MSC – Pharmacy

M.Sc. Pharmacognosy

The M.Sc. Pharmacognosy is a lecture based programme with hands-on practical classes and a research project. The program started in 2003 with 3 students, and has produced over 150 graduates. It is intended to produce a pool of highly trained personnel who will be involved in research and development including policy aspects of phytomedicines. At the end of training, graduates are expected to have gained basic understanding of the physical and chemical properties of compounds that occur in nature, in order to be able to isolate, identify, characterize, and utilize them for therapeutic purposes. Graduates of this course will be in demand in research institutions, pharmaceutical firms dealing with natural products, teaching at tertiary institutions or as practitioners in Herbal medicine. Areas of specialization include:

Drug discovery and development
Standardization and quality control of natural products
Uses of traditional remedies
Conservation of medicinal or economically important natural products
Uses of natural products for agricultural and veterinary purposes
Safety and functional uses of food components and consumer products
Cosmetic application of natural compounds or extracts
Use of genetic biosynthetic pathways for the purpose of enhancing the production of natural compounds

Number of Staff

List of MSc Teachers for the Programme = 9

SN	Full Name (Surname First)	Highest Qualification	Status	Dept	Area(s) of Specialization
1	Prof. Adesegun, Sunday Adeleke	B. Pharm, M.Sc, Ph.D	Professor/ HOD	Pharmacognosy	Natural product drug discovery and Phytochemistry
2	Prof. Odukoya, Olukemi Abiodun	B.Pharm, M.Sc, Ph.D.	Professor	Pharmacognosy	Evaluation of biologically active natural products, Standardization and Phytochemistry
3	Prof. Ajayi, Glory Oluremilekun	B.Pharm, M.Sc, Ph.D.	Professor	Pharmacognosy	Phytochemistry, Biological evaluation of natural products and Quality control of herbal drugs
4	Prof. Sowemimo, Abimbola Adepeju	B.Sc. MSc, Ph.D.	Professor	Pharmacognosy	Natural Product Research
5	Prof. Sofidiya, Margaret Oluwatoyin	B.Sc. MSc, Ph.D	Professor	Pharmacognosy	Ethnobotany and Ethnopharmacology
6	Dr. Orabueze, Ifeoma Celestina	B.Pharm, M.Sc, Ph.D.	Senior Lecturer	Pharmacognosy	Ethnomedicine, Natural Product Chemistry, Formulation and Standardization of herbal products
7	Dr. Odimegwu, Joy Ifunaya	B.Sc. MSc, Ph.D	Senior Lecturer	Pharmacognosy	Medicinal Plant Development using Biotechnology and Phytochemistry
8	Dr. Mutiat Bolanle Ibrahim	B.Pharm, M.Sc, Ph.D.	Lecturer I	Pharmacognosy	Ethnopharmacology/Phytochemistry
9.	Dr. Akinsola	MBBS MSc, PhD	Senior Lecturer	Public Health	Medical Statistics and Medical data analysis

Available programme:

Masters (M.Sc.) Pharmacognosy
Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) Pharmacognosy
Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Pharmacognosy

Programme over view

MASTERS (M.Sc.) PHARMACOGNOSY

The M.Sc. Pharmacognosy is a lecture-based, multidisciplinary training with hands-on practical classes and a research project course, which enables students to focus on areas of their interest. Graduates of this programme are expected to have gained basic understanding of the physical and chemical properties of the compounds that occur in nature, in order to be able to isolate, identify, characterize, and utilize them for specific purposes. The programme is intended to produce a pool of highly trained personnel who will be involved in health care delivery, academia, wellness, and research and development including policy aspects of phytomedicines.

Areas of specialization include:

Drug discovery and development
Development and use of analytical methods for standardization and quality control of natural products
Use of traditional remedies
Conservation of medicinal or economically important natural products
Use of natural products for agricultural and veterinary purposes
Safety and functional uses of food components and consumer products
Cosmetic application of natural compounds or extracts
Use of genetic biosynthetic pathways for the purpose of enhancing the production of natural compounds

Duration of the programme is a minimum of three (3) semesters and a maximum of six (6) semesters.

Aim and Objectives

Aim

The aim of the programme is to raise specialized personnel in Pharmacognosy, with the required knowledge, skills and right attitude to pursue career in Pharmacognosy and related fields.

Learning outcome

The MSc programme in Pharmacognosy aims at:

(a) Producing specialized manpower needed for institutions of higher learning.

(b) Producing high-level manpower required for Research institutes and industries.

(c) Providing adequate knowledge to explore and exploit the possible use of indigenous Nigerian Herbal/Traditional Medicines and formulation of these phyto-medicines.

