Study is available in one of the School's theme areas, clinical pharmacy/pharmacology, pharmacy practice, pharmaceutical sciences or chemical ecology and toxicology. Proposed topics for research can be found on the School's website, and supervisors areas of interest are listed under academic staff entries. New postgraduate students usually begin by discussing possible research topics with members of academic staff, although some students come with their own proposal. The aim is to identify a project which is worth investigating, is within the capabilities of the School and suits the interests and career plans of the student. Once a suitable project and academic supervisor are found, the detailed work can proceed.

In addition to the principal goal of carrying out the research project, postgraduate students benefit from participating in the wider intellectual life of the School (and the University). This includes School seminars, given by honours and postgraduate students, academic staff, visiting lecturers and occasional conferences and short courses. These activities provide an essential broadening experience to offset the intense specialisation inherent in working on any one particular research problem.