Undergraduate study in Physiology
Physiology sits at the heart of the life sciences, explaining every heartbeat, thought and movement. It reveals how the body's finely tuned systems work together - and how their disruption leads to disease.
Important notice
From 2027, the Physiology major will offer a year one entry pathway into the following year-two clinical programmes: Medicine, Pharmacy, Optometry and Medical Imaging (Honours). You can find out more about this and other clinical programme pathway options on our health majors in Science page.
What can you study in Physiology?
You can study Physiology as a major in the Bachelor of Science (BSc).
Studying Physiology gives you a deep understanding of the bodyʼs essential processes and prepares you to tackle some of the most important challenges in human health. From uncovering how cells transform energy to understanding why disease disrupts normal function, you will gain the scientific insight needed to contribute to tomorrowʼs breakthroughs in medicine, research, and technology.
As a Physiology student, you’ll take courses in Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Medical Science and Physics to give you a solid quantitative grounding and to encourage critical thinking, science innovation and translation. As part of your Physiology major you’ll complete a capstone course, PHYSIOL 399, where you’ll demonstrate your knowledge and skills through the design of a scientific research project. You’ll explore ethics, the role of science and scientists in society, science communication, and commitment to Māori and Pacific health advancement.
Undergraduate adviser
Anuj Bhargava
Structuring your programme in Physiology
If you began your degree prior to 2019 we recommend you seek advice to make sure you are taking the correct courses. For advice, please contact us.
Where can undergraduate study in Physiology take you?
A degree in Physiology opens doors to a wide and growing range of careers, both in Aotearoa New Zealand and internationally. Our graduates have pursued roles in:
Scientific and research careers
- Biomedical scientist
- Clinical research scientist
- Pharmaceutical research associate
Health and clinical professions (with postgraduate study)
- Medicine, nursing, dentistry
- Audiology, optometry
- Physiotherapy, occupational therapy
- Public health
Applied physiology and health science (usually with on-the-job training)
- Exercise physiologist
- Cardiac or respiratory physiologist
- Sleep physiologist / sleep technician
- Healthcare scientist
- Clinical trials coordinator
Industry, Technology, and Innovation
- Medical devices and diagnostics
- Biotech product development
- Regulatory affairs or medical writing
- Health data and analytics
Education and science communication
- Secondary (with one year postgraduate training) or tertiary teaching
- Science outreach or journalism
- Health promotion specialist
Further study options
Help and advice
Student Hubs
Visit your local Student Hub for help and advice on any aspect of your studies and life at University.
The Student Hubs are your physical gateway to Waipapa Taumata Rau, University of Auckland.
Student Hub services are available seven days a week at the City, Grafton and Tai Tonga campuses and six days a week at Tai Tokerau, with friendly staff available to provide you with advice on any aspect of your studies and life at the University.