Physiological Sciences

The BSc Physiological Sciences program at the University of Dundee offers students a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the human body's structure and function, with a focus on the physiological processes that underpin health and disease. Designed to provide a solid foundation in key areas such as anatomy, biochemistry, and physiology, the degree explores how different systems within the body interact and respond to various stimuli, laying the groundwork for careers in research, healthcare, or further academic study. Throughout the course, students gain practical laboratory skills, learn to analyze complex biological data, and develop a critical understanding of current scientific challenges in human health. The program also emphasizes research methods and experimental design, encouraging students to think analytically and approach scientific questions with rigor and creativity. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and experienced academics, students have opportunities for hands-on research projects, internships, and collaborative work, which prepare them for professional roles in biomedical science, clinical research, or healthcare sectors. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics including neurophysiology, cardiovascular physiology, respiratory physiology, and cellular biology, ensuring a well-rounded educational experience. In addition to core sciences, students develop transferable skills in communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, vital for their future careers. The program is designed to be flexible, enabling students to tailor their studies through optional modules and specializations. Graduates of the Physiological Sciences program are well-equipped to pursue postgraduate studies or enter employment in research, healthcare industries, or educational fields. With the University of Dundee’s strong emphasis on research-led teaching, students are encouraged to engage with innovative projects and stay at the forefront of biomedical advancements, making this program an excellent choice for those passionate about understanding the complexities of the human body and contributing to the future of health science.

Detailed Course Facts

Application deadline January 15 Tuition fee

The fees you pay will, in most cases, depend on your current country of residence.

The fee shown is annual, and may be subject to an increase each year.

Fee category

Fees for students starting September 2015

Scottish students

£1,820 per year of study (for Sept 2014 entry). Fees for September 2015 will be confirmed by the Scottish Government in early 2015.

Rest of UK students

£9,000 per year, for a maximum of 3 years, even if you are studying a four year degree. See our scholarships for rest of UK applicants.

EU students

£1,820 per year of study (for Sept 2014 entry). Fees for September 2015 will be confirmed by the Scottish Government in early 2015.

Overseas students (non-EU)

£15,950 per year of study. See our scholarships for international applicants.

Not specified Start date September 2015 This Course starts in September Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test

• English

Delivery mode On Campus Educational variant Full-time

Course Content

What you will study

Typical Degree Programme

Levels 1 and 2

All Life Sciences degree programmes share common core modules at Level 1 that provide a general introduction to the life sciences through an integrated programme of lectures, tutorials, practical work and field excursions.

Please refer to the Biological/Biomedical Sciences degree structure and overview webpage for details of the common curriculum in Levels 1 and 2.

Level 3

At Level 3 you specialise much more in physiology, and you choose additional subjects that interest you to study alongside your main subject. You will study aspects of cellular and molecular physiology that currently cover:

• Membrane physiology
• Ion and nutrient transport
• Cell-cell communication
• Cell excitability and neurophysiology

The knowledge you gain from these topics will then be carried forward to demonstrate how function at the cell and molecular level is integrated into control of physiological systems (e.g. respiratory, cardiovascular, etc.) and the whole body.

Summer work placements

Many students take advantage of opportunities for summer work placements, normally between Levels 3 and 4, which are available as externally-funded competitive placements, or as voluntary laboratory work.

Level 4

Your studies at Level 4 will be at the level of current research in your chosen subject area.

Advanced study of topics in physiological sciences currently include:

• Membrane transport
• Lung development and function in health and disease
• Regulation of cardiac function
• Human reproduction
• Pain
• Modern techniques of human metabolic investigation
• Regulation of nutrient exchange
• Nutrient induced responses
• Regulation of fuel and oxygen utilisation
• Comparative animal physiology

Your studies will involve extensive use of scientific literature and the opportunity to attend a regular programme of seminars given by invited speakers from Britain and abroad.

Research project - several formats are available including laboratory-based research under the supervision of a leading scientist, computer modelling, multimedia teaching packages, literature and electronic database review.

How you will be assessed

All modules are assessed by a combination of in-course and end-of-course procedures. Regular in-course assessments (e.g. practical reports, computer-based exercises, essays and data processing exercises) provide feedback on your progress and help you prepare for end-of-module examinations.

On-line assignments are used extensively at Levels 1 and 2, with access via a PC on or off campus. Peer assessment operates in many team projects.

Requirements

See the Course Homepage for Full details

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Dundee.

The BSc Physiological Sciences program at the University of Dundee provides students with an in-depth understanding of the human body's functions and systems. The course is designed to offer a comprehensive foundation in biological and physiological principles, enabling students to explore the complexities of human health, disease mechanisms, and bodily regulation. Throughout the program, students engage with modules covering a range of topics including anatomy, biochemistry, cell biology, neuroscience, cardiovascular science, and respiratory physiology. The teaching methodology integrates lectures, laboratory practicals, tutorials, and interactive learning sessions to foster both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

Students have the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research projects and experimental work, which develop their analytical and problem-solving abilities. The program emphasizes the importance of scientific inquiry and evidence-based understanding, preparing graduates for careers in healthcare, research, or further study in postgraduate programs. Additionally, students gain transferable skills such as data analysis, scientific writing, and effective communication. The university facilities include modern laboratories equipped with advanced technology to support experimental learning.

The course also offers a variety of optional modules allows students to tailor their learning experience according to their interests, whether it be in neurophysiology, cardiovascular health, or metabolic processes. The program duration is typically three years for full-time students, with options for integrated Year Abroad or placements to enhance practical experience and employability. The university’s strong links with healthcare institutions and research organizations provide networking opportunities and facilitate internships or placements, helping students to gain real-world experience.

Upon graduation, students are well-prepared for a range of careers in biomedical sciences, physiological research, healthcare professions, or further postgraduate study such as MSc or PhD programs. The program is accredited and designed to meet the standards of professional bodies relevant to biomedical and healthcare sciences. The flexible learning environment, combined with a focus on research and practical skills, ensures graduates are equipped to contribute effectively to advancements in health sciences and related fields.

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