Physiology

Study in Physiology is offered by the School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health. Units of study in this major are mostly available at standard and advanced level.

Physiology is the science of life. It is the branch of biology that aims to understand the mechanisms of living things, from the basis of cell function through to the integrated behaviour of the whole body and how function is influenced by the external environment.

Human Physiology is a fundamental aspect of medical sciences, integrating understanding from the molecular and cellular levels through to tissues and organs to understand whole body function. The study of physiology combines the use of examples of common body dysfunction that enables a broader understanding of both the normal and abnormal function of the human body. Molecular and cellular physiology investigates how the interactions of molecules (from genome to proteins and metabolism) enable specific functions. Systems or integrative physiology examines the local and distant actions of organs through neural and humoral communication, such as hormones, to sustain the life of an organism. 

About the major

A major in Physiology provides students with a thorough understanding of how the body works. Normal body function and adaptations to environments are covered, as well as the mechanisms associated with pathophysiology that leads to disease. This major is ideal for students seeking to understand the fundamental mechanisms underlying normal physiology and disease processes, and for those interested in identifying targets and strategies to treat disease.

The major also trains students in various general skills such as data analysis, interpretation and communication, project planning, group work, and critical thinking. The study of physiology focuses on understanding the complex and multi-layered interactions within cells, organs, and the entire body, and considering environmental influences, thereby equipping students with big-picture problem solving abilities and critical analytical skills.

Graduates with expertise in physiology and related skills are equipped to pursue a wide range of careers. For instance, their knowledge of physiology can be directly applied to careers in medicine, allied health, research, biomedical engineering, and other fields. Additionally, the generic skills and systems problem-solving approaches developed as a physiology graduate can be utilised in various workplaces, including education and public service.

Requirements for completion

The physiology major and minor requirements are listed in the Physiology unit of study table. The physiology major and minor requirements are listed in the Physiology unit of study table.

On behalf of all the teaching staff involved in the Physiology major, we invite you to further explore our staff and discipline. We welcome you to begin your journey in discovering the discipline of physiology and hope you develop the same passion and enjoyment in discovering how the body functions as we do!

Honours

Honours in Physiology may be undertaken in certain appended honours degrees.  Admission requirements and unit of study information can be found on the Physiology – Honours unit of study table. Read how to apply for honours as a current student.

Contact and further information

Website: Sydney Pharmacy School

Associate Professor Anna Waterhouse
E anna.waterhouse@sydney.edu.au
T +61 2 8627 5648

Dr Jeremy Pinyon
E jeremy.pinyon@sydney.edu.au