(d) Producing specialized cadre of personnel, who would assist in the integration of Herbal Medicine into Modern Medicine.

Objectives of the course are to:

identify drug from natural origin and their supply, cultivation, collection, storage along with their special conditions.
identify drugs from natural origin and their uses.
recall the cultivation and collection conditions.
identify the storage of drugs.
apply analytical methods for quality control and standardization of drugs of natural origin.
define methods for quality control.
identify appropriate methods according to the source of the natural product material.
outline the natural products such as as carbohydrates, gums, musilages, enzymes and protein containing drugs.
categorize and define carbohydrates and derivatives.
categorize and define gums and mucilages
categorize and define enzymes as drugs and protein containing drugs.

Admission requirements

M.Sc. Pharmacognosy: An applicant for admission to this programme shall be a graduate of a reputable the University, holding a degree with minimum of second-class lower division in any of the following courses: Pharmacy (B. Pharm or Pharm. D.), Chemistry, Biochemistry, Botany and Plant science. Registration with Pharmacists Council of Nigeria will be an advantage and will attract an extra score.

Graduation requirement

To graduate and be awarded the certificate of M.Sc. Pharmacognosy, candidates would have taken and pass a minimum of 30 units and maximum of 40 units that is made up of compulsory courses (22 units); seminar (2 units); research project (4 units) and elective course (2 units). Candidates without Pharmacy background will be expected to take some undergraduate courses. These audited course credits are not recognized as part of the final result but they must be passed before award of the degree.

Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) Pharmacognosy

The M. Phil. (Pharmacognosy) will expose the students to both theory and practical classes. It is intended to produce a pool of highly trained personnel who will be involved in natural products research and development including policy aspects of phytomedicines. They will be versed in herbal medicine drug discovery for diverse disease systems e.g. cancers, cardiovascular diseases and so on. Graduates of this course will be in demand in research institutions, pharmaceutical firms dealing with natural drugs, teaching at tertiary institutions or as practitioners in traditional medicine. They will also be empowered to start up; Agro-Pharmaceuticals as it has to do with Traditional and Herbal Medicines.

Areas of specialization include:

Drug discovery and development
Conservation of medicinal or economically important natural products
Use of natural products for agricultural and veterinary purposes
Use of genetic biosynthetic pathways for the purpose of enhancing the production of natural compounds

The duration for the programme is a minimum of four (4) semesters and maximum of eight (8) semesters for the full-time programme. And a minimum of six (6) semesters and maximum of twelve (12) semesters for part time programme.

Admission requirements

Admission into the degree programme of Master of Philosophy in Pharmacognosy is open to:

Candidates who possess a Master of Science degree (M.Sc.) in Pharmacognosy from the University of Lagos or any other approved University with a minimum CGPA of 3.00/5.00.
Candidates with Bachelor of Pharmacy Degree (B. Pharm.) from the University of Lagos or any other approved University with a minimum CGPA of 00/5.00.

Graduation requirement

Candidates admitted with M.Sc. Pharmacognosy must offer and pass the 9 units coursework as recommended by the department. Candidates admitted with B. Pharm must offer and pass 43 units.

A candidate whose course work result CGPA is less than 3.50/5.00 would be advised to earn extra on 6 units seminar and 6 units dissertation towards completing the programme as a terminnal programme.

A candidate whose course work results CGPA is 3.50/5.00 or above would be advised to proceed to Ph.D. programme.

Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) Pharmacognosy

The PhD Pharmacognosy in the Department of Pharmacognosy is a world class programme. It offers the opportunity to be engaged in a wide range of cutting-edge research topics. The research area selected is dependent on the project interest of the PhD student and the supervisor (member of academic staff).

The programmed aimed at producing highly qualified personnel who will be involved in natural products drugs research and development including contributing to policy decisions on phytomedicines. They will be versed in herbal medicine drug discovery research for diverse disease systems e.g. cancers, cardiovascular diseases. Thus, graduates can be employed in direct research institutions, pharmaceutical firms dealing with natural drugs, teaching at tertiary institutions or as practitioners in traditional medicine. They will also be empowered for start-up Agro-Pharmaceuticals as it has to do with Traditional and Herbal Medicines.

The duration for the programme is a minimum of four (6) semesters and maximum of eight (12) semesters for the full-time programme. And a minimum of six (8) semesters and maximum of twelve (16) semesters for part time programme.

