University of Sheffield launches new pharmacy degree to strengthen NHS workforce

The university also offers an opportunity for qualified pharmacy technicians to gain a pharmacy degree

The University of Sheffield is launching a new four-year Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) degree programme, aimed at producing highly skilled pharmacists to boost the NHS workforce amid growing demand.

Set to begin in September 2025, the course combines a strong scientific foundation with a commitment to patient care, the university announced recently.

Students will gain hands-on experience through placements in community, hospital, and primary care settings, allowing them to apply their learning in real-world situations.

In addition, the university will offer a Master of Pharmacy with a Preparatory Year for qualified Pharmacy Technicians seeking to gain a Pharmacy degree.

“Our course is designed to produce graduates who are not only experts in medicines but also compassionate healthcare professionals who can make a real difference in people’s lives,” said Professor Susan Matthews, Head of Pharmacy at the University of Sheffield’s School of Allied Health Professions, Nursing and Midwifery.

A unique feature of the course is the “social accountability placement,” allowing students to work with over 130 community partners in the voluntary sector.

Osman Chohan, Chief Pharmacist and Chair of the Yorkshire and Humber Chief Pharmacists Network, noted that the programme will not only benefit Sheffield but also South Yorkshire and neighbouring regions.

“At a time when the NHS has significant workforce gaps and demand for NHS services is unrelenting, the prospect of a steady stream of highly skilled, highly trained pharmacists to support the local population is really exciting.”

He emphasised the important role pharmacists play in improving patient outcomes and reducing the risks associated with medications.

“Medicines are the most common intervention we make in the care of patients but medicines are not without their risks. Pharmacists are a critical part of ensuring patients get the best outcomes from their medicines whilst minimising risk and side effects,” Chohan stated.

The University of Sheffield is in the process of accrediting the programme with the General Pharmaceutical Council (GPhC), with provisional accreditation granted until the formal process is complete.