Undergraduate study in Physiology
The study of how the human body works, with a focus on understanding what influences the development of disease.
What can you study in Physiology?
You can study Physiology as a major in the Bachelor of Science (BSc).
Physiology is the study of how living organisms function, from the cellular to the whole-body level. If we understand how organisms work, we can understand what goes wrong in disease, and develop a scientific basis for its treatment. Physiology is highly quantitative and has close links with biochemistry, molecular biology, mathematical modelling, pharmacology, zoology and neuroscience.
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 Advisor
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?
Physiology holds a central position amongst the biological and medical sciences. With a physiology background you could work in New Zealand’s rapidly growing healthcare sector. There is also much work overseas, with a strong demand from the international biomedical research community for physiology graduates.
Career opportunities include:
- Biomedical research
- Industry research
- Medical journalism and science communication
- Sports physiology
A Physiology background is also very desirable for clinical professions. For example, it could lead to work in the areas of audiology, medicine, optometry and veterinary medicine. Physiology has always been important in medical research and drug development.
Further study options
Help and advice
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