Physiological Sciences
BSc Honours
- UCAS code: B100
- Full time
- 3 years
- Next start date: September 2022
This accredited Physiological Sciences degree will equip you with the in-depth understanding of human physiology you need to make a difference in your life sciences career and related fields.
Fees (per year)
- Home: £9250
- International: £24600
Entry requirements
- A Level: AAB
- IB: 34 points
UCAS Institution name and code:
- NEWC / N21
Course overview
Our Physiological Sciences degree focuses on the study of the organ systems of the human body and how they control and maintain body function in both normal and pathophysiological states. You'll develop a thorough understanding of how the human body functions in health and disease, from individual molecules and cells, up to the whole organism.
We are a National Centre of Excellence in biomedical research and you will be taught by our world-leading and expert staff, so you will graduate with a cutting-edge knowledge of the industry.
You'll gain a broad and integrated understanding of human body function through our focus on the study of the heart, lungs, kidneys, brain and gastrointestinal tract.
You will cover critical topics in human biomedical and biomolecular biology such as:
- neuroscience
- cardiovascular physiology
- renal physiology
- respiratory physiology
- gastrointestinal physiology
- human anatomy
You're equipped with the knowledge you need for a rewarding career in life sciences in a range of sectors.
Your course during COVID-19
Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption.
Given the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the commitments outlined are subject to guidelines that may be in place from time to time.
View our COVID-19 Study page, which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2022-23.
See our terms and conditions and student complaints information
Quality and ranking
We are a National Centre of Excellence in biomedical research.
- Top 140 for Anatomy and Physiology - QS World University Rankings by Subject 2022
- 24th in the UK – Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022 (Anatomy and Physiology)
- 1st in the UK and 8th in the world for sustainable development – Times Higher Education Impact Rankings 2022
- 65% increase in research power since 2014 – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- 42% of our research is classified as 4* world-leading research – Research Excellence Framework 2021
- Global Top 125 University - QS World University Rankings 2023
Professional accreditation
This degree has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology (RSB).
Accreditation by the RSB recognises academic excellence in the biosciences that educates the research and development leaders and innovators of the future.
All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body.
Additional information
Transfer to our Medicine or Dentistry degrees
There is flexibility to transfer between our degree programmes at the end of the first year if you find your interests change.
You can also apply to transfer to our Medicine or Dentistry degrees. This opportunity is open to UK, EU and international students. It is competitive, with a limited number of places available. Students are selected on the basis of academic performance in the first year, a UCAT score, a personal statement and, if shortlisted, an interview.
Modules and learning
Modules
The information below is intended to provide an example of what you will study.
Most degrees are divided into stages. Each stage lasts for one academic year, and you'll complete modules totalling 120 credits by the end of each stage.
Our teaching is informed by research. Course content may change periodically to reflect developments in the discipline, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback.
Optional module availability
Student demand for optional modules may affect availability.
Full details of the modules on offer will be published through the Programme Regulations and Specifications ahead of each academic year. This usually happens in May.
To find out more please see our terms and conditions.
All of our Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences degrees are divided into two phases:
- phase 1 is shared by all degrees and provides a broad introduction to biomolecular sciences
- phase 2 provides specialist topics relating to your degree
This flexible structure gives you the chance to try a broad range of topics, helping you to see where your interests lie before you specialise.
Phase 1 (Stage 1 and part of Stage 2)
You're introduced to biomolecular sciences through a series of modules.
Phase 2 (remainder of degree)
You'll study topics such as: the physiology of the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract and have the opportunity to undertake research in one of our world-leading research institutes on a subject that interest you, like:
- cardiovascular, respiratory, renal and gastrointestinal physiology
- neuroscience
- obesity
- diabetes
- cancer
- ageing
Modules
| Compulsory Modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| Biochemistry | 15 |
| Genetics | 15 |
| Microbiology and Immunology | 15 |
| Cell Biology | 15 |
| Practical Skills in Biomedical & Biomolecular Sciences 1 | 15 |
| Practical Skills in Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences 2 | 15 |
| Pharmacology | 15 |
| Physiology | 15 |
All of our Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences degrees are divided into two phases:
- phase 1 is shared by all degrees and provides a broad introduction to biomolecular sciences
- phase 2 provides specialist topics relating to your degree
This flexible structure gives you the chance to try a broad range of topics, helping you to see where your interests lie before you specialise.
Phase 1 (Stage 1 and part of Stage 2)
You're introduced to biomolecular sciences through a series of modules.
