Physiology (bsc (hons)) in University College Cork, Ireland

Physiology (bsc (hons)) in University College Cork

Physiology is the study of how humans and other animals function at all levels: the whole body, the cells it is composed of, and the molecular processes happening inside these cells.

An understanding of normal physiology forms the basis for the practice of human and veterinary medicine (and much of dentistry). Physiology is distinctive among the biological sciences in that it takes an integrated, holistic view of the whole organism, bringing together knowledge from a range of disciplines to create an overall understanding of the living organism. 

Other life sciences have adopted a reductionist approach, concentrating on a single component of a complex system rather than the system as a whole. Physiology brings these fragments together to understand how a living organism works. 

If you enjoy working with the details as well as the overall picture, then maybe Physiology is the degree for you.

The course starts with the basic Year 1 material common to Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Mathematics (CK402).

In Year 2 it builds on this by examining the fundamental molecular processes that occur in all cells and the function of some specialised cell types, such as nerve and muscle cells. Based on this foundation in cellular physiology, the course then deals with interactions between large populations of cells and with the integrated function of organ systems as they occur in whole animals, principally humans.

Year 3 provides a deep insight into the functions of the body systems (eg nervous, cardiovascular, respiratory systems) and includes core modules in Pharmacology (how drugs can be used both to alter biological function and to reveal new aspects of biology), immunology (study of the body’s defence mechanisms), and a literature review style research project.

In Year 4, you will be introduced to issues in diverse areas of Physiology with a focus on the research literature and exploration of methods, data analysis and theories of molecular, cell and integrative physiology. The application of basic science to human health and disease is explored. You will also undertake a research project under the supervision of academic staff. 

Why Choose This Course

In the final year, learning Physiology takes on a new dimension as you will get the opportunity to work in the lab with a member of staff and a research team.

Students currently work for at least eight weeks on projects as diverse as kidney function in anaesthetised rats, cardiovascular function in human volunteers, cellular calcium signalling, sensory function and the development of gene therapies for inherited diseases.

Student projects are regularly selected each year for presentation at the summer meeting of the Royal Academy of Medicine in Ireland and some have been presented at international scientific meetings such as the Physiological Society.

Skills and Careers Information

A degree in Physiology is an ideal entry qualification for UCC’s Graduate Entry Medicine course, giving a strong grounding in normal human body function, which is an excellent basis for understanding disease and ultimately treating patients.

Physiology graduates are also well-placed to enter biomedical research – demand is currently increasing from the pharmaceutical industry for scientists with an understanding of whole-body function and the relevant research skills to apply that understanding.

Physiology is a particularly strong degree for teachers (via the Postgraduate Diploma in Education), as it integrates knowledge of Biology and the basic sciences (Chemistry, Physics, Mathematics) into an understanding of the complexity of life.

A number of Physiology graduates have also embarked on training and careers in the clinical therapies and in pharmaceutical sales and management.