The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in drug discovery represents a transformative advancement in biomedical sciences. This field promises to enhance the efficiency, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness of discovering new therapeutic agents. Pursuing this Master's in Drug Discovery with AI offers a unique opportunity to be at the forefront of this exciting convergence of disciplines. The University of Liverpool, renowned for its pioneering research, provides an ideal environment to acquire the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in this innovative domain.
The masters in Drug Discovery with AI course aims to provide students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in the field of drug discovery and AI. The course will cover various aspects, including medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, molecular biology, bioinformatics and the utility of artificial intelligence, and drug development. This will equip graduates for careers in pharmaceutical research and development, who wish to do this either through direct entry into industry or as a pathway to a PhD. The degree will culminate in a collaborative research project giving students a real taste of the multidisciplinary drug discovery process enabled by significant input from our industrial partners. This masters in Drug Discovery with AI is designed to provide a holistic and practical education that prepares students for a successful career in the dynamic field of drug discovery. You will be taught by two world leading departments, Pharmacology and Therapeutics and the department of Chemistry. Both departments are ranked top 40 in the world and have been recognized with the Queen’s Prize for their sector leading teaching and research. This programme will be taught through multiple delivery modes (lectures, tutorials, workshops, group work, practical work) with active learning being central to its delivery.
This programme is designed for students with a degree in a relevant Biology or Chemistry related subject. This includes (but is not restricted to) Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Biochemistry, Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, Biomedical Sciences. It aims to develop students skills and knowledge to drive innovation in drug discovery, ultimately contributing to the development of new therapies and improving global health outcomes.
• To develop students understanding of the roles of medicinal chemistry, pharmacology and AI in drug discovery.
• Instil in students a sense of enthusiasm for drug discovery and AI, an appreciation of its application in different contexts and to involve them in an intellectually stimulating and satisfying experience of learning and studying.
• Provide students with a broad and balanced foundation of drug discovery and AI knowledge, computational and practical skills.
• To develop in students the ability to apply their knowledge and skills to the solution of theoretical and practical problems within drug discovery.
• To develop in students, a range of transferable skills, of value in pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical employment.
• To provide students with a knowledge and skills base from which they can proceed to further studies in drug discovery and AI or other multi-disciplinary areas within drug development.
• To generate in students an appreciation of the importance of pharmacology, drug discovery and AI in an industrial, economic, environmental and social context.
Discover what you'll learn, what you'll study, and how you'll be taught and assessed.
Semester 1 compulsory modules:
BIOS769 Fundamentals of drug discovery
CHEM521 Chemical AI Applications in Drug Discovery
BIOS768 Introduction to Research in Drug discovery
Modules listed are subject to approval – the full module structure for this course will be available soon.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Semester 2 compulsory modules:
BIOS768 Introduction to Research in Drug Discovery
BIOS770 Accelerating Drug discovery using AI in Biology
CHEM522 Advanced drug Discovery
Semester 2 optional modules:
LIFE764 Experimental Medicine and clinical Pharmacology
LIFE754 Proteomics Metabolomics and Data Analysis
LIFE732 Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Vaccines
LIFE766 Frontiers in Drug Discovery and Advanced Therapeutics
Modules listed are subject to approval – the full module structure for this course will be available soon.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
CHEM526 Collaborative Research Project
Modules listed are subject to approval – the full module structure for this course will be available soon.
Programme details and modules listed are illustrative only and subject to change.
Teaching on this programme is delivered through a variety of methods from weekly lectures to regular workshops and active learning methods such as seminars, practical’s, problem solving exercises and opportunities for discussion.
In the final semester students will undertake a research project. Each student will have their own independent piece of research and role that will contribute towards a larger collaborative project assigned to small groups of students aimed to replicate how multidisciplinary teams work in drug discovery. The assessment methods will encompass practical work, written report, group presentation and pitch.
Assessment strategies will ensure that students can demonstrate their knowledge and skills by a variety of various methods, e.g. coursework, teamwork, presentation, summative assessment, dissertation writing, oral examination, etc.
All assessments are authentic, meaning students will engage in the simulation of real-world scenarios in hands-on, workshop and project-driven assessments to demonstrate their ability to apply technologies and address challenges in Drug Discovery with AI.
We have a distinctive approach to education, the Liverpool Curriculum Framework, which focuses on research-connected teaching, active learning, and authentic assessment to ensure our students graduate as digitally fluent and confident global citizens.
The Liverpool Curriculum framework sets out our distinctive approach to education. Our teaching staff support our students to develop academic knowledge, skills, and understanding alongside our graduate attributes:
Our curriculum is characterised by the three Liverpool Hallmarks:
All this is underpinned by our core value of inclusivity and commitment to providing a curriculum that is accessible to all students.
Day to day students will undertake interactive lectures, practicals, coursework, workshops, teamwork, problem-solving exercises and a research project. Research connected teaching will be a key component to all the modules delivered. The student learning journey throughout their studies is progressive and coherent giving them a fascinating insight into the drug discovery process and AI.
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The demand for professionals skilled in AI and drug discovery is rapidly increasing, driven by the need for more efficient drug development processes. Graduates with expertise in this area are highly sought after by pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, research institutions, and regulatory agencies. The UK’s robust job market and its position as a leader in both AI and pharmaceutical research provide numerous opportunities for career advancement. Additionally, the skills acquired during the program, such as data analysis, machine learning, and computational modelling, are transferable to various other sectors, enhancing employability.