Admission requirements

Admission into the Doctor of Philosophy degree Programme in Pharmacognosy will be to candidates who possess any of the followings:

Phil. in Pharmacognosy with a minimum cumulative GPA of at least 3.00/5.00
Sc. in Pharmacognosy or allied courses, with a minimum cumulative GPA of at least 3.00/5.00
Pharm with a distinction or cumulative GPA of 4.50/5.00

Graduation requirement

The Ph.D. in Pharmacognosy degree will be award on completion of the stipulated units in relation to offer during admission offer.

Curriculum details: Courses and their description

PCG 811 Taxonomy and Chemotaxonomy

Classical plant taxonomy of higher and lower plants: Taxonomy refers to a process of classification of living organisms into various categories of taxa. Identification and study of different characteristics, identification, classification and nomenclature of living organisms. Information about various external and internal structure, cell structure, biochemistry, physiological characteristics, developmental processes and also ecological features of the organisms to detect the similarities and differences.

Classical plant chemotaxonomy of higher and lower plants: classification of plants based on their chemical composition, constituents of nature like different living components of the environment that have useful, harmful and inactive chemical composition. Distribution of certain chemotaxonomic groups of constituents in the plant kingdom. Significance of biosynthetic pathways, variations, selection of chemotaxonomic markers and application of chemotaxonomy to plant breeding.

PCG 812 Agro-pharmaceuticals

Historical developments of cultivated plants. Drug plant propagation techniques, examples from common crude drugs of African origin e.g. Digitalis, Opium, Bitter leaf, Garcinia kola, Ginger, Cannabis, Nutmeg, Cinnamon. Development of cultivation, Propagation and Conservation Methodse.g. Plant tissue culture, Bioreactors for established medicinal plants (e.g. those in the African Pharmacopoeia). Agricultural types; Aeroponics, Hydroponics, Medicinal Plant gardens, Arboretum management, Soil types, Degradation, Rehabilitation; Natural and Biological methods.

Economic plant diseases; Viral, Bacterial; Mechanisms of resistance to infection and plant disease control especially molecular techniques.

PCG 813 Pharmaceutical Analysis of Natural Drug Products I

Extraction efficiency and purification methods: Principles of extraction and selection of suitable extraction methods. Different methods of extraction including maceration, percolation, hot continuous extraction, pilot scale extraction and supercritical fluid extraction with their merits and demerits.

Chromatographic techniques (Adsorption CC, TLC, VLC), Partition (PC, GC, e.t.c), HPLC, Gel Filtration, electrophoresis, ion-exchange separation, Droplet counter current (DCCC) e.tc. Titrimetric and gravimetric methods. Assessment of purity, quantification and derivatization of natural products.

PCG 814 Advanced Natural Product Chemistry I

Advanced phytochemistry of natural products: Natural sources, study of isolation, chemical properties and bioactivities, biosynthesis such as acetate pathways: fatty acids and polyketides; shikimate pathways: aromatic compounds, anthraquinones, coumarins, flavonoids and other groups like amino acids and phenylpropanoids; and carbohydrates: monosaccharides, oligosaccharides, aminosugars, aminoglycosides. Discussion will be from the perspective of their structures, stereochemical relations, spectrum of pharmacological activity and chemistry including their synthesis and synthesis of related compounds.

PCG 815 Advanced Techniques In Pharmacognosy I

Laboratory course that covers the practical or laboratory aspects of PCG 812, 813, 814 and 825. Field trip, preparation of herbarium specimens, use of flora keys for plant identification, advanced histological techniques, morphological analysis, pharmacognostic drawings, and microscopy as applied to drug evaluation. Evaluation and standardization of herbal drugs, micro measurement and Magnification; Morphological and microscopical examination of crude drug and cell inclusions. Chromatographic techniques and isolation techniques: Thin Layer Chromatography (TLC), Open column chromatography and modified column chromatography, Hyphenated chromatography: HPLC, GC-MS, LC-MS. Isolation of pure compounds from crude extracts and active fractions

PCG 816 Registration and regulation of herbal products

The course will cover the registration and regulation policy of herbal products.

Regulatory provisions in relation to manufacturing GMP, license, drug registration guidelines, offences and penalties involved in the production and sales of herbal/natural products.

Regulatory issues, national requirements for setting up herbal/natural drug industry for production or sale outlets, patenting of herbals/natural drugs, herbal drug registration processes and trade of raw materials and finished herbal products

PCG 817 Veterinary Pharmacognosy

Natural products and animal health: The traditional concepts of animal diseases and treatment with crude drugs. Plants that improve yield (milk, eggs, healthier young ones) Antibiotic principles in plants used in poultry; Wild amaranth species. Substances of natural origin that promote good health in animals (e.g. Acacia nilotica, Gambir from Uncaria gambir, Lagenaria brevifolia fruit) and proven toxic to animals and their effects e.g. Eupatorium rugosum, Euphorbia spp., Strophanthus spp., Calotropis procera etc. The significance of Pesticides and Herbicides of natural origin e.g. seeds of Azadiractha indica.Phytoestrogens in grasses and effects on herbivores e.g. clover.

