Human Physiology

The first two years of your course provide you with an overview of how the different body systems function.

In Year 1 you’ll enhance your understanding by studying subjects that complement physiology, such as neuroscience, pharmacology and cell biology.

You’ll also use a wide variety of experimental approaches in practical classes, from molecular and cell biology to the recording of blood pressure and electrocardiograms.

It may be possible to transfer to Pharmacology, Neuroscience or Medical Sciences after Year 1 (subject to academic approval).

After Year 1 has introduced you to the foundations of biomedical sciences, Year 2 of your degree will see you focus in more depth on the key areas of human physiology. Studying topics such as Experimental Techniques in Physiology and Exercise Physiology, your knowledge will become more specialised, and your research skills will become more advanced.

The degree offers the opportunity to take an industrial placement or study abroad year at the end of Year 2, subject to academic performance, which will help broaden your experience, enhance your skills and improve your employment prospects.

In Year 3, you’ll have the opportunity to study your chosen areas of interest in more depth through a variety of modules that broadly reflect the research expertise at Leeds. These modules include Advanced Scientific Skills and Advanced Topics in Physiology.

In your third year you have the opportunity to focus on your interests through a variety of modules that reflect the research expertise at Leeds, including modules in systems neurophysiology.

The focal point for Year 3 is an independent research project that you’ll carry out under the supervision of a field-leading academic, further developing the transferable skills that will set you apart in the graduate job market.

Integrated Masters (MBiol)

Years 1 and 2 are the same as for the BSc and provide a foundation in the subject.

In Year 3 you’ll study compulsory and optional modules as well as complete a literature research project and a research preparation module that will underpin your final-year research project.

In Year 4 you’ll undertake an extended research project in an original topic while exploring specialised research topics and skills. This is complimented with Masters level modules that will prepare you for a career in research as well as equipping you with the cutting edge expertise needed in the general graduate job market.

Find out more about choosing between an integrated Masters and a BSc degree

Course structure

These are typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our Terms and conditions.

Modules Year 1

Compulsory modules

• Basic Laboratory and Scientific Skills 20 credits
• Biology of the Mind 10 credits
• Introduction to Pharmacology 10 credits
• Basic Laboratory and Scientific Skills 2 20 credits
• Human Endocrinology 10 credits
• Introduction to Physiology 20 credits
• The Basis of Life 20 credits

Year 2

Compulsory modules

• Cardio-respiratory Physiology and Pharmacology 20 credits
• Experimental Skills 10 credits
• Scientific Skills 10 credits
• Exercise Physiology in Health and Disease 10 credits
• Physiology of Absorption and Excretion 10 credits
• Experimental Skills in Physiology 10 credits
• Topics in Physiology 10 credits

Year 3

Compulsory modules

• Advanced Scientific Skills 20 credits
• Advanced Topics in Human Physiology II 20 credits
• Practical Research Skills 20 credits
• Extended Research Project Preparation 20 credits

Year 4

Compulsory modules

• Advanced Research Topics 30 credits
• Extended Research Project 90 credits

For more information on typical modules, read Human Physiology MBiol, BSc in the course catalogue