

■ The support of your local Health Trust

■ An identified mentor who will support you through the period of learning in practice.

NB. For local accreditation you will be required to provide a reference from an objective, relevant and independent clinician who will confirm your competence as a PhwSI. You may wish to consider this when selecting your mentor for this course.

Assessments include:

■ A portfolio with supporting narrative/attendance at placement, mapped against PhwSI competencies

■ Evidence-based management of a patient in the chosen area of specialism

■ A business case for specialist service provision

■ An assessed presentation.

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Kathy Ellis, Advanced Nurse Practitioner

I undertook this degree to increase my knowledge and skills as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Nurse Independent Prescriber.

I enjoyed the programme which is very applicable

to my role in a large GP practice in Kent. Distance learning over four years gave me the fl exibility to study while working. My tutors were very accessible and supportive and contact days provided good opportunities for networking.

In addition to core courses, I could tailor the programme to my role by selecting relevant modules. These included applied therapeutics in: Minor Ailments, Cardiovascular Disease and Asthma. Assessments included case study analysis, for example I wrote how I assessed,

MSc Medicines Management student profi le

diagnosed and managed patients in my minor illness clinic. Assignments included writing about service developments which I could put into practice. For example, I developed a delayed antibiotic prescribing strategy which I audited and presented to our GPs.

To complete the programme I conducted research in an area relevant to my practice. I chose to explore the experiences of patients who had undergone insulin initiation in a general practice clinic. I was fortunate in having regular contact with my supervisor who facilitated the research. Importantly, I feel my study has made a small but valuable contribution to patient care. Following presentations of my fi ndings to clinicians and study participants, I developed some new leafl ets, as part of the improvements identifi ed. More recently, the study fi ndings were published in a peer-reviewed diabetes journal.

Overall I enjoyed the programme which has enhanced my advanced practice and I would certainly encourage others to undertake this degree.

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Out and about

A School set in the heart of MedwayMedway School of Pharmacy sits at the heart of the new multi-university campus at Chatham Maritime. This development is wrapped within a partnership with shared facilities between the Universities of Kent and Greenwich, MidKent College and Canterbury Christ Church University.

Medway takes its name from the strategically placed river set halfway between London and the Channel ports and comprises a collection of towns, namely Chatham, Rochester, Gillingham and Strood. The River Medway and its banks became a major ship-building port leading to the formation of Chatham Dockyard in 1547. Sheerness on the Isle of Sheppey was also developed to complement the Medway naval activities. Many famous ships were built in Chatham, and of note is the Pilgrim Fathers’ ‘Mayflower’, which was launched at Strood.

Medway has changed significantly in recent years and is now the largest development area in the South East and is home to 13,000 businesses. As part of the Thames Gateway project, the Medway regeneration programme is set to transform the area over the next 20 years. A new city centre is to be built with Chatham centre and waterfront at its heart. The plan is to make the whole ‘Medway Waterfront’ area a unique place, renowned for its exciting buildings, open spaces, riverside walks and historic environment. It will generate up to 16,000 new homes and more than 20,000 new jobs.

Everything you want on your doorstepThe county of Kent is a popular draw for tourists, who come in their thousands each year to visit its castles, beaches, picture-postcard villages and seaside towns. The county has an excellent network of motorways and A roads, as well as a good train service.

Around the campus and in MedwayA short walk from the campus is the Dockside Outlet Centre, a shopping centre specialising in clothes and household goods. Next door is the Odeon cinema and Dickens World theme park, which brings Victorian England to life with some of Dickens’ most famous characters. The council also puts on popular Dickens’ festivals with colourful parades.

The Medway Towns are multicultural and the spin-off is a wide variety of superb restaurants. Everything from Chinese, Thai and Indian to Italian and French cuisine is on the menu. The Medway nightlife is also very good. Rochester in particular has a large selection of good-quality, sociable pubs, from familiar chains, such as Wetherspoons, to small landlord-owned pubs.

The area boasts a number of health and fitness clubs, including three large clubs that are council-run. Football is very popular and the local Gillingham Football Club has a loyal following. If you enjoy sailing, a large number of marinas have been built along the River Medway. Crewing jobs are often available on the many boats. Other popular pursuits include fishing, photography, painting and bird watching in the three Medway country parks, while there is a ski school at Capstone Country Park.

The Medway area is uniquely situated within a short distance of a large number of attractions. London is less than an hour away by train journey and France less than two hours. The following will give you an idea of what you can do if you want to travel further afield…

On the edge of LondonChislehurst Caves, near Bromley, has over 20 miles of caverns and passageways once used by the Romans. With its cycle and car racing, Brands Hatch is a great draw for motor-racing enthusiasts. If you have the money, you can take a spin around the circuit in a racing car, try karting, or learn skid control. The airfield at Biggin Hill is known for its international air fair. Here you can see rare aircraft and spectacles such as the Red Arrows, the RAF’s aerobatics team.