PUH 811 Medical Statistics

This course is to equip the students with statistical analysis of experimental data. Design, conduct and interpretation of clinical and epidemiological studies, standard statistical concepts of data descriptions, hypothesis testing including test statistics, correlation, p-values, significance levels, confidence levels and linear regression.

PCG 821 Herbal Cosmetology

Introduction to Cosmetic Science: Basics of skin and Hair science. Herbal ingredients in herbal cosmetics: classes of natural ingredients used in cosmetics making, herbal extracts, oil, essential oil. Introduced to the principles of surface and colloidal chemistry and their specific applications to the development and manufacture of cosmetic products.

Basics of formulation and development of body, skin and hair care products from locally available natural raw materials. Such include, emulsions-shampoo, conditioners, oils, gels.

Perfumery and deodorants: Science and use of natural sourced fragrance.

Analysis techniques, packaging and packaging materials.

Hands on training: Making of cosmetic formulation: emulsion, shampoo, hair and skin care products and Lip balm

PCG 822 Pharmaceutical Analysis of Natural Drug Products II

Spectroscopic data in organic structure analysis, Introduction to Nuclear Magnetic resonance, interpretation and use of proton and carbon chemical shifts, multiple-pulse and multidimensional NMR techniques: one and two-dimensional NMR techniques, core techniques of mass spectroscopy: interpretation and use of data, different ionization techniques, molecular formular from molecular ion peak tandem mass spectroscopy, fragmentation processes, Infrared spectroscopy, optical and chiroptical techniques: UV spectroscopy, including behaviour of chiral chromophores, ORD-CD. Strategy of determining structure and stereochemistry: spectroscopic data translated into structures.

PCG 823 Advanced Natural Product Chemistry II

Advanced phytochemistry (i.e. Natural sources, biosynthesis, study of isolation, chemical properties and bioactivities) of mevalonate and deoxyxylulose pathways: terpenoids (mono, sesqui, di, sester, tri and tetraterpenoids), steroids, carotenolides, cardiac glycosides. Alkaloids from ornithine, lysine, nicotinic acid, tyrosine, tryptophan, histidine, and purine alkaloids. Peptides, proteins and other amino acid derivatives. Specific examples will be selected within each class and discussed from the perpective of their structures, stereochemical relations, spectrum of pharmacological activity and chemistry including their synthesis and synthesis of related compounds.

PCG 824 Advanced Techniques In Pharmacognosy II

Classical and Chemical analysis of crude drugs and surgical dressings, different extraction procedures: extraction of Piperine from Piper nigrum, extraction of Caffeine from Tea leaves. Chromatographic studies: TLC Analysis of Curcumin and its Derivatives of Turmeric, flavonoids, coumarin derivatives and anthraquinones; VLC in separation of natural products; Column chromatography techniques and application of spectroscopic methods (i.e. a mini project to be submitted at the end of session.

PCG 825 Biological variations in Natural Products

Bio-variation of secondary metabolites, genetic factors (chromosomes, mutation, polyploidy, hybridization, chemical races) regulatory mechanisms in biochemical systems. Effect of the enzyme on chemical constituents and drug activity e.g. oxidoreductases of flavonoids, opium tea fermentation and hydrolases of cardiac and cyanogenetic glycosides. Factors affecting plant growth e.g. environmental factors, growth hormones and inhibitors etc. Phenotypic effects on variation during cultivation, tissue culture of medicinal plants, possibilities and prospects of drug plant production in Nigeria- economic factors, genetic consideration and selection in plant breeding.

PCG 826 Pharmacognostic analysis of drugs and surgical dressings

The importance of pharmacognostic analysis, quality control and assessment of herbal medicines. Preparation of herbarium specimens, Use of flora keys for identification. Microtomy and advanced histological techniques and standardization. Evaluation and standardization of crude drugs and surgical dressings i.e. Classical and Chemical analysis, Proximate analysis. Biological methods of assay: Pharmacological, Microbiological, Radioimmunoassays

PCG 831 Clinical Pharmacognosy and Training

Nigerian medicinal plants in Traditional medicines. Integration or co-recognition of Traditional medicine. Methods and techniques of Traditional Medicine. Scientific evidence supporting some remedies or practices in Traditional medicine. For the training, students will visit an established herbal home/health services home to be able to acquire competence in (a) Providing a detailed evaluation of the patient’s state of health. (b) Producing a full management plan, incorporating estimated length of treatment and appropriate therapeutic management including herbal medicine, diets, dietary supplements, exercise and massage etc. (c) Training in the use of common diagnostic tools (d) Monitoring and auditing of treatment.

