Master of Pharmacy

This course is structured to give you a clear, practical understanding of pharmacy from the ground up.

You’ll complete 48 credit points across core units that cover:

• The science of medicines, including chemistry and pharmacology.
• How medicines affect the human body.
• Clinical decision making and patient care.
• Pharmacy practice in community and hospital settings.
• Research and evidence-based healthcare.

Your study will combine lectures, lab work and case-based learning, so you’re applying theory as you go. You’ll also complete placements alongside your units, building experience in real pharmacy environments. If you’ve completed postgraduate research training, you may be able to include an elective in place of a research unit, with approval.

As the need for personalised healthcare continues to grow, so does the demand for pharmacists who can work confidently with people from all backgrounds. With a Master of Pharmacy from UC, you'll step into this space with strong clinical knowledge and practical experience. Graduates are well prepared for a range of roles across the sector, including positions in private and government pharmaceutical organisations.

With UC's Master of Pharmacy, you'll gain the expertise to advance into roles such as:

• Community Pharmacist
• Hospital Pharmacist
• Clinical Pharmacist
• Pharmaceutical industry roles such as Research Scientist
• Regulatory, policy and government pharmacy roles such as Regulatory Affairs Officer or Pharmacovigilance Associate
• Medication Safety Pharmacist
• Pharmacy research or academic pathways
• Further study or specialisation such as research.

To apply for a Master of Pharmacy at UC, you'll need:

• A bachelor's degree in any discipline with a credit average or higher, and
• At least one unit of degree-level study in five of the following areas:
  • Chemistry
  • Biochemistry
  • Microbiology
  • Anatomy
  • Physiology
  • Pharmacology.

As part of the course, you'll complete clinical placements in real healthcare settings, where you'll apply what you're learning in practice. Before starting these placements, you'll need to meet a few requirements, including a National Police Check, Working with Vulnerable People registration, immunisation records and current First Aid and CPR certification. These steps help ensure you're ready to work safely with patients.

If you’re a domestic student, you may be eligible for financial support to help manage the cost of your degree.

A Commonwealth Supported Place (CSP) means the Australian Government pays part of your tuition fees, so you contribute a reduced amount. For the Master of Pharmacy, CSPs are limited and offered based on academic merit and cut-offs apply, so it’s worth applying early.

If you receive a CSP or a full-fee place, you may also be able to access FEE‑HELP. This is a government loan scheme that lets you defer paying your tuition fees until your income reaches a certain level.

Together, these options can make postgraduate study more manageable, so you can focus on building your skills and getting ready for what comes next.

At UC, learning is grounded in real practice. You won’t just study pharmaceutical theory, you’ll apply it in clinical settings, guided by industry experts. With our state-of-the-art facilities here on campus, case-based learning and placements, you’ll apply what you’re learning in situations that reflect real pharmacy work. By the time you graduate, you’ll have the knowledge, skills and confidence to succeed. 

This course is designed for people who already have a bachelor’s degree and are ready to move into pharmacy, whether you’ve studied a related science discipline or you’re looking to change direction.

If your plans change, there’s also an alternative exit point. You may be able to graduate earlier with a Graduate Certificate in Health Studies, depending on the units you’ve completed. It’s a flexible pathway that lets you start fresh while keeping your options open.

UC's Master of Pharmacy gives you a clear and practical pathway to set yourself up for success. The course is accredited by the Australian Pharmacy Council, so you know you're working towards a recognised pathway to registration and practice in Australia.

Most graduates go on to become registered pharmacists. That could mean working in a community pharmacy, where you support people day to day with medicines, advice and ongoing care. Or in a hospital, working alongside doctors and nurses to make sure treatments are safe and effective.

You're not limited to those settings though. With a Master of Pharmacy, you can also move into areas like:

• Research and clinical trials.
• The pharmaceutical industry.
• Regulatory or policy roles.
• Public health and health promotion.
• Rural and remote healthcare, where your impact is immediate and visible.

What ties these paths together is the role you play in people's lives. You're helping someone manage a chronic condition, or making sure a treatment is right for them or you're part of decisions that directly affect health and wellbeing.

If you want a career that's practical, people-focused and grounded in science, UC's Master of Pharmacy sets you up for exactly that.

Postgraduate study is an investment in your future, and at UC, there’s support to make it more affordable. UC’s Master of Pharmacy offers Commonwealth Supported Places for domestic students, which means the government can subsidise part of your fees, reducing the overall cost (conditions apply). FEE-HELP is also available; an Australian Government loan that provides additional financial support. More information can be found on our Domestic fees and costs page. 

There are also scholarships available for both new and continuing students, helping with expenses like fees, textbooks, accommodation and living costs. Whether you’re a domestic or international student, you may be eligible for financial assistance. 

Visit our scholarships page to explore your options and learn how UC can help you afford postgraduate study.

At UC, we’re here to help you succeed! Once you’re ready to apply to UC, our process depends on your student type and course. You can find all the requirements, criteria and processes on the Apply to UC page.

If you have further questions or would like assistance with your application, we encourage you to book a consult to receive personalised guidance and support.