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Description
You can use this course to work towards one of two possible degree titles:
- BSc (Hons) Physiological Science
- BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science
The Physiological Sciences course builds on your existing knowledge of chemistry/biology to give you a thorough understanding of how the body functions and how cells, tissues and organs work together.
Depending on your choice of modules, and the availability of suitable placements, it may be possible to switch from Physiological Sciences to Healthcare Science. This is the accredited training programme for working in the NHS as a healthcare science practitioner either in cardiac physiology or audiology.
Sunderland scores highly in science; the most recent review by the Quality Assurance Agency awarded biology the highest possible score of 24 out of 24, and physiology was awarded 23 out of 24.
The University provides excellent facilities in our modern Sciences Complex and the quality of our analytical science equipment is outstanding among UK universities.
Detailed Course Facts
Application deadline 15th January/October Tuition fee- GBP 8500 Year (EEA)
- GBP 9500 Year (International)
- English
Course Content
Which degree to choose?Depending on the availability of suitable placements, and your choice of options, you can work towards one of three possible degree titles:
- BSc (Hons) Physiological Sciences
- BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Cardiac Physiology)
- BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Audiology)*
*Please note that the BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Audiology) route is unavailable for students starting their course in September 2012. However, it will be available to students starting in September 2013.
BSc (Hons) Physiological Sciences Year 1 (national level 4)- Human Physiology (20 Credits)
- Cell Science 1 (20 Credits)
- Clinical Practice and Professional Skills (20 Credits)
- Infection and Immunity (20 Credits)
- Introduction to Cardiovascular, Respiratory and Sleep Science (20 Credits)
- Applied Anatomy, Physiology and Pathophysiology (20 Credits)
Core modules:
- Research Methods (10 Credits)
- Pathophysiology and Therapeutics (20 Credits)
- Pathophysiology of Auditory and Vestibular Systems (20 Credits)
- Pathophysiology of Common Cardiovascular and Respiratory Conditions (30 Credits)
Optional modules (choose 2):
- Cell Science II (20 Credits)
- Infection and Immunity II (20 Credits)
- Blood Science (20 Credits)
- Biosciences Dissertation (20 Credits)
- Physiology of Sport and Exercise
Core modules:
- Research Project in Physiological Sciences (30 Credits)
Optional modules (choose 4 or 5):
- Molecular Pathology (20 Credits)
- Immunology (20 Credits)
- Haematology with Blood Transfusion (20 Credits)
- Human Genetics and Genomics (20 Credits)
- Medical Microbiology (20 Credits)
- Applying Cardiac Physiology I
- Psycho/Social Aspects of Hearing Loss (30 Credits)
- Pathobiology (10 Credits)
- Physiology of Sport and Exercise II (20 Credits)
- Nutrition of Sport and Exercise (20 Credits)
All core modules
- Human Physiology
- Cell Science I
- Infection and Immunity I
- Clinical Practice and Professional Skills *
- Introduction to Cardiovascular Respiratory and Sleep Science
- Introduction to the practice of Cardiovascular, Respiratory and Sleep Science
*Here you will be required to undertake a suitable 10-week work placement in your first year
Year 2 (national level 5)All core modules
- Research Methods (10 Credits)
- Instrumentation, signal processing and imaging (20 Credits)
- Pathophysiology of common Cardiovascular and Respiratory conditions (20 Credits)
- Cardiac Physiology: ECG (30 Credits)
- Cardiac Physiology: Blood Pressure (20 Credits)
- Professional Practice and work-based training 1 in Physiological Sciences (20 Credits)
You will also be required to undertake a suitable 15 week work placement at the end of your second year
Year 3 (national level 6)All core modules
- Professional Practice and work-based training in Physiological Sciences * (30 Credits)
- Research Project in Physiological Sciences (30 Credits)
- Applying Cardiac Physiology I (20 Credits)
- Applying Cardiac Physiology II (20 Credits)
- Applying Cardiac Physiology III (20 Credits)
* Here you will be required to undertake a suitable 25 week work placement in your final year
BSc (Hons) Healthcare Science (Audiology) Year 1 (national level 4)All core modules
- Human Physiology (20 Credits)
- Cell Science I (20 Credits)
- Infection and Immunity I (20 Credits)
- Clinical Practice and Professional Skills * (20 Credits)
- Applied Physics and Measurements (20 Credits)
- Applied Anatomy, Physiology and Pathophysiology (20 Credits)
*Here you will be required to undertake a suitable 10-week work placement in your first year
Year 2 (national level 5)All core modules
- Research Methods
- Applied Physiological Measurement and Instrumentation
- Processes of Audiological Rehabilitation
- Pathophysiology of Auditory and Vestibular systems
