Physiology is the study of study of the functions and mechanisms within living systems from the ionic level up to the whole animal. To maintain healthy function, all of these aspects must operate optimally, including adapting to changes in the internal or external environment. This course will develop your understanding from the ionic level through to the integration of whole systems to sustain life. This will provide a foundation for understanding how often subtle changes can underlie disease, how we are able to treat disease and how future generations of scientists may develop improved and new treatments. You will also study pharmacology, which allows us to understand how molecules from outside or inside the body interact with their molecular targets to influence their behaviour. This is key to our understanding of how drugs are used therapeutically and also how they can be abused, for example, for recreational purposes or to seek sporting advantage. The course is delivered in modules, allowing you some flexibility to focus on areas that align with your developing interests. Over the programme, in addition to subject-specific knowledge, you will gain important transferable skills that will make you an attractive prospect for future employers.

This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting (in part) the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol). Accredited degree programmes contain a solid academic foundation in biological knowledge and key skills, and prepare graduates to address the needs of employers. The accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from accredited programmes meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including subject knowledge, technical ability and transferable skills.