Pharmacy Research Wales is multi-stakeholder collaboration established to develop a pharmacy research strategy for Wales and is led by the All Wales Chief Pharmacists Committee.
This section provides an overview of the research training and qualifications available to the pharmacy workforce in Wales. There are many types of research training, both formal and informal. Everyone will have their own training needs and research interests, so there is no ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach. Discuss your options with your line manager or mentor to ensure you have access to the resources and support you need.
Some higher education institutions and organisations provide short courses covering specific aspects of research methodology. Many courses do not require prior knowledge, although a general understanding of research methods is often helpful. Some short courses are free, but most attract a fee. Pre- or post-course work is not normally required as the learning is completed during the course. Most short courses provide a certificate of completion but are not usually considered formal qualifications.
Short courses and self-directed learning can be a great introduction to the basics of research methodology or a useful way to learn more about a specific area of research. For examples of training providers, see our Research Learning Compilation page.
Stand-alone Master’s level modules
Many universities offer Master’s level modules as a stand-alone option, allowing you to access subject-specific training without undertaking a full Master’s programme. Most modules will have some taught activities, such as lectures and seminars. These may be delivered remotely or in person. This will vary depending on the module and the institution, so you should check the requirements before you apply.
A Master’s level module is often described in terms of credits, each representing a certain number of study hours. A 10-credit module would typically involve around 100 hours of total work. A 20-credit module, around 200 hours of work, and so on. These hours will include all activities related to the module, for example, attending lectures and seminars, group work, portfolio building, assignments and assessments. It will also include time spent in independent study, such as reading, conducting research and preparing for lectures. Most modules will combine a mix of these activities, but at Master’s level, it is expected that a significant proportion of your time will be spent studying independently. Some programmes will allow you to combine credits from individual modules towards a full Master’s degree qualification.
In Wales, HEIW funding supports training from 10 credit modules up to MSc, with access either via E&T leads within NHS employed work places or directly through HEIW Pharmacy for NHS contractors. A set number of HEIW centrally funded places are available each year for the “Introduction to Research Methods for Healthcare Professionals [Cardiff School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences]” which are advertised via PRW R&D lead networks during the Autumn Term.
Stand-alone Master’s level modules are a great option for those who have identified a specific training need or want to explore an area of interest in depth. Entry requirements will vary depending on the host institution and the module. While many applicants for Master’s level modules will hold a relevant Bachelor’s level qualification, applications are considered on individual merit, and alternative qualifications can often be accepted. If in doubt, talk to the admissions officer for the module you are interested in.
Master’s Degrees
Master’s level degree programmes provide an opportunity to gain specialist skills and knowledge in an area of interest. They usually combine taught and research elements supporting critical thinking, analytical skills and specialist practical skills. A Master’s degree is typically completed over one to three years, depending on whether you study full or part-time.
In Wales, funding for a Master’s level qualification can be obtained through a Health and Care Research Wales Training Award (HCRW TA). To be eligible for this funding source, programmes must provide at least 80 credits of taught research. For further details on Master’s level qualifications, see our Research Learning Compilation page.
MPhil (Master of Philosophy)
An MPhil is a research degree, often used as a stepping stone to a PhD. Like a PhD, it involves significant independent research under the supervision of a team of experts. The supervisory team is usually led by an academic from the host university. Other supervisory team members may be experts in the field, such as healthcare professionals with a relevant scope of practice. MPhil research projects are usually undertaken over 1 to 2 years and presented as a written thesis.
There are several options for Doctoral level qualifications, depending on your career goals, field of study and preferred research approach. Doctoral candidates will often have completed a Master’s level qualification, although substantial professional experience may be an acceptable alternative. Completing a Doctoral level qualification is a great option for those who would like research to form a substantial part of their career and those on the Consultant pathway.
The type of doctoral-level qualification you hold may influence the funding streams you can access as a post-doctoral researcher. Seek guidance from an academic before committing to doctoral-level research training to ensure your chosen qualification will support your long-term research aspirations.
PhD (Doctor of Philosophy)
This qualification focuses on original research that contributes new knowledge to a specific field. A PhD typically involves 3 to 4 years of full-time study and is largely based on independent research, supervised by a team of experts. A PhD can also be undertaken part-time, usually over 6 to 8 years. PhD candidates will produce an in-depth written thesis and undertake a Viva Voce oral examination.
Professional Doctorate
A Professional Doctorate is designed for experienced professionals looking to develop advanced expertise, leadership, and research skills. The structure typically differs from a traditional PhD in its focus on practice-based research and professional development, integrating academic study and practical application. Research projects are usually conducted in the candidate’s professional setting, ensuring they directly inform and benefit professional practice. Most professional doctorates are offered part-time to allow candidates to continue working while studying.
A professional doctorate is often split into two components: a taught element and a research component. Taught elements usually cover research methods, advanced professional practice, leadership, ethics and governance. These are assessed through essays, reflective reports, presentations, or smaller research projects. The research component is independent practice-based research, addressing a real-world problem in the candidate’s sector. This component is usually presented as a written thesis. Like PhDs, Professional Doctorates often have a Viva Voce.
DPharm (Doctor of Pharmacy)
The DPharm is a professional doctorate aimed at practising pharmacists who want to advance their clinical practice, leadership, and research expertise. A major feature of DPharm programmes is the work-based research projects that align with the pharmacist’s clinical role. Several UK universities offer DPharm programmes. Each programme may have slightly different research and clinical emphases, but they share a common goal of advancing professional practice in pharmacy. There are currently no universities in Wales offering a DPharm qualification, however, there are courses available in England and Scotland.
PhD by publication
A PhD by publication is another route to earning a doctoral degree. Rather than submitting a single, traditional dissertation, candidates submit a collection of published works (articles, papers, books, or other peer-reviewed outputs) that form a coherent body of research. This route is typically aimed at experienced professionals or academics who have already produced significant research during their careers or are currently research active.
A PhD by publication has two main elements: published works and a critical commentary. The published works must address related themes or issues. The critical commentary ties together the published works, introducing the research topic, context and background, explaining the methodology and providing coherence. As with a thesis-based PhD, the written portfolio of publications and accompanying critical commentary will be submitted for examination by a panel of experts and defended in a Viva Voce.