Key facts
UNE unit code: PHAR120
*You are viewing the 2027 version of this unit which may be subject to change in future.
- Trimester 2 - Online
- Yes
- No
- Yes
- 6
Unit information
This unit introduces you to the foundational scientific principles underpinning pharmaceutical practice. You will develop essential knowledge in dosage forms, drug formulation, extemporaneous dispensing, drug delivery, and pharmaceutical calculations through a combination of theory and virtual learning experiences.
You’ll gain an understanding of the physicochemical properties of drugs, routes of administration, and dosage form design – and how these factors influence drug disposition. You’ll examine a range of dosage forms including tablets, capsules, solutions, and controlled-release technologies, while also gaining insight into medicine stability and efficacy.
Virtual exercises will provide you with experience in extemporaneous dispensing of different dosage forms, advancing your understanding of key concepts in drug pharmaceutical formulation and preparation. You will also build essential calculation skills required for pharmaceutical formulation, dosage determination, and compounding. By the end of the unit, you will have a strong foundation in pharmaceutical sciences, preparing you for more advanced study in clinical practice.
Offerings
For further information about UNE's teaching periods, please go to Principal Dates.
| Teaching period | Mode/location |
|---|---|
| Trimester 2 | Online |
*Offering is subject to availability
Intensive schools
There are no intensive schools required for this unit.
Enrolment rules
Notes
Please refer to the student handbook for current details on this unit.
Unit coordinator(s)
Learning outcomes
Upon completion of this unit, students will be able to:
- describe the key physiochemical principles underlying drug formulation, stability, and dosage form design;
- explain the relationship between drug properties or drug disposition and the route of administration;
- perform pharmaceutical calculations related to drug formulation, extemporaneous dispensing, and dosing accuracy;
- apply fundamental concepts to different dosage form design such as tablets, capsules, semi-solids and solutions;
- demonstrate practical skills in virtual and digital learning, including compounding, analysis, and data interpretation.
Assessment information
Assessments are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
| Title | Must Complete | Weight | Offerings | Assessment Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assessment 1 | Yes | 25% | All offerings | Five (5) quizzes worth 5% each |
| Assessment 2 | Yes | 25% | All offerings | Scientific Workbook No. Words: 1000 equivalent
|
| Assessment 3 - Assurance Task | Yes | 50% | All offerings | Final Examination. There is a supervised exam at the end of the teaching period in which you are enrolled. The exam will be offered online with supervision via webcam and screen sharing technology. Coordinated by UNE Exams Unit. To pass this unit, you must attempt this task and achieve a cumulative mark of at least 50% across all assessments. |
Learning resources
Textbooks are subject to change up to 8 weeks prior to the start of the teaching period in which you are undertaking the unit.
Note: Referenced material may be held in the University Library — purchase is optional.
Aulton's Pharmaceutics - The Design and Manufacture of Medicines
ISBN: 9780702081545
Aulton, M.E., Churchill Livingstone Elsevier 6th ed. 2021
Text refers to: All offerings
Excellence in experience, equity and employability
Five Stars,
20 Years in a Row
UNE is the only public uni in Australia awarded 20 straight years of five stars for Overall Experience.
Good Universities Guide 2007-2026
Five Stars for
Social Equity
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities nationally and is #1 in NSW for Social Equity.
Good Universities Guide 2026
Five Stars for
Graduate Employment
UNE rates among the top 20% of universities for Graduate Full-Time Employment and Starting Salary.
Good Universities Guide 2026 (Undergraduate)
Diamond-Rated Digital Learning
UNE’s leadership in digital learning earned the highest ‘Diamond’ rating in a peer review.
ASCILITE TELAS 2025
Studying online
At UNE we know it takes more than just being online to be a great online university. It takes time and experience. We pioneered distance education for working adults back in the 1950s, so we’ve been doing this longer than any other Australian university.
We understand the challenges faced by busy adults studying at home. We know that a vital part of online study is your engagement with the learning community. Communication with your classmates, teaching staff and university support staff will enhance your study experience and ensure that your skills extend beyond the subject matter. UNE’s teaching staff are experts in their field which is why UNE consistently receives five stars from students for teaching quality, support and overall experience.*
*The Good Universities Guide
Stay connected
Join our mailing list for updates and helpful tips to support your study plans. You can unsubscribe at any time.
- •Course updates and important changes as they happen
- •Key dates for intakes, deadlines, and enrolment steps
- •Application guidance, including supporting documentation requirements
- •Next steps and what to expect after you apply or enquire
Ready to stay in the loop?
GET IN TOUCH
Why study with us?
UNE’s flexibility and support made the transition smooth and helped me find a great balance between academic responsibilities and personal growth. It was the perfect place to study education while staying true to my rural roots.
What happens next?
Got a question about a course you'd like to study? Contact our Future Student Team for help.
2027 applications are now open. The application process only takes 20 minutes to complete. Don’t delay, apply now!
Your start date is based on the study period you choose to apply for.
