Learn the science behind how and why medicines work, and what can improve patient's treatment, with this free online course.
Duration
6 weeksWeekly study
3 hours
The Science of Medicines
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The world’s growing population faces major health issues, and medicines are a primary pillar to effect better health. Learn about the science of key medicines used to manage heart disease, depression, diabetes, pain control and smoking cessation.
Week by week you will study a new medicine and health area, starting by looking through the eyes of an affected patient. You will learn the mechanics of a disease and how it affects the world’s population. You will then delve into the science of the medicine to explore the medicine’s chemistry, how it works in the body and why it is formulated in a certain way to become the medicine you see on the pharmacy shelf.
This course is designed by a team of experts who focus on improving education for pharmacy students at Monash University, Australia. As pharmacists and scientists they bridge the interface between science and the patient. The course will be particularly relevant for those who care for people affected by the conditions covered, as it will bring practical patient tips drawn from the understanding of the science.
You can read more about this course on the FutureLearn blog.
Learning on this course
On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.
Who is the course for?
No previous knowledge is necessary. Supporting references will be provided for extra background where needed.
What do people say about this course?
Who will you learn with?
Ian is a Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences at Monash University. He is widely recognised for his innovations in student learning in the pharmaceutical sciences.
Who developed the course?
Established
1958Location
Melbourne, AustraliaWorld ranking
Top 60Source: QS World University Rankings 2021
Learning on FutureLearn
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- Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores
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- Experience the power of social learning, and get inspired by an international network of learners
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