PCG 833 Phytotherapy and Nutritional Medicine

Knowledge of disease process: Antimicrobial, anticancer, antihypertensive, antidiabetes, anti-diarrhoea etc. agents of plant origin to include- occurrence, plant part used, dosage, possible dosage forms. Nutritional medicines as adjunctive treatment in traditional medicine. The role of nutrition in the prevention and treatment of chronic diseases. The average Nigerian diet and the influence of social, economic, environmental and political forces on the choice of diet. Normal and abnormal bowel ecology. The effects of detoxification and fasting. Consideration of the principles behind and application of some dietary approaches e.g. vegetarianism. Nutritional aspects of pregnancy and baby nutrition. The role of diet, micronutrients and dietary supplement in disease states/ Food allergy

PCG 834 Marine derived Natural Products

Marine biodiversity, including invertebrates, algae and bacteria etc. The physical and chemical properties of marine environments. Compounds produced by marine organisms, including peptides and related compounds. Marine Pharmaceuticals Discovery and Development: Marine natural products as anticancer, antimicrobial, anti-tubercular, anti-HIV drugs etc. Other uses for marine-derived compounds include: cosmetics, nutritional supplements, artificial bone, and industrial applications. Define the key drivers in marine drug development, Understand the potential of marine-derived compounds as value-added products,

PCG 841 Principle and Practice of Herbal medicine

Nomenclature and Terminology: Traditional Medicine and Herbal Medicine. Advantages and Disadvantages of Traditional and Modern Medicine. Historical Review, Methods and Techniques and Standardization of Herbal Potions, Scientific evidence of ascertaining some researches, Relationships between plants used in Traditional Medicine and Modern Drugs. Integration or Co-recognition of Traditional and Modern Medicine. Methods of obtaining information on Medicinal Plants. Screening plants for bioactive agents. Guidelines for Research on medicinal plants for local drug production. Research Trend on medicinal plants. Conservation and biodiversity of medicinal plants. Some common medicinal and poisonous plants. Field Trip/Visit to Traditional Medical Clinics

PCG 842 Research Seminar

This will be current topics in Pharmacognosy and Traditional Medicine Practice. The objective is to train graduate students how to search for, understand, write-up and orally present scientific information.

PCG 899 Research Project

Application of research techniques and development of research methodologies to solve problems in the areas of natural drug products.

PCG 911 Natural Products of medicinal importance

Review of standard research publications in chemistry of natural products. Chemistry of separate classes of compounds such as steroids, terpenes, alkaloids, sugars, carotenoids, fatty acid. General characteristics and properties, detection, identification assays, extraction and isolation, structure elucidation. Standardization and quality control of natural products and end products.

PCG 922 Industrial Pharmacognosy

Review of standard research publications in Industrial Pharmacognosy. Optimization of formulation, pilot-plant and production scale-up. Formulation and processing of herbals and other raw materials for Industrial use. Processing of plant materials into different dosage forms. Preparation and storage- Physiochemical properties including Pka, ionization, oxidation. Rate of decomposition and rate of reaction studies of various temp, pH and relative humidity. Determination of shelf life of various formulated products. Quality control of herbal drugs.

Important concepts and principals in modern pharmaceutical industry, such as QbD (Quality-by-Design) and PAT (Process Analytical Technology)

PCG 933 Herbal Therapeutics

PCG 934 Quality control and regulation of herbal products

The course will cover the regulatory and quality policy guiding the production and trade of herbal products and other drugs of natural origin. Regulatory provisions in relation to manufacturing GMP, license, drug registration guidelines, offences and penalties involved in the production and sales of herbal/natural products. The following areas will be of interest for a complete holistic view of the course to be appreciated, guidelines for quality control of herbal/natural medicines and regulatory issues, national requirements for setting up herbal/natural drug industry for production or sale outlets, patenting of herbals/natural drugs, herbal drug registration processes and trade of raw materials and finished herbal products

PCG 935 Nutrition and aromatherapy

Nutrition will be addressed as a therapeutic instrument in the course of management, prevention, control of disease states. The course will cover the use of nutrition as a target to good health, wellness, healing and relaxation. The course is designed to include also, effects of food additives (Supplementation and food fortification) and food processing, maternal nutritional needs and childhood malnutrition

Extraction, extraction techniques and storage for essential and fixed oils; Curative power of essential and fixed oils: focus will be on the use of locally available oils for therapeutic purposes such as general body healing, immune support, stress relief, emotional balance, skin care, respiratory health, green cleaning, and even muscle tension, pain, relaxation and sleep.