A masters in AI and Drug Discovery in the UK offers an unparalleled opportunity to gain a comprehensive education and practical experience in a cutting-edge field. The combination of academic excellence, research opportunities, industry connections, interdisciplinary learning, and global perspectives makes the UK an ideal destination for pursuing advanced studies in this domain. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to drive innovation in drug discovery, ultimately contributing to the development of new therapies and improving global health outcomes.
An MSc in Drug Discovery with AI offers a combination of specialized skills highly sought after in both the pharma and tech industries. It provides opportunities to be part of the future of medicine, driving innovation in how we develop and bring new therapies to patients. Possible onward careers include:
Major Employers in these areas include:
Our campus Career Studio is a space for students and graduates to drop into and talk to a career coach. Career coaches are highly trained to help no matter what stage you are at in your career planning. You can access support to find and apply for full-time and part-time roles, placements, internships and graduate schemes. You will also find the help you need if you have a start-up idea or want to create a business plan. You can explore the world of work, prepare for job interviews, and access careers events and workshops. The Career Studio is open Monday to Friday from 10am-5pm, simply drop in at a time that works for you.
We develop our programmes with employers in mind. You will be supported to enhance your long-term employment prospects as you learn. We do this by exposing you to professionals, a variety of sectors and supporting you to work collaboratively with others to develop transferable skills. You are equipped with a clearer view of what to focus on in your area of interest, and to reflect on your studies. Our digital employability tools give you a tech-enhanced curriculum experience and make it easy for you to prepare for the world of work. You can use tools like the Handshake platform to connect with employers and message the Career Studio 24/7.
You can start building good professional networks by attending events and employability activities. Our events are designed to develop your skills and expose you to many different employers, as well as to help you make contacts in your field. We help you improve your confidence when speaking to employers and give you access to unique opportunities. Our networking events also boost your understanding of the competencies and skills that employers are looking for in their recruitment process, giving you a competitive edge.
Your tuition fees, funding your studies, and other costs to consider.
Full-time place, per year - £14,100
Part-time place, per year - £7,050
Full-time place, per year - £29,100
Part-time place, per year - £14,550
Fees stated are for the 2025-26 academic year.
Tuition fees cover the cost of your teaching and assessment, operating facilities such as libraries, IT equipment, and access to academic and personal support.
You can pay your tuition fees in instalments.
All or part of your tuition fees can be funded by external sponsorship.
International applicants who accept an offer of a place will need to pay a tuition fee deposit.
If you're a UK national, or have settled status in the UK, you may be eligible to apply for a Postgraduate Loan worth up to £12,167 to help with course fees and living costs. Learn more about paying for your studies..
We understand that budgeting for your time at university is important, and we want to make sure you understand any course-related costs that are not covered by your tuition fee. This could include buying a laptop, books, or stationery.
Find out more about the additional study costs that may apply to this course.
We offer a range of scholarships and bursaries that could help pay your tuition and living expenses.
If you’re a UK student, either born in or with strong family connections to Merseyside, you could be eligible to apply for a fee discount of up to £4,500. You’ll need to demonstrate an active interest in global, community and environmental issues to be considered.
If you’re a UK University of Liverpool graduate joining a master’s degree with us, you could be eligible to receive £3,000 off your tuition fees. You must have graduated in the last two years and received a widening access scholarship during your undergraduate studies.
Apply to receive tailored training support to enhance your sporting performance. Our athlete support package includes a range of benefits, from bespoke strength and conditioning training to physiotherapy sessions and one-to-one nutritional advice.
The qualifications and exam results you'll need to apply for this course.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| Postgraduate entry requirements | We accept a 2:2 honours degree from a UK university, or an equivalent academic qualification from a similar non-UK institution. This degree should be in a relevant Biology or Chemistry related subject. This includes (but is not restricted to) Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Biotechnology, Material Sciences, Biochemistry, Genetics, Life Sciences, Natural Sciences or Biomedical Sciences. |
| International qualifications |
Many countries have a different education system to that of the UK, meaning your qualifications may not meet our entry requirements. Completing your Foundation Certificate, such as that offered by the University of Liverpool International College, means you're guaranteed a place on your chosen course. |
You'll need to demonstrate competence in the use of English language, unless you’re from a majority English speaking country.
We accept a variety of international language tests and country-specific qualifications.
International applicants who do not meet the minimum required standard of English language can complete one of our Pre-Sessional English courses to achieve the required level.
| Qualification | Details |
|---|---|
| IELTS | 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0 |
Do you need to complete a Pre-sessional English course to meet the English language requirements for this course?
The length of Pre-sessional English course you’ll need to take depends on your current level of English language ability.
If you don’t meet our English language requirements, we can use your most recent IELTS score, or the equivalent score in selected other English language tests, to determine the length of Pre-sessional English course you require.
Use the table below to check the course length you're likely to require for your current English language ability and see whether the course is available on campus or online.
| Your most recent IELTS score | Pre-sessional English course length | On campus or online |
|---|---|---|
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 6.0 | 6 weeks | On campus |
| 6.0 overall, with no component below 5.5 | 10 weeks | On campus and online options available |
| 6.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 | 12 weeks | On campus and online options available |
| 5.5 overall, with no more than one component below 5.5, and no component below 5.0 | 20 weeks | On campus |
| 5.0 overall, with no more than one component below 5.0, and no component below 4.5 | 30 weeks | On campus |
| 4.5 overall, with no more than one component below 4.5, and no component below 4.0 | 40 weeks | On campus |
If you’ve completed an alternative English language test to IELTS, we may be able to use this to assess your English language ability and determine the Pre-sessional English course length you require.
Please see our guide to Pre-sessional English entry requirements for IELTS 6.5 overall, with no component below 6.0, for further details.
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Last updated 11 November 2024 / / Programme terms and conditions