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Bluewater, Europe’s largest shopping centre, is a 40-minute bus journey from Chatham bus station.

Hever Castle, near Edenbridge, once the home of Henry VIII’s second wife Anne Boleyn, offers both a picturesque moated castle and extensive gardens. In Tunbridge Wells you can wander down the Pantiles, a pedestrianised area of 18th-century colonnaded shops. Here you will fi nd the chalybeate spring, the source of the waters that made this a popular spa town.

Heart of the countyLeeds Castle, near Maidstone, is reputed to be one of the world’s loveliest castles. Its grounds, with lake, maze, aviary and grotto, hosts classical music and pop concerts. North-east of Maidstone is Detling Showground, a venue for open-air events.

CanterburyAbout 40 minutes from Medway by train or car, the city of Canterbury is dominated by its cathedral, one of the fi nest religious buildings in Britain. Museums and art galleries are spread throughout the city and the Marlowe Theatre offers everything from music and comedy to West-End productions.

The city is known for its pubs and bars, many tailored to students. Cricket fans head for the St Lawrence ground, home of the Kent County Cricket Club. Canterbury has a mix of department stores and smaller outlets, while a few miles outside the city is McArthur Glen Designer Outlet, which offers top names with excellent discounts. Howletts Wild Animal Park is also nearby. This has collections of elephants, tigers, wolves and monkeys, and the largest breeding colony of gorillas in the world.

North Kent coastWhitstable, with its sea front and weatherboarded houses, is one of Kent’s most charming towns. As well as restaurants, galleries and antique shops, it offers the essential Whitstable experience: a plate of oysters at a waterfront restaurant. Margate offers the traditional seaside experience, sea, sand and fi sh and chips, but it also has an aquarium at Palm Bay and a mysterious shell grotto. You can also try your luck at the amusement arcades on the sea front.

Overlooking the Channel, Dover Castle dominates the town from its position on the White Cliffs. Highlights include the keep, decked out to welcome a touring Henry VIII, and Hellfi re Corner, a network of tunnels used during World War II as a military hospital and command centre for the evacuation of Dunkirk.

MaidstoneMaidstone, the county town of Kent, is only 10 miles from Medway and is a popular draw for students,

particularly for its nightlife. There are a variety of clubs catering to different ages and different tastes in music, from RnB and commercial dance to electro and trance.By day, there are other attractions: the town has many places to shop, including Fremlin Walk, which has some of the larger department stores, and the Royal Arcade, with smaller specialist shops. Visitors can also fi nd a cinema, bowling alley and a highly individual selection of tourist attractions. Pubs offer reasonably priced food or you can choose from a range of cuisine in Earl Street, where you can also fi nd the Hazlitt Theatre.

FolkestoneFolkestone is a mix of traditional seaside resort and Edwardian elegance – harbour, seafood stalls, cobbled streets and a mile-long cliff-top promenade. For the sports fan, Folkestone’s main attraction is the racecourse. This hosts twenty days of racing a year, both fl at and National Hunt.

There are plenty of other things to see and do in the county of Kent. For more suggestions, visit www.kenttourism.co.uk.

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Medway Pharmacy Students’ Association The Medway Pharmacy Students’ Association (MPSA) would like to welcome all prospective and registered students to the Medway School of Pharmacy.

The MPSA aims to enrich student life on campus via social events and support, aspiring to foster a sense of School spirit and unity within the student body. Established in 2008, the MPSA is a registered society under the Universities at Medway Students’ Association. In fact, we are the largest student association on campus, boasting an impressive 526 members.

The Universities at Medway Students’ Association The Universities at Medway Students’ Association (UMSA) is the students’ organisation for the Universities of Greenwich, Kent and Canterbury Christ Church at the shared Universities at Medway Campus in Chatham Maritime.

The association provides representation, activities and wide-ranging services to its 9,000 students and is the fastest-growing student organisation in the UK. It exists to ensure that you get the most out of your time at university.

Activities

The association includes two award-winning bars, a convenience store, a student-advice centre and a JobShop to find part-time work for students. In addition, the association operates numerous sports clubs and societies through its student-activities centre and boasts over one thousand active members. Highlights include a growing number of successful sports teams, a campus newspaper, Pulp, various fund-raising activities and an annual boat race between the universities, which takes place on the River Medway.

The association, which is managed by Kent Union, employs a mixture of career and student staff and is based in Jellicoe and Pilkington Buildings. The organisation turns over £750,000 per year, is a not-for-profit organisation and re-invests its commercial revenues into offering better activities and services to its students.

