These courses are integrated in the curriculum. Besides these, mathematics, statistics and forensic pharmacy courses are offered as main professional courses. Pharmaceutical Chemistry emphasizes the application of the principles of basic chemistry to the study of drugs, their physico-chemical properties, structures and their relationship to biological activities. Analytical techniques for identification and quality control of drugs and some aspects of natural product chemistry are also covered. Pharmaceutical Technology provides the knowledge in pharmaceutical formulation and preparation, industrial processes, quality control, microbiological control besides biopharmacy and pharmacokinetic aspects.
Physiology provides knowledge of the function of the human body.
It forms the basis for the understanding of the action, uses of drugs and pathophysiology of diseases that are taught in clinical pharmacy. Pharmacology provides Knowledge concerning various types of drugs that are used in the treatment of diseases. Discussion related to absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, mechanism of action, uses and adverse effects are the main content of this discipline. To enable students to understand and acquire detailed knowledge pertaining to the role of a pharmacist in the clinical situation, students are required to participate in ward rounds at the Penang General Hospital. Ethics and Pharmacy Legislation Course is also provided to enable students to gain the necessary knowledge pertaining to ethics and legal responsibilities of a pharmacist.