The Student Room Group

ALevels for Pharmacy?

I'm a Year 13 Student in Northern Ireland studying A-Level Maths, Chemistry, Physics and History.
I'm hoping to later go to University (Most likely in NI or England) to study Pharmacy, but I'm worried about the fact I won't have an A-Level in Biology.
I've checked the entry requirements for multiple universities, and although most only need Chemistry and a second science, I still feel my lack of biology will put me at a disadvantage.
Am I still likely to be able to study Pharmacy at a Uni like Queens or UEA?

Reply 1

Original post by JH160310
I'm a Year 13 Student in Northern Ireland studying A-Level Maths, Chemistry, Physics and History.
I'm hoping to later go to University (Most likely in NI or England) to study Pharmacy, but I'm worried about the fact I won't have an A-Level in Biology.
I've checked the entry requirements for multiple universities, and although most only need Chemistry and a second science, I still feel my lack of biology will put me at a disadvantage.
Am I still likely to be able to study Pharmacy at a Uni like Queens or UEA?


Second science… you have physics… what’s the issue

Reply 2

Original post by ehluharriet06
Second science… you have physics… what’s the issue

Just wasn't sure if the lack of Biology would be a major problem as I thought it might have be more preferrable than Physics
(edited 3 months ago)

Reply 3

You dont need A level Biology - nor do you need 4 A levels.

If a Uni doesnt state explicitly that Biology is required or preferred - it isn't. Thanks to Marketing legislation, Unis now have to be totally upfront and honest about all entry requirements so there is no secret information. Apply.

Lots of MPharm info here - Useful resources for MPharm PS and Interviews - The Student Room

Reply 4

You don’t need biology as chemistry is the main science you need - but just double check the entry requirements for the uni you’re applying for .

I personally didn’t find it difficult studying pharmacy without a background in biology as they teach 1st year students a lot of a levels biochem lectures to ensure everyone is on the same level.

Overall, you don’t need bio to apply for pharmacy and it won’t put your application at a disadvantage. Just make sure you’re prepared for the maths exam / interview if you’ve been given one to do then you’re well.

Reply 5

Original post by McGinger
You dont need A level Biology - nor do you need 4 A levels.
If a Uni doesnt state explicitly that Biology is required or preferred - it isn't. Thanks to Marketing legislation, Unis now have to be totally upfront and honest about all entry requirements so there is no secret information. Apply.
Lots of MPharm info here - Useful resources for MPharm PS and Interviews - The Student Room

Thanks for the resources :smile:

Reply 6

Original post by nickles_02
You don’t need biology as chemistry is the main science you need - but just double check the entry requirements for the uni you’re applying for .
I personally didn’t find it difficult studying pharmacy without a background in biology as they teach 1st year students a lot of a levels biochem lectures to ensure everyone is on the same level.
Overall, you don’t need bio to apply for pharmacy and it won’t put your application at a disadvantage. Just make sure you’re prepared for the maths exam / interview if you’ve been given one to do then you’re well.

That's really reassuring. Thank you!

Reply 7

Original post by JH160310
I'm a Year 13 Student in Northern Ireland studying A-Level Maths, Chemistry, Physics and History.
I'm hoping to later go to University (Most likely in NI or England) to study Pharmacy, but I'm worried about the fact I won't have an A-Level in Biology.
I've checked the entry requirements for multiple universities, and although most only need Chemistry and a second science, I still feel my lack of biology will put me at a disadvantage.
Am I still likely to be able to study Pharmacy at a Uni like Queens or UEA?

Hi! I have done research and I think Queens University Belfast has a preference for biology, but most unis I've looked at in England don't prefer (or even require biology specifically). As long as you have another science (which you do), there shouldn't be an issue. I know someone who did the same a levels as you (bar history) and is now doing pharmacy in UCL. You will be alright. Me and my final braincells are rooting for you!
Original post by JH160310
I'm a Year 13 Student in Northern Ireland studying A-Level Maths, Chemistry, Physics and History.
I'm hoping to later go to University (Most likely in NI or England) to study Pharmacy, but I'm worried about the fact I won't have an A-Level in Biology.
I've checked the entry requirements for multiple universities, and although most only need Chemistry and a second science, I still feel my lack of biology will put me at a disadvantage.
Am I still likely to be able to study Pharmacy at a Uni like Queens or UEA?

If the entry requirements say you only need chemistry and a second science, then that is what you need. They would have specified if you needed biology.

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