Sports and societiesThere are currently several sports teams representing the Universities at Medway in men’s and women’s football, netball, mixed hockey, rugby and basketball. The number of sports on offer is growing every year, and new students are always welcome to suggest new ones. We also welcome ideas for new societies. At the moment, we have ten societies covering a variety of interests, but we are always on the lookout for more. We offer full support to anyone who has an idea for starting up a new one. Sports and societies are an integral part of university life, providing a fantastic opportunity for participation and friendship.

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Medway Park

Medway Park is Medway’s new centre of sporting excellence, with the needs of the community at its heart. Development work on what was then the Black Lion leisure centre began in 2009. Medway Park opened in April 2010. £11.1m has been invested in the project, with the objective of providing Medway with a sporting hub of a calibre and diversity unequalled anywhere else in Kent.

Medway Park received £5m of government funding and £3m from the University of Kent at Medway to provide state-of-the-art sports science and sports therapy for both academic and commercial purposes.

The plans are designed to deliver benefits both for 2012 and beyond. Facilities will benefit the sporting elite and the community at large and meet the needs of the burgeoning Universities at Medway campus and the new MidKent College development.

Students leisure passes can be purchased from Medway Park using their University of Kent student ID.

For further information on the facilities at Medway Park, please see www.medwaypark.org.uk.

RepresentationUMSA is a democratic organisation which values the needs and interests of its members. In order to provide a true voice for the students, a number of student officers are elected each year to form an executive committee. There are positions for education, welfare, entertainments, sport and societies, as well as a president, general secretary and MidKent College.

Commercial servicesThe association runs Essentials, a well-stocked convenience store, and Coopers and Purple, the on-campus pub and club. All of these facilities have undergone substantial refurbishment recently and are extremely popular among students of all the universities.

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Accommodation All eligible pharmacy students will be offered accommodation at our state-of-the-art facilities at Liberty Quays. This development is just a few minutes’ walk away from the campus. Accommodation is arranged in clusters of flats and provides the latest in comfort and amenities. All bedrooms have their own shower and toilet and each room is networked.

The flats are for five, six or eight students, each sharing a fully equipped kitchen. Students also have the option of studio flats (subject to availability). These have their own en-suite bathroom, shower and cooking facilities.

Included in the cost of the rent are:

■ All utility charges

■ Internet access in every bedroom

■ Personal contents insurance

■ A 24-hour reception service

■ An on-site maintenance team

■ An electronic entry system and CCTV.

The Liberty Quays development has its own social area, launderette, Tesco Express store and food outlets. For further information, please visit the University of Kent website at www.kent.ac.uk.

Approx 20-minute walkto Gillingham train station

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St. George’s Centre

Gatehouse Entrance Security/Reception

Pembroke Building School of Engineering Medway Academic Planning Wardroom Lecture Rooms Facilities Management University of Greenwich Marketing Department

Medway Enterprise Hub Partnership Division Centre for Work-Based Learning School of Architecture, Design & Construction

Post Room

Blake Building Accommodation Offi ce Natural Resources Institute School of Engineering Labs Short Course Centre Student Centre

Nelson Building School of Health & Social Care Computing Print room Medway Sciences Showering facilities

Anson Building Medway School of Pharmacy

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Grenville Building School of Science Centre for Sports & Exercise Sciences

Hawke Building School of Engineering Renishaw Productivity Centre

Wolfson Centre for Bulk Solids Handling Technology

Wolfe House Hall of Residence

Merlin House Hall of Residence

Adelaide House Hall of Residence

Forte House Hall of Residence

Sunne House Hall of Residence

Sports Hall

Drill Hall Library LearnHigher Training Room Seminar Rooms IT Helpdesk Study Skills Helpdesk Teaching Rooms Open Access IT

Pilkington Building Universities at Medway Students’ Association (UMSA)

Lecture Theatre Restaurant Teaching Rooms

Jellicoe Building Coopers Bar (UMSA) Campus Shop (UMSA) Lecture Theatres Teaching Rooms

University of Greenwich parking

University of Kent parking

Canterbury Christ Church Universityparking

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ATM machine

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The Universities of Greenwichand KentAnson BuildingCentral AvenueChatham MaritimeChathamKent ME4 4TB

EnquiriesFor general enquiries, please contact receptionTel: +44 (0)1634 883150

Fax: +44 (0)1634 883927

Web: www.msp.ac.uk

Undergraduate admissionsDebby Dixon, Admissions Manager

Tel: +44 (0)1634 883405

E-mail: pharmacy@medway.ac.uk

Postgraduate admissionsTel: +44 (0)1634 883150

medway school of pharmacy

D5670-11 E August 11