The LICQual Level 3 Certificate in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Cert Pharmaceutical Sciences) is a specialised qualification designed for professionals seeking to enhance their expertise in the field of pharmaceutical sciences. This course provides learners with a comprehensive understanding of the principles of pharmaceutical science, including drug development, formulation, quality control, and the safe handling of medicinal products. It is ideal for individuals aiming to advance their career, expand their professional knowledge, and strengthen their Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
Learners will explore key topics such as the chemistry of medicines, pharmacokinetics, pharmaceutical technology, and regulatory frameworks, enabling them to develop practical skills that are directly applicable to laboratory, clinical, and industrial settings. The programme combines theoretical learning with practical application, ensuring learners gain confidence and competence in pharmaceutical processes and safety standards.
LICQual places a strong emphasis on high-quality training. Centres delivering this qualification must have competent and qualified staff, along with access to all necessary resources and materials, to provide a structured, engaging, and supportive learning environment. This ensures that learners receive the knowledge, skills, and guidance needed to achieve professional success and make informed decisions in pharmaceutical practice.
By completing the LICQual Level 3 Certificate in Pharmaceutical Sciences, learners not only enhance their professional expertise but also position themselves for new career opportunities in pharmaceutical research, production, clinical practice, and quality assurance. This qualification is an essential step for committed professionals aiming to excel in the rapidly evolving field of pharmaceutical sciences.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
LICQual Level 3 Certificate in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Cert Pharmaceutical Sciences)
Total Units
6
Total Credits
24
GLH
120
Qualification #
LICQ2201127
Qualification Specification
To enroll in the LICQual Level 3 Certificate in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Cert Pharmaceutical Sciences), applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
Qualification# |
Unit Title |
Credits |
GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LICQ2201127-1 |
Introduction to Pharmaceutical Sciences |
4 |
20 |
|
LICQ2201127-2 |
Pharmaceutical Chemistry |
4 |
20 |
|
LICQ2201127-3 |
Pharmacology and Drug Action |
4 |
20 |
|
LICQ2201127-4 |
Pharmaceutical Technology and Formulation |
4 |
20 |
|
LICQ2201127-5 |
Quality Assurance, Regulation, and Safety |
4 |
20 |
|
LICQ2201127-6 |
Professional Development and CPD in Pharmaceutical Sciences |
4 |
20 |
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
Unit 1: Introduction to Pharmaceutical Sciences
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain the scope and key principles of pharmaceutical sciences
- Describe the roles and responsibilities of professionals in pharmaceutical and healthcare settings
- Analyse the importance of pharmaceutical sciences in healthcare and industry
Unit 2: Pharmaceutical Chemistry
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate knowledge of chemical properties of active pharmaceutical ingredients
- Explain chemical reactions relevant to drug formulation
- Apply principles of pharmaceutical chemistry to the development of medicines
Unit 3: Pharmacology and Drug Action
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain mechanisms of drug action and interaction
- Analyse pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic principles
- Apply knowledge of therapeutic uses and adverse effects to clinical and laboratory settings
Unit 4: Pharmaceutical Technology and Formulation
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Demonstrate understanding of drug formulation processes and dosage forms
- Apply principles of pharmaceutical manufacturing and quality control
- Evaluate production techniques for safety, efficacy, and compliance with standards
Unit 5: Quality Assurance, Regulation, and Safety
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Explain regulatory requirements and quality assurance principles in pharmaceutical sciences
- Identify risks and implement safety measures in laboratory and production settings
- Demonstrate knowledge of Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and compliance standards
Unit 6: Professional Development and CPD in Pharmaceutical Sciences
By the end of this unit, learners will be able to:
- Reflect on personal practice and identify areas for professional growth
- Develop a plan for continuous professional development (CPD) in pharmaceutical sciences
- Apply ethical principles and professional standards in practical scenarios
The LICQual Level 3 Certificate in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Cert Pharmaceutical Sciences) is designed for individuals who want to specialize in the science of medicines, drug formulation, and pharmaceutical research. This course is ideal for pharmacy assistants, technicians, healthcare professionals, and students seeking to develop expertise in pharmaceutical sciences. It equips learners with practical knowledge, analytical skills, and industry-relevant competencies to excel in clinical, research, and pharmacy-related roles.