- Fundamental Principles of Audiological Assessment
- Professional Practice and work-based training in Physiological Sciences I
You will also be required to undertake a suitable 15 week work placement at the end of your second year
Year 3 (national level 6)Core modules
- Professional Practice and work-based training in Physiological Science II * (30 Credits)
- Research Project in Physiological Sciences (30 Credits)
- Psycho/Social Aspects of Hearing Loss (30 Credits)
- Advanced Principles of Audiological Assessment (20 Credits)
Optional Modules (choose 1)
- Introduction to Tinnitus (10 Credits)
- Vestibular Assessment (10 Credits)
- Paediatric Assessment (10 Credits)
- Specialist Hearing Instruments (10 Credits)
*Here you will be required to undertake a suitable 25 week work placement in your final year
English Language Requirements
IELTS band : 6
To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to
take an IELTS test. More About IELTSRequirements
Our typical offer will be in the region of 260 points from a minimum of two A Levels or equivalent (for example 1 x AVCE double award) including biology or chemistry. Please note we do not accept General Studies AS or A Level.
We accept a maximum of 20 points from Level 3 Key Skills qualifications.
We also require three passes at GCSE grade C or above, which must include Mathematics and English Language, or a minimum of Level 2 Key Skills in Communication, Application of Number
In order to undertake the work-based training part of the Healthcare Science programme, you will need a satisfactory disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and a medical check, and be subject to interview by the hospital work placement provider. This selection process will be undertaken during the first year of the course.
If you wish to take the Healthcare Science route you will need a score of 7.0 IELTS.
If you have already covered one or more of the topics covered by the course, and would like to apply for accreditation of prior learning (APL), please contact the course leader.
Other acceptable qualifications
BTEC National: 260 points from a relevant BTEC Certificate or Diploma.
Access Courses: We would require successful completion of an Access to Higher Education course that is accredited by the Quality Assurance Agency, to include Biology or Chemistry. We would also require a minimum of grade C in GCSE in Mathematics and English Language or the equivalent as part of your course.
Scottish Highers: Our typical offer is for 260 points including Biology or Chemistry.
Irish Leaving Certificate: Our typical offer is for 260 points including Biology or Chemistry.
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 Sunderland.
Funding
Scholarships on offer include cash bursaries, reduced tuition fees, free accommodation and free public transport.
The BSc (Hons) Physiological Sciences at the University of Sunderland offers a comprehensive undergraduate education that combines the study of human biology, physiology, and health sciences to prepare students for careers in healthcare, research, and related fields. This programme explores the fundamental aspects of how the human body functions, including cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, musculoskeletal, and endocrine systems. Students gain a solid grounding in scientific principles as well as practical laboratory and research skills, which are essential for understanding complex physiological processes and applying them in real-world contexts.
Throughout the course, students engage with a wide range of modules that develop their knowledge of anatomy, biochemistry, pharmacology, and pathology. The programme emphasizes the importance of critical thinking, data analysis, and scientific communication. Practical sessions and laboratory work are integral parts of the curriculum, providing hands-on experience with current techniques used in physiological research and diagnostics. Furthermore, the course offers opportunities for work placements and internships, allowing students to gain valuable industry experience and understand the application of physiology in healthcare settings.
The programme is designed to support students in developing skills relevant for postgraduate study or careers in areas such as clinical physiology, biomedical research, healthcare sciences, and science communication. Graduates of this programme are well-equipped to pursue further education, such as MSc or PhD qualifications, or to enter the workforce directly in roles that require a deep understanding of human physiology. The University of Sunderland’s strong links with local healthcare providers and research institutions enhance students’ learning experiences and employment prospects.
Overall, the BSc (Hons) Physiological Sciences provides an in-depth education grounded in scientific research and practical application, fostering the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful career in physiologically-based sciences and health-related professions.
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