Level 3 Pharmacology Diploma
Each unit will comprise 2 sections; the first explores the anatomy of the structure so that specific pharmacokinetics and drug characteristics are understood; and the second focuses on the common conditions, treatments and drug class. This will enable students to understand fully the principles and practice of pharmacology and the how and why of drug action on different body systems.
Included within the course will be a range of Independent Study Activities and case studies designed to encourage students to develop their knowledge and underpin their understanding of the subject.
The guidelines and protocols mentioned in this course are UK-based.
This course is thoughtfully structured into ten manageable units, each exploring key aspects of the field.
Level 3 Pharmacology Diploma Entry Requirements
All students must be 16 years of age and above to enter our Level 3 Pharmacology Diploma course.
Level 3 Diploma courses require a minimum prior learning to GCSE standard in order that students can manage their studies and the assumed knowledge within course content.
Course Study Hours
Approximately 20 hours per unit
Assessment
Optional coursework and final examination.
Enrolment
Please note that you can enrol on this course at any time.
Course Length
1 Year.
Endorsed By
Students have the option to choose the awarding body of their course.
This course has been endorsed by :
Quality Licence Scheme: https://qualitylicencescheme.co.uk/
Or
Accord: https://accord.ac/
These courses’ awarding bodies are recognised for their high-quality, non-regulated provision and training programmes. This course is not regulated by Ofqual and is not an accredited qualification. Your training provider will be able to advise you on any further recognition, for example, progression routes into further and/or higher education. For further information please visit the Quality Licence Scheme website or the Accord website
Progression
This Level 3 Pharmacology Diploma course can be used to gain entry to a Level 4 Diploma or higher.
Course Content
Unit 1: What is Pharmacology?
Explore the intricacies of pharmacology in this detailed module, delving into its origins and evolution. Understand its pivotal role in medical, nursing, dentistry, and veterinary practices. Discover ongoing research efforts by pharmacologists and drug companies to enhance treatment options for various illnesses. The module also explains the three phases of clinical testing and the significance of patents in the development of new drugs.
Unit 2: The Principles of Pharmacokinetics
This unit concentrates on the pharmacokinetic process of Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Elimination (ADME). It describes the main drug administration sites and their corresponding elimination routes in the body. The role of the kidneys and liver in drug metabolism and elimination is explored, along with the two stages of drug absorption in orally administered drugs.
Unit 3: How Drugs Act
This unit delves into the mechanisms of drug actions within the body, emphasising how drugs target specific receptors, such as pain receptors. Explore receptor classifications, chemical messages, and cell communication. The unit also covers the explanation of drug side effects.
Unit 4: The Respiratory System
This unit details the anatomy of the respiratory system, including the mouth, nose, trachea, lungs, and diaphragm, and explores the physiology of breathing. It covers common respiratory conditions like Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), along with pharmacological interventions, including inhalers. The unit also outlines the main principles of immunisation.
Unit 5: The Heart and Vascular System
This unit provides a foundational grasp of the anatomy and physiology of the heart and vascular system, along with common conditions like angina, myocardial infarction, heart failure, systemic hypertension, and peripheral vascular disease. It explores various drug classes used to treat these conditions, examining their interactions and effects.
Unit 6: The Kidneys
This unit covers the anatomy and physiology of the kidneys, along with specific diseases and treatments, emphasising drugs affecting the kidneys and related systems. Diuretics, a primary group of kidney-acting drugs prescribed for cardiovascular diseases, are explored, including their effects. Additionally, the unit delves into pharmacological treatments for kidney failure, kidney stones, and adult nocturnal enuresis.
Unit 7: The Digestive System
This unit starts by exploring the anatomy and physiology of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract, along with the conditions that impact it. With the digestive system representing 8% of all prescribed medications in the UK, the unit covers a spectrum from treating vomiting and diarrhoea to addressing irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease. It delves into drugs influencing inflammation, gastric secretion, and overall function within the GI system.
Unit 8: The Pancreas, Pituitary and Thyroid Glands
This unit explores the endocrine system, focusing on the pancreas, pituitary, and thyroid glands. These glands release hormones into the blood, influencing processes like sugar synthesis, growth, and heat production. The anatomy, physiology, and functional mechanisms of each gland are examined, along with associated illnesses such as diabetes mellitus and hyperthyroidism. Additionally, the unit covers drug groups used to manage these conditions.
Unit 9: The Nervous System
This unit delves into the structure and function of the brain, emphasising drug receptors and the blood-brain barrier, crucial for pharmacological agents’ efficacy. It provides a detailed examination of the Central Nervous System (CNS), Parasympathetic Nervous System (PNS), and Autonomic Nervous System (PNS) and their functions. The unit discusses various drugs used in treating nervous system conditions, outlining the pharmacological characteristics of antiepileptics, antipsychotics, antidepressants, and analgesics.
Unit 10: Antibiotics and Chemotherapy
This concluding unit covers the crucial topic of how antibiotic drugs eliminate infections caused by gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria. It further details the growth and reproduction of cancer cells and the mechanism of chemotherapy, impacting cell division along with associated side effects like hair loss and vomiting. The unit also explores the use of retro-antiviral drugs in treating HIV.
Requirements
- All students must be 16 years of age and above to enter our Level 3 Pharmacology Diploma course. Level 3 Diploma courses require a minimum prior learning to GCSE standard in order that students can manage their studies and the assumed knowledge within course content.