Pharmacy Assistants and Technicians
- Gain foundational knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences
- Learn drug formulation and medication preparation
- Understand safety and quality standards in pharmacy
- Support pharmacists in clinical and operational tasks
- Apply evidence-based practices in medication management
- Enhance employability in hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies
Pharmacists Seeking Professional Development
- Strengthen understanding of drug development and pharmacology
- Learn advanced techniques for quality control and formulation
- Improve patient safety and medication review skills
- Apply scientific principles to clinical and research settings
- Enhance credentials with a UK-recognized certificate
- Access flexible learning while continuing professional practice
Healthcare Professionals
- Understand the role of pharmaceutical sciences in patient care
- Gain skills in medication assessment and management
- Learn about pharmacokinetics and drug interactions
- Improve collaboration with multidisciplinary healthcare teams
- Apply evidence-based approaches in clinical practice
- Prepare for advanced roles in healthcare and pharmacy
Students and Graduates in Health Sciences
- Build foundational knowledge in pharmaceutical science
- Gain practical skills for labs, research, and clinical settings
- Prepare for further studies or advanced pharmacy qualifications
- Learn the science behind drug formulation and delivery
- Strengthen employability in healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors
- Develop critical thinking and analytical skills
Laboratory and Research Assistants
- Gain hands-on knowledge in drug formulation and analysis
- Learn quality control and laboratory safety protocols
- Support research projects in pharmaceutical development
- Understand regulatory requirements and documentation
- Improve laboratory efficiency and accuracy
- Prepare for roles in research institutions and pharmaceutical companies
International Healthcare and Pharmacy Practitioners
- Earn a UK-recognized certificate for global career mobility
- Adapt pharmaceutical knowledge to international standards
- Strengthen credentials for pharmacy or research roles abroad
- Access flexible online and blended learning options
- Join a global network of pharmaceutical professionals
- Expand career opportunities in clinical, research, and industry settings
Allied Health Professionals
- Understand integration of pharmaceutical sciences in patient care
- Learn principles of drug formulation and administration
- Support pharmacists in medication management
- Enhance skills in quality control and safety procedures
- Contribute effectively to multidisciplinary healthcare teams
- Strengthen professional portfolio with an accredited qualification
To ensure high-quality delivery and successful learner outcomes, centres offering the LICQual Level 3 Certificate in Pharmaceutical Sciences (Cert Pharmaceutical Sciences) must meet the following requirements:
- Qualified and Competent Staff: Centres must have instructors and assessors with relevant qualifications in pharmaceutical sciences, laboratory practice, or healthcare, and demonstrable professional experience.
- Comprehensive Learning Resources: Centres should provide up-to-date textbooks, reference materials, laboratory manuals, and access to digital learning platforms to support effective teaching and learning.
- Safe and Adequate Facilities: Learning environments must include well-equipped classrooms, laboratories, and, where applicable, clinical or industrial practice areas that comply with safety standards.
- Assessment and Monitoring Systems: Centres must implement robust processes to assess learners’ theoretical knowledge, practical skills, and competency in line with LICQual standards.
- Access to Practical Learning Opportunities: Where applicable, learners should have opportunities to engage in supervised laboratory work, clinical observation, or pharmaceutical practice to reinforce applied learning.
- Commitment to Quality and CPD: Centres must support continuous professional development for staff and maintain ongoing quality assurance processes to ensure learners achieve the highest standard of education and practical experience.
Meeting these requirements ensures that learners benefit from a structured, engaging, and high-standard learning experience, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary for career progression in pharmaceutical sciences.
Assessment and Verification
All units within this qualification are subject to internal assessment by the approved centre and external verification by LICQual. The qualification follows a criterion-referenced assessment approach, ensuring that learners meet all specified learning outcomes.
To achieve a ‘Pass’ in any unit, learners must provide valid, sufficient, and authentic evidence demonstrating their attainment of all learning outcomes and compliance with the prescribed assessment criteria. The Assessor is responsible for evaluating the evidence and determining whether the learner has successfully met the required standards.
Assessors must maintain a clear and comprehensive audit trail, documenting the basis for their assessment decisions to ensure transparency, consistency, and compliance with quality assurance requirements.
