Quality education in pharmacology requires the active participation of the student. This article by P.K. Rangachari describes a novel honours programme in biology and pharmacology at McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario. The pharmacology courses are taught in a problem-based, self-directed and small-group format where students are encouraged to be responsible for seeking and critically assessing knowledge, communicating it effectively and gauging their own progress. These skills are reinforced by placing students in work terms in industry, government and university laboratories. This new programme has received high ratings from students, Faculty and employers.