PCG 936 Formulation and standardization of herbal medicine

The source and identification of commonly available and used raw materials of natural origin, basic methods or procedures for various herbal preparations, formulation development of various dosage form of herbal medicine and quality control of drugs of natural origin, current good manufacturing practices of herbal products as stated by regulatory authorities, guidelines for quality control of herbal products, current challenges in modernization and packaging of herbal formulations, hygiene, documentation (record keeping).

PCG 941 Seminar I

Presentation of seminar on current research on natural product drug discovery.

PCG 942 Seminar II

Presentation of seminars on current advances in herbal therapeutics.

PCG 943 Seminar III

Presentation of seminar on any other related topics given by a supervisor.

PCG 949 Research Project

Research project and thesis writing

PCG 951 Advanced Topics in Natural Product of Medicinal Importance

Review of standard research publications in chemistry of natural products. General characteristics and properties, detection, identification assays, extraction and isolation, structure elucidation. Role of natural products in drug discovery. Candidates will be required to submit a term paper.

PCG 952 Advanced Topics in Industrial Pharmacognosy

Review of standard research publications in Industrial Pharmacognosy. Formulation and processing of herbals and other raw materials for Industrial use. Processing of plant materials into different dosage forms. Preparation and storage- Physiochemical properties including Pka, ionization, oxidation. Rate of decomposition and rate of reaction studies of various temp, pH and relative humidity. Determination of shelf life of various formulated products. Quality control of herbal drugs. Global trade, quality control and regulatory concerns, traditional medicine systems, production and utilization of drugs, and utilization of medicinal and aromatic plants. Phytopharmaceuticals uses of natural products in the pharmaceutical industry. Candidates may be required to submit a term paper.

PCG 953 Advanced Topics in Herbal Therapeutics

Review of standard research publications in Herbal therapeutics. The following area may be of interest. The nature of therapeutics and the role of herbal therapeutics, common (global) elements in the therapeutics of herbal traditions around the world. A review of the main underlying concepts of medical herbalism. Treating, prescribing and choice of herbs for different age and gender groups including infants, children, pregnancy, birth, lactation and the elderly. Choosing the appropriate therapeutic route of administration of herbal remedies, e.g. infusions, lotions, ointments etc. Review of Pharmacy procedures. Self-audit strategies for monitoring the course of treatment and quality of delivery of herbal practice. Legal requirements and issues affecting herbal practice. Candidates may be required to submit a term paper.

PCG 954 Advanced Techniques in Chemistry of Natural Products

Related topics are given by a supervisor. Chemistry of secondary metabolites, isolation and structure determination of natural products, biosynthesis. Trending and current information o separation and analytical techniques and instrumentation: thin-layer chromatography (TLC), high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC), high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), gas chromatography (GC) and, mass spectrometry (MS) and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), X-ray diffraction, HSCCC = high-speed counter current chromatography; supercritical fluid chromatography (SFC); liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (LC–M); liquid chromatography–nuclear magnetic resonance (LC-NMR); liquid chromatography–capillary electrophoresis (LC-CE); liquid chromatography–infrared (LC-IR)

Candidates may be required to submit a term paper.

PCG 955 Wellness and physical therapy

This course address issues related to wellness and overall health and fitness promotion from holistic approach to healthcare.

Identification of basic body landmarks tendons, muscles, joint boundaries, and ligaments of the trunk, head, and extremities

Basic medical applications of scientific-medical imaging systems include conventional X-ray, computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), nuclear medicine (PET and SPECT), and ultrasound.

Pain science, musculoskeleta pain, relationship between sleep and pain, neuromuscular Rehabilitation

Physical therapy: Sports medicine, therapeutic exercise, massage techniques

Topics of interest will include nutrition, balance, weight loss, basic dietary and lifestyle for all ages promoting lifelong wellness, meditation, yoga,

The relationship between physical exercise and wellness.

PCG 956 Advanced Agro-pharmaceuticals

Drug plant propagation techniques for greatest phytochemical yields; (augmented extractive values) Common crude drugs of African and Nigerian origin cultivated; for commerce; Specific monocropping for pharmaceutical industry use e.g sesame seeds, Carica papaya. Specialized drying techniques for thermo-labile crude drugs e.g flash drying of fruits.

