The LICQual Level 6 Diploma in Medicinal Chemistry (D Medicinal Chemistry) is a highly specialized qualification designed for professionals seeking to advance their expertise in the field of drug design, discovery, and development. This programme focuses on the scientific principles and advanced methodologies that drive pharmaceutical innovation, providing learners with a deeper understanding of the chemistry behind modern medicines.
This qualification is not intended for fresh candidates, but is tailored for professionals who already have experience within pharmaceutical sciences, chemistry, biotechnology, or related fields. It aims to support career progression by equipping learners with advanced knowledge, technical skills, and critical thinking required to contribute to the development of safer and more effective therapeutic agents. Additionally, the diploma strengthens a learner’s Continuing Professional Development (CPD) by bridging scientific knowledge with real-world pharmaceutical applications.
The course content covers a wide range of essential topics, including organic and inorganic medicinal chemistry, drug synthesis, pharmacodynamics, pharmacokinetics, and the application of computational tools in drug discovery. By mastering these areas, learners will be able to contribute meaningfully to pharmaceutical research, regulatory compliance, and innovative healthcare solutions.
Centres delivering this qualification must ensure that competent and highly qualified staff are available to deliver the training effectively. In addition, centres should provide access to the necessary materials, laboratory facilities, and learning resources required to guarantee high-quality education and learner success.
By completing this diploma, learners will gain the expertise needed to expand their career opportunities, strengthen their professional standing, and contribute to the global advancement of medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical sciences.
Course Overview
Qualification Title
LICQual Level 6 Diploma in Medicinal Chemistry (D Medicinal Chemistry)
Total Units
6
Total Credits
120
GLH
480
Qualification #
LICQ2201207
Qualification Specification
To enroll in the LICQual Level 6 Diploma in Medicinal Chemistry (D Medicinal Chemistry), applicants must meet the following criteria:
|
Qualification# |
Unit Title |
Credits |
GLH |
|---|---|---|---|
|
LICQ2201207-1 |
Advanced Principles of Medicinal Chemistry |
20 |
80 |
|
LICQ2201207-2 |
Organic and Inorganic Drug Design |
20 |
80 |
|
LICQ2201207-3 |
Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics |
20 |
80 |
|
LICQ2201207-4 |
Computational and Analytical Techniques in Drug Discovery |
20 |
80 |
|
LICQ2201207-5 |
Toxicology and Safety in Drug Development |
20 |
80 |
|
LICQ2201207-6 |
Research Methods and Professional Practice in Medicinal Chemistry |
20 |
80 |
By the end of this course, learners will be able to:
Unit 1: Advanced Principles of Medicinal Chemistry
- Demonstrate a deep understanding of drug discovery processes and structure–activity relationships (SAR).
- Apply advanced principles of molecular interactions to explain drug action.
- Critically evaluate the role of medicinal chemistry in modern healthcare solutions.
Unit 2: Organic and Inorganic Drug Design
- Analyse the chemical synthesis of both organic and inorganic drug molecules.
- Design drug compounds with improved therapeutic activity and reduced toxicity.
- Evaluate strategies for developing innovative compounds to address emerging health challenges.
Unit 3: Pharmacokinetics and Pharmacodynamics
- Explain the processes of absorption, distribution, metabolism, and excretion (ADME) of drugs.
- Assess how pharmacodynamic principles influence therapeutic effectiveness and safety.
- Interpret dose–response data to inform clinical decision-making.
Unit 4: Computational and Analytical Techniques in Drug Discovery
- Apply computational chemistry and molecular modelling techniques to drug design.
- Utilise analytical methods to characterise and optimise pharmaceutical compounds.
- Integrate bioinformatics tools into the drug discovery and development process.
Unit 5: Toxicology and Safety in Drug Development
- Assess principles of toxicology relevant to medicinal chemistry and drug safety.
- Evaluate preclinical testing methods to ensure drug candidates meet ethical standards.
- Critically analyse risk–benefit considerations in the drug development pipeline.
Unit 6: Research Methods and Professional Practice in Medicinal Chemistry
- Conduct independent scientific research using appropriate methodologies.
- Produce professional scientific reports and research publications.
- Demonstrate professional ethics, critical thinking, and reflective practice in medicinal chemistry.
The LICQual Level 6 Diploma in Medicinal Chemistry (D Medicinal Chemistry) is specifically designed for experienced professionals who want to expand their knowledge, refine their technical skills, and advance their careers in the pharmaceutical and scientific sectors. This qualification is not aimed at fresh candidates but is tailored for individuals who are already working in relevant fields and are committed to enhancing their Continuing Professional Development (CPD).
This course is ideal for:
- Pharmaceutical Scientists and Chemists who are engaged in drug research, synthesis, or development and wish to advance their expertise in medicinal chemistry.
- Clinical Researchers and Laboratory Professionals seeking to strengthen their understanding of pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics, and drug safety.
- Regulatory Affairs Specialists who need deeper insights into drug development, toxicology, and compliance with international pharmaceutical standards.
- Healthcare and Biotechnology Professionals aiming to broaden their scientific knowledge and contribute to innovation in therapeutic drug development.
- Academics and Researchers in chemistry, biochemistry, or pharmaceutical sciences who are looking to enhance their credentials and research capabilities.
- Learners committed to CPD and motivated to take on senior roles in research, development, or regulatory functions within the pharmaceutical industry.
By enrolling in this diploma, learners can gain advanced knowledge, practical insights, and internationally relevant skills that will enable them to play a key role in shaping the future of medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical innovation.
Centres delivering the LICQual Level 6 Diploma in Medicinal Chemistry (D Medicinal Chemistry) must ensure they meet the highest standards of teaching, assessment, and learner support. To guarantee a professional learning experience, centres are expected to have qualified staff, appropriate facilities, and sufficient resources that align with international academic and industry standards.
Essential requirements include:
- Qualified and Experienced Staff – Trainers, assessors, and mentors must hold relevant academic qualifications and professional expertise in medicinal chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or related disciplines.
- Access to Specialist Learning Resources – Centres must provide learners with up-to-date study materials, research publications, digital platforms, and reference resources to support effective learning.
- Laboratory and Practical Facilities – Adequate laboratory spaces, scientific equipment, and technological tools should be available to facilitate practical application of advanced medicinal chemistry concepts.
- Robust Quality Assurance – Centres must implement strong internal quality assurance systems to maintain consistent delivery, fair assessment practices, and learner success.
- Learner Support Services – Academic guidance, mentoring, and career development support must be provided to help learners achieve their professional goals.
- Commitment to CPD – Centres should actively promote Continuing Professional Development (CPD) for both staff and learners to ensure alignment with evolving pharmaceutical and scientific standards.
By fulfilling these requirements, centres can deliver a high-quality educational experience that equips learners with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to excel in medicinal chemistry and pharmaceutical research.
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.
