Frequently Asked Questions

How did the concept for the course arise and who has been involved in the design of the modules?

The course was developed by the Education Board of the Pharmaceutical Licensing Group, the professional association for people involved in business development and licensing. The PLG has been running professional training courses since 1994 and the development of a distance learning formal qualification was a natural development from its Introductory and Advanced training courses.
The course modules were developed by the PLG Education Board, which consists of Professor Bill Dawson [previously Technology Acquisition Director of Lilly], Roger Davies [formerly Business Development Director at Bioglan and Mundipharma] and Sharon Finch [CEO Medius, Non Exec Chairman of PLG UK]. The design of the modules involved broad consultation with both academics and industry major pharma companies such as AZ, Merck, Pfizer et al. Once the course outline had been designated, industry module leaders were appointed to determine the precise content of each module.

When do the modules start?

It is expected that each module will be taken in sequence, not in parallel; it is recommended that the Introductory module 1 is studied first.
Module 1 is compulsory for the MSc but can be taken at any time during the course of study, although it is strongly recommended that it is taken early as it provides a useful framework for the course and also provides familiarisation with distance learning.

How long will each module take?

The course is run as distance learning and it is anticipated that each module can take approx four [4] months to complete. It is therefore possible to finish the entire eight [8] modules in two years and then there is the additional 600 hour project required to complete the MSc.

What are the course materials like?

At present the course materials are paper, PDF and CD based but some of the assignments may be run on an interactive basis. Students will have full access to the facilities on the PLG Masters website, including chat rooms, discussion groups and MSD Library for reference materials

How is the directed learning and direct contact hours organised?

In respect of the direct contact hours, these have been arranged to take account of the fact that most people will be operating on a distance basis. There are seventy [70] hours directed learning achieved via studying the course module materials [hard copy files and CDs], which are despatched to each student on registering for that specific module. There is then a further seventy [70] hours private study required for reading around the subject matter, private research and the time required to complete the assignments.
The assignments will vary from module to module, reflecting the nature of the subject but all assignments will be relevant to day-to-day business development and licensing activities.
At enrolment students will be told when the direct contact time will take place. If it is not possible to attend the contact in the first year, it will be possible to attend it when it runs for the next time. Accommodation and other administration details will be sent to the students, the Course Administrator will be able to assist with any required arrangements.

What are the academic course requirements?

Entry requirements to the course are an appropriate degree or relevant industrial experience of not less than three years.

Is CPD required in business development and licensing?

So far, CPD [Continuous Professional Development] is recognised in the legal profession but is not a formal requirement in pharma business development. Most companies recognise the need for continuing professional development but do not insist on a formal programme of training.

What are the responsibilities of the registered students?

Each individual will be registered as a student of the University. There are tutors and mentors allocated to each student to assist them with their study programme. It is for individuals to pursue the course at their own pace. Each student has the option of enrolling for a single module, the whole MSc course, the Certificate [four modules] or the Diploma [eight modules].