Advanced Conservation Methods e.g. Plant tissue culture, Bio-reactors for established medicinal plants, emphasis on indigenous plants. Agricultural types; Aeroponics, Hydroponics, Medicinal Plant gardens, Soil types, Degradation, Rehabilitation; Natural and Biological methods of rehabilitation e.g. Use of Moringa trees.

Analytical techniques of assessing pollutants, Study of the different factors affecting crude drugs collection and storage; GMP as indicated by FAO and WHO throughout the value chain; soil preparation, seed/stem selection, monitoring growth, ground water for contaminants like heavy metals as plants take these up through the roots. Appropriate time of harvest, Quality assurance methods. Laws protecting the environment; Federal Environment Protection Act of 1988 etc. Economic plant diseases; Viral, Bacterial; Mechanisms of resistance to infection and plant disease control especially molecular techniques.

PCG 991 Seminar IV

Presentation of Proposal Seminar on the current research topic. The intended research outline, such as literature review, aim, objective, methods and timeline will be presented.

PCG 992 Seminar V

Presentation of Seminar on results obtained from the research/project reports, and research findings.

PCG 999 Research Project -Thesis

Research project and thesis writing by the candidate following the university stated outline and format.

Research opportunities, Faculty and Department led researches.

Herbal model clinic
Herbal formulation and production unit
Availability of equipment
Conductive postgraduate laboratory
Standard herbarium

Application process: Step by step instruction

An interested candidate for MSc. Should go online at the website of the University of Lagos School of Postgraduate School (SPGS), https://spgs.unilag.edu.ng, and purchase the application form online. The form is filled and submitted online. The candidate should upload all needed or requested documents. The qualifying examination date will be communicated to the candidates as at when appropriate. On successful taking of the online examination, the grades are release within 24 hours. The cut-off grade is determined by the departmental members of PG board of examiners and communicated to the SPGS and advice on admission. The admission is offered from the SPGS, University of Lagos.

For M.Phil. and PhD., their forms can be purchased all year round from the SPGS website. The candidate chooses a would-be supervisor and submit a proposal of intended research study to the department for evaluation. The department on receiving the proposal, evaluates it and the candidate is invited to defend the proposal. If satisfied on the ability of the candidate to carry out the proposed research, the departments advices the SPGS to offer admission to the candidate.

Career

The courses are designed to increase the students’ knowledge of various areas in Pharmacognosy including phytomedicinal separation processes, standardization of herbal drugs, identification and evaluation of herbal medicines, clinical pharmacognosy and phytochemistry. The successful postgraduate students shall be well equipped for careers in industries dealing with quality control, product discovery and development, chemical and pharmaceutical raw-materials sourcing, and in academic institutions, teaching/ research hospitals, quality control/assurance research institutes, research and development (R &D.), custom synthesis and analysis.

Employment Prospect

On successful completion of the programme, the student will be able to pursue careers in teaching and research institutions, hospitals and in industries. The successful postgraduate student will be able to originate and conduct meaningful and relevant research in a chosen field of Pharmacognosy and act as consultants for traditional practitioners in their respective communities for standardization of useful medicinal plants.

Student Resources: Details about support services available to students, such as advising, career counseling, and academic resources.

Academic Advising: The University offer academic advising services to help students navigate their academic journey. Academic advisors can assist with course selection, degree planning, and academic policies.

Career Counseling: Career counseling services provide guidance to students on career exploration, resume building, job search strategies, interview preparation, and professional development opportunities. These services often include workshops, career assessments, and one-on-one counseling sessions.

Tutoring Centers: The University have tutoring centers where students can receive assistance with specific subjects or academic skills. Tutors are often fellow students or professionals who excel in the subject matter and can provide individualized support.

Study Skills Workshops: These workshops focus on improving students’ study habits, time management skills, note-taking techniques, and test-taking strategies.

Library Resources: University libraries provide access to a wide range of academic resources, including books, journals, databases, and multimedia materials. Librarians can assist students with research inquiries, information literacy skills, and citation management.

Mental Health Counseling: The University offer counseling services to support students’ mental health and well-being. Counselors provide individual therapy, group therapy, crisis intervention, and referrals to off-campus resources as needed.

Financial Aid Office: The financial aid office assists students with the financial aspects of their education, including scholarships, grants, loans, work-study programs, and financial literacy resources. Staff members can help students navigate the financial aid process and explore funding options.

Medical health centers

Multicultural student affairs unit

Academic support units

Student counseling unit

Medical and general library

Recreational centers – sports facilities

Entrepreneur training unit

Research Opportunities: Information about research opportunities available to students, including faculty-led projects, research centers, and potential funding sources.

