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Physiology BSc

Study of how the human body functions - combining biology, chemistry, and anatomy to explore the systems that keep us alive and healthy.

YOUR PERSONALITY MIGHT BE:

Scientifically curious

Detail-oriented

Research-focused

Analytically minded

POPULAR CAREER FIELDS

Research & Academia

Healthcare & Public Health

Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology

Sports & Recreation

Is this for you?

Physiology BSc

Is this for you?

WHAT IS IT?

Study of how the human body functions - combining biology, chemistry, and anatomy to explore the systems that keep us alive and healthy.

CAREER OPTIONS

CURRENT APPRENTICESHIPS, INTERNSHIPS & WORKPLACES

Internships
Internships
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships
Works placements
Uni Open Days
Physiology students with an anomatomical human model

FIND OUT MORE

About the Course

  • What Is a Physiology Degree?

    Physiology focuses on understanding how cells, tissues, and organs work together to sustain life. You’ll study the body’s systems, from the heart and lungs to the brain and muscles, and how they adapt to exercise, disease, and environmental change.


    Why Study Physiology?

    If you’re fascinated by how the human body works and want to contribute to health and medical research, Physiology is an ideal choice. It’s a strong foundation for careers in healthcare, sports science, and biomedical research.

  • Most Physiology degrees cover:


    • Human anatomy and biology

    • Biochemistry and cell physiology

    • Cardiovascular and respiratory systems

    • Neuroscience and neurophysiology

    • Endocrine and reproductive physiology

    • Exercise and environmental physiology

    • Research methods and statistics


    Later in your degree, you may specialise in areas such as pharmacology, sports physiology, or medical science.

  • Human Systems Understanding – deep knowledge of cardiovascular, respiratory, neural, and endocrine functions.


    Experimental Techniques – conducting lab investigations on cells, tissues, and whole-body responses.


    Data Interpretation – analysing physiological measurements and interpreting complex biological data.


    Research Skills – designing studies, collecting data, and evaluating scientific evidence.


    Clinical Insight – linking physiological processes to health, disease, and therapeutic interventions.

  • A-levels or equivalent including Biology and Chemistry. Some universities accept Biology plus one other Science (Chemistry, Physics, Maths, or Psychology). Chemistry is strongly recommended.


    • Explain your curiosity about how the body works.

    • Mention any relevant experience in science, healthcare, or sport.

    • Highlight analytical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.

    • Show how physiology links to your future career goals.

    • The Body: A Guide for Occupants by Bill Bryson – A lively and fascinating tour of human biology.

    • Why We Sleep by Matthew Walker – Exploring how sleep affects physiology and health.

    • Human Physiology: From Cells to Systems by Lauralee Sherwood – A core textbook for students.

    • The Spark in the Machine by Daniel Keown – A look at how anatomy and physiology connect to medical practice.

    • Explore anatomy and physiology through online courses or videos.

    • Visit university open days to explore labs and research facilities.

    • Volunteer or gain experience in science or healthcare settings.

    • Read about medical advances and current health research.

    • Research - Physiological scientist, neurophysiologist, academic researcher

    • Healthcare - Clinical physiologist, cardiac physiologist, respiratory physiologist

    • Pharmaceuticals - Drug development scientist, clinical trials coordinator, pharmacologist

    • Sports Science - Sports physiologist, exercise physiologist, performance analyst

    • Education - Physiology lecturer, science teacher, academic tutor

    • Medical Devices - Medical science liaison, clinical application specialist

    • Biotechnology - Biotechnologist, biomedical scientist, laboratory technician

    • Public Health - Health improvement specialist, health promotion officer

    • Clinical Research - Clinical researcher, research coordinator, data analyst

    • Healthcare Management - Clinical service manager, healthcare consultant

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