Legislative Frameworks & Drug Monitoring module (LV53001)

The term 'drug' relates to substances that alter the functioning of the human body. Drugs can be used for medicinal, recreational, or illicit activities. If misused, drugs can cause public health issues as well as impact social, economic, and environmental factors.

As a result, there is a need for both national and international control of these substances. Legislative frameworks tend to categorise drugs for control purposes according to the potential level of harm they may cause if misused.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• develop critical awareness of current issues and challenges in toxicology and drug analyst practice and research
• understand the role and responsibilities of a toxicologist/ drug analyst in different settings e.g., forensic, clinical, or pharmaceutical laboratory  
• synthesise specialist knowledge on drug markets and how legislative changes impact drugs in circulation 
• understand different bulk and trace drug sampling strategies and critically assess when to apply these 
• understand the importance of clear, concise, and coherent written communication in academic settings, including research papers, essays, and reports  
• adapt to different situations and contribute effectively in complex environments based on available information  

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• understand the control, management, and regulation of drugs in the UK and globally
• analyse the illicit manufacture, distribution, and use of drugs (including concealment methods)
• appreciate the role of the toxicologist and drug analyst

Assignments / assessment

• essay (50%)
• assessed scenario (50%)

This module does not have a final exam.

Teaching methods / timetable

Learning and teaching will take place on our virtual learning environment. Lectures will be prerecorded allowing you to learn at your own pace and will be supported by online live sessions and tutorials, reading lists, discussion boards, and self-assessment tools.