Learn about the science behind formulating new products, from pharmaceuticals to paints, on Europe’s first Master’s in Formulation Science course.
This accredited MSc in Formulation Science gives you a strong understanding of how different ingredients interact to create effective finished products. Using real examples from the pharmaceutical sector and the expertise of our academic team, you will explore how formulation components influence stability, performance and quality—and how these principles can be applied across industries such as pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, agrochemicals and consumer goods.
Throughout the course, you will gain extensive hands‑on laboratory experience, building practical, analytical and research skills that support your professional development. You will also benefit from industry insight through guest lectures and specialist teaching sessions delivered each year by colleagues from leading companies including Pfizer, GSK, Novo Nordisk and Merck/Procter & Gamble. These sessions give you direct exposure to current industrial practices, challenges and innovations.
Graduates progress into roles such as formulation scientist, product development scientist, analytical scientist, research associate and quality specialist. Many secure positions in pharmaceutical, cosmetic, chemical, personal care, food technology and agrochemical companies, while others continue into further research or PhD study, supported by the strong scientific grounding provided by the programme.
Students benefit from secure university accommodation located on or near campus, creating a comfortable and supporting living environment. The active Students’ Union offers events, societies and dedicated support services, helping you feel part of a vibrant and welcoming community.
September; January
£11,800 /£18,700
This course is being refreshed for 2026/7 building-in employability, real-world problem solving skills, and wellbeing initiatives for a future-focused learning experience. Modules shown are indicative topics and will be updated in Spring 2026.
This course is being refreshed for 2026/7 to offer a more inclusive, impactful and future-focused learning experience. Modules shown are indicative topics and will be updated in Spring 2026.
Our programme team and other contributors to the course are globally recognised specialists in their fields. Colleagues from industry (e.g. Pfizer, GSK, Novo Nordisk, Merck/Proctor & Gamble) deliver guest lectures each year as well as industry-relevant teaching sessions and seminars.
We are offering virtual events so you can still experience how Greenwich could be the right university for you.
To find out more about our Open Days and Campus Tours or if you need any assistance, please email opendays@gre.ac.uk.
An undergraduate (honours) degree at 2:2, or above, in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy or Pharmaceutical Science.
Applicants without a degree that have relevant professional experience may be considered.
Applicants from other backgrounds may be considered.
For more information, use our contact form or call us on 020 8331 9000.
You can also read our admissions policy.
Yes
Find out more on our Recognition of Prior Learning pages.
This course is taught by lectures, seminars, workshops and lab-based exercises, with the use of practical case studies. You'll gain teamwork experience to simulate an industrial setting as well as the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities which are important for modern pharmaceutical / formulation practice.
For specialist modules, our classes are typically limited to 40 students in lab sessions and larger numbers in common lectures. Specialist labs allow hands-on experience across a range of techniques and all modules have a practical element.
Our courses are designed to give you the space for exploratory and independent study. You'll work towards individual and group assignments and undertake the preparation / follow-up work associated with lectures, seminars, integrative assignments and laboratory classes.
We encourage students to take advantage of a range of related extra-curricular opportunities available within the university and elsewhere.
If you are studying full-time, you should expect the workload to be similar to a full-time job. For part-time students, this will reduce in proportion with the number of courses you are studying.
Students will be assessed through a variety of methods, such as:
University policy is to give feedback on assignments within 15 working days of the coursework submission date.
Examination results will be available within 28 days.
Each academic year runs from September to June. You can begin the course in September or January.
Full teaching timetables are not usually available until term has started. For any queries, please call 020 8331 9000.
University is a great investment in your future. English-domiciled graduate annual salaries were £10,500 more than non-graduates in 2023 - and the UK Government projects that 88% of new jobs by 2035 will be at graduate level.
(Source: DfE Graduate labour market statistics: 2023/DfE Labour market and skills projections: 2020 to 2035).
| Cohort | Full time | Part time | Distance learning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home | £11,800 | £1,967 per 30 credits | N/A |
| International | £18,700 | £3,117 per 30 credits | N/A |
Whether you choose to live in halls of residence or rent privately, we can help you find what you're looking for. University accommodation is available from £126.35 per person per week (bills included), depending on your location and preferences. If you require more space or facilities, these options are available at a slightly higher cost.
We offer a wide range of financial help including scholarships and bursaries.
International students can apply for the International Scholarship Award, which is a single year tuition fee discount up to £3,000 if they hold an offer to study at the University of Greenwich for September 2026.
International Scholarship Award
£3,000 bursary for home fee paying University of Greenwich final year undergraduate students and Alumni.
Following the UK's departure from the European Union, we are supporting new EU students by offering a substantial fee-reduction for studying.
We want your time at university to be enjoyable, rewarding, and free of unnecessary stress, so planning your finances before you come to university can help to reduce financial concerns. We can offer advice on living costs and budgeting, as well as on awards, allowances and loans.
Our Formulation Science graduates have gone on to develop successful careers in a wide range of industrial sectors, from the pharmaceutical sciences to aggrochemical and consumer goods.
They have gone on to work for major multinational companies as well as thrive at specialist enterprises. Some have also progressed to research and PhDs.
We have a team dedicated to enhancing student employment outcomes. This includes an Employer Partnerships Manager, who works with companies to provide placement and employment opportunities.
Our team will also help you understand the jobs market, produce effective CVs, and prepare for a graduate job and placement applications in your final year.
Our Medway halls of residence are all located on-campus, with facilities include an on-site café, launderette and bar. And the halls are located within minutes of the historic Chatham dockyard and Chatham and Gillingham town centres.
With student-run social events, modern ensuite rooms and communal shared spaces, you’ll find that living in halls of residence will be a highlight of your University of Greenwich experience.
Rooms start at £172.06/wk and include Wi-Fi, utility bills and 24-hour residential support. Our Medway accommodation boasts 350 rooms with 24/7 security, and resident car parking permits are available.
We allocate you a personal tutor, who you meet soon after you join the department. Their role is to support your personal and academic development and act as your point of contact for queries or problems.
We've got plenty of other courses for you to choose from. Browse our postgraduate courses or check our related courses below.....
Our courses explore the essentials of pharmaceutical science, formulation science, pharmacology, biology, biochemistry, chemistry and drug discovery and delivery. Students will gain practical experience through labs and final year research projects.
Visit our pharmaceutical science degrees page.
Whatever subject you’re into, from human health to climate change, our supportive learning environment will prepare you for your future career. Many of our courses are accredited by professional bodies.
Visit our science degrees page.
Interested in studying a science subject? From pharmacy to forensics, we have so much to offer. Catch a glimpse of the opportunities available to you.
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