A tuition waiver for staff candidates.
Opportunity for bench work sponsorship by foreign agencies such as Fulbright, German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD), Tertiary Education Trust Fund, (TETFUND) etc

Scholarship opportunities by the Postgraduate school for first year Ph.D students

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): A section addressing common inquiries from prospective students, covering topics such as tuition fees, financial aid options, and program duration.

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) for a postgraduate program along with answers:

What are the admission requirements for the postgraduate program?

An applicant for admission to the Master’s programme shall be a graduate of the University of Lagos or any other approved University, holding a degree in any of the following disciplines: Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biochemistry and Botany. Applicant for admission into the degree programme of Master of Philosophy in Pharmacognosy shall possess Master of Science Degree (M.Sc.) in Pharmacognosy from the University of Lagos or an equivalent qualification from any other approved University, Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Chemistry or Biochemistry and Botany or candidates who hold a minimum of an equivalent of Second-Class Upper Division in any of the following disciplines: Pharmacy, Chemistry, Biochemistry and Botany, while possession of degree of Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) or equivalent in Pharmacognosy from this University or any other approved University is a requirement for admission into the Doctor of Philosophy degree Programme in Pharmacognosy.

How long does it take to complete the program?

The duration of the program varies depending on the specific degree for Masters, M.Phil. Or Ph.D.

What is the cost of tuition and are there any financial aid options available?

Tuition costs vary by program and as stipulated by the University. Additionally, students should consider other expenses such as fees, books, and living expenses.

Are there opportunities for research or internships in the program?

Opportunities for research, internships, or practical experiences depending on the University regulation and availability of space. These opportunities provide valuable hands-on experience and networking opportunities for students.

What support services are available to postgraduate students?**

Postgraduate students have access to various support services including academic advising, career counseling, tutoring, writing centers, library resources, mental health counseling, and accessibility services. These services are designed to help students succeed academically and personally during their graduate studies.

What career opportunities are available after completing the program?

A postgraduate degree in Pharmacognosy opens up a variety of career opportunities in both academia and industry. Here are some career paths for individuals holding a postgraduate degree in Pharmacognosy:

Research Scientist: Postgraduates can work as research scientists in academic institutions, research organizations, or pharmaceutical companies. They can conduct research on natural products, identify bioactive compounds, and explore their potential applications in drug discovery and development.

Pharmaceutical Industry: Graduates can work in the pharmaceutical industry in roles such as drug discovery scientist, natural products chemist, or quality control analyst. They may be involved in screening natural products for drug leads, optimizing extraction and purification processes, or ensuring the quality and safety of herbal medicines.

Phytochemist: Phytochemists study the chemical composition of plants and analyze their medicinal properties. They may work in research laboratories, herbal medicine companies, or botanical gardens, conducting chemical analyses of plant extracts and developing new herbal remedies.

Natural Products Pharmacologist: Pharmacologists study the effects of drugs and natural products on biological systems. Postgraduates with a background in Pharmacognosy can work as pharmacologists in academic research labs, pharmaceutical companies, or regulatory agencies, investigating the pharmacological activities and mechanisms of action of natural products.

Regulatory Affairs Specialist: Regulatory affairs specialists ensure that herbal medicines, dietary supplements, and natural health products comply with regulatory requirements and quality standards. Postgraduates with expertise in Pharmacognosy can work in regulatory affairs departments of pharmaceutical companies, government agencies, or consulting firms.

Academician/Professor: Postgraduates can pursue academic careers as professors, lecturers, or researchers in universities, colleges, or research institutes. They can teach courses in Pharmacognosy, medicinal chemistry, pharmacology, or related disciplines, and conduct research on natural products and traditional medicines.

Herbal Product Development: Graduates can work in herbal product development companies, developing new herbal formulations, nutraceuticals, or cosmeceuticals. They may be involved in formulation design, product testing, and regulatory compliance.

Ethnobotanist: Ethnobotanists study the traditional knowledge and uses of plants by indigenous cultures and local communities. Postgraduates in Pharmacognosy can work as ethnobotanists, documenting traditional medicinal plants, conducting ethnobotanical surveys, and collaborating with indigenous healers and communities.

Consultant: Postgraduates with expertise in Pharmacognosy can work as consultants for pharmaceutical companies, herbal medicine manufacturers, or government agencies. They may provide expertise on natural product research, quality control, regulatory compliance, or product development strategies.

Entrepreneur: Graduates can start their own businesses in the herbal products industry, such as herbal medicine manufacturing, botanical dietary supplements, herbal cosmetics, or natural health products retail. Entrepreneurial opportunities exist for those with a passion for natural products and a strong understanding of Pharmacognosy.

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