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Pharmacy unis to apply for?

Hi everyone,

I’m looking to apply for Pharmacy (MPharm) this year and I wanted to ask for some advice on which unis I should consider.

I have:

GCSE Maths: Grade 5

GCSE English Language: Grade 7

A-levels: Biology, Chemistry and Business

I know some of the Russell Group unis ask for a higher grade in Maths GCSE, but I’d still love to attend a uni with a diverse student community and good support for Pharmacy students.

Does anyone know which universities are more flexible with the GCSE requirements, or where I’d still have a good chance of getting an offer?

Thanks in advance!

Reply 1

Hi! I'm currently studying at the University of Reading and have lots about the pharmacy courses we offer. The MPharm course is really well structured. It combines scientific knowledge with clinical practice, and lots of hands-on experience through placements and simulated patient interactions.

One thing I’ve found especially helpful is the thrive mentoring scheme. It pairs students with professionals or alumni who offer guidance on everything from career planning to managing workload. It’s been a great way to feel more connected and supported throughout the course.
The student community here is really diverse and welcoming, and there’s a strong sense of collaboration rather than competition. It’s worth reaching out to admissions directly or attending an open day to chat with staff and current students if you want to ask more about grade requirements or their experience at the university.
Feel free to message if you want to know more!
Original post
by username7779930
Hi everyone,

I’m looking to apply for Pharmacy (MPharm) this year and I wanted to ask for some advice on which unis I should consider.

I have:

GCSE Maths: Grade 5

GCSE English Language: Grade 7

A-levels: Biology, Chemistry and Business

I know some of the Russell Group unis ask for a higher grade in Maths GCSE, but I’d still love to attend a uni with a diverse student community and good support for Pharmacy students.

Does anyone know which universities are more flexible with the GCSE requirements, or where I’d still have a good chance of getting an offer?

Thanks in advance!

Unis are not flexible with GCSE requirements. If you don't meet the requirements, it will be an automatic rejection as they are considered the minimum standard required for you to complete the course successfully.

Not going to a Russell Group uni for pharm won't impact your employability. All Mpharm courses are held to the same standards by the GPC.

Reply 3

Hi there,

Great to hear about your interest in studying an MPharm course at university. You would be eligible to apply for our MPharm degree at Liverpool John Moores University with your GCSE results and A-level subject combination.

Here are some key highlights of the course:

Accredited by the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC)

Delivered by one of the oldest and most established schools of pharmacy in the world

Excellent links and placement opportunities with local hospitals, community pharmacies and primary care teams

Strong focus on applying science to clinical practice

Placements, student–patient engagement and inter-professional learning starting from Year 1

Comprehensive support for your personal and professional development to help you reach your potential

LJMU ranked 18th in the UK for Pharmacy and Pharmacology (The Guardian University Guide 2025)

98% of students said teaching staff were good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2025)

You can find full course details here:https://www.ljmu.ac.uk/study/courses/undergraduates/2026/35577-pharmacy-mpharm

The course also has an International Foundation Year, which means students progress from a wide range of backgrounds—so you’ll find a diverse and welcoming student community. Liverpool itself is a vibrant, multicultural city with great food, festivals and events. The Lunar New Year celebrations in Chinatown are a personal favourite!

If you’d like to explore further:

Please feel free to ask if you have any more questions—I’d be happy to help.

Megan (LJMU Rep)
(edited 1 month ago)

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