Phase 2 (remainder of degree)
You'll study topics such as: the physiology of the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract and have the opportunity to undertake research in one of our world-leading research institutes on a subject that interest you, like:
- cardiovascular, respiratory, renal and gastrointestinal physiology
- neuroscience
- obesity
- diabetes
- cancer
- ageing
Modules
All of our Biomedical and Biomolecular Sciences degrees are divided into two phases:
- phase 1 is shared by all degrees and provides a broad introduction to biomolecular sciences
- phase 2 provides specialist topics relating to your degree
This flexible structure gives you the chance to try a broad range of topics, helping you to see where your interests lie before you specialise.
Phase 1 (Stage 1 and part of Stage 2)
You're introduced to biomolecular sciences through a series of modules.
Phase 2 (remainder of degree)
You'll study topics such as: the physiology of the nervous system and the gastrointestinal tract and have the opportunity to undertake research in one of our world-leading research institutes on a subject that interest you, like:
- cardiovascular, respiratory, renal and gastrointestinal physiology
- neuroscience
- obesity
- diabetes
- cancer
- ageing
Modules
| Compulsory Modules | Credits |
|---|---|
| Physiology of the Nervous System | 30 |
| Physiology of the Gastrointestinal Tract 1 | 15 |
| Integrated Physiology | 10 |
| Physiology of the Gastrointestinal Tract 2 | 15 |
We base these figures and graphs on the most up-to-date information available to us. They combine data on the planned delivery and assessments of our courses in 2021-22 with data on the modules chosen by our students in 2020-21.
Teaching time is made up of:
- scheduled learning and teaching activities. These are timetabled activities with a member of staff present
- structured guided learning. These are activities developed by staff to support engagement with module learning. Students or groups of students undertake these activities without direct staff participation or supervision
Teaching and assessment
Teaching methods
You'll learn through a combination of lectures, practical laboratory classes and small group seminars.
You also have the chance to attend optional research talks, aimed especially at first-year students, as part of our biomedicine+ programme.
Assessment methods
You'll be assessed through a combination of:
-
Assessments
-
Coursework
-
Dissertation or research project
-
Examinations – practical or online
-
Practical sessions
Skills and experience
Practical skills
In your final year, you'll work alongside industry-recognised scientists in one of our research institutes while completing your research project.
This will allow you to develop advanced research and scientific skills, while also getting an insight into a career as a researcher.
Business skills
We make sure you have plenty of opportunities to gain work experience to enhance your employability while studying. This includes:
- vacation studentships in a University research laboratory
- paid work in one of our research institutes through our Laboratory Assistant Scheme
- employability ambassador scheme
- student mentoring scheme
Research skills
As a National Centre of Excellence in biomedical research, you're guaranteed an education right at the cutting edge of the discipline, so you'll always be aware of the latest developments and innovations in the field.
Opportunities
Study abroad
Experience life in another country by choosing to study abroad as part of your degree. We offer a wide range of destinations and opportunities for students, and we can help you decide which option would work for you (including free language courses before you go, and helping you apply for funding). You’ll be encouraged to embrace fun and challenging experiences, make connections with new communities and graduate as a globally aware professional, ready for your future.
You can choose to spend up to a year studying at a partner institution overseas. You can even take a summer placement in an overseas research laboratory.
Find out more about study abroad
Work placement
Get career ready with a work placement and leave as a confident professional in your field. You can apply to spend 9 to 12 months working in any organisation in the world, and receive University support from our dedicated team to secure your dream placement. Work placements take place between stages 2 and 3.
You'll gain first-hand experience of working in the sector, putting your learning into practice and developing your professional expertise.
If you choose to take a work placement, it will extend your degree by a year, and your degree title will show you have achieved the placement year. A work placement is not available if you're spending a year studying abroad. Placements are subject to availability.
Facilities and environment
Facilities
You'll be based in the School of Biomedical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences in the Faculty of Medical Sciences at our city-centre campus. The Faculty is also home to Dentistry, Medicine, Psychology and Pharmacy, making it a vibrant environment for learning and research.
Our facilities include:
- a dedicated medical library with a wide range of specialist books and journals
- spacious modern teaching laboratories
- hi-tech computer clusters and study spaces
- cutting-edge research laboratories and equipment facilities
- flexible student social spaces
- being less than two minutes’ walk of the sports centre
Find out about the School of Biomedical, Nutritional and Sport Sciences
Support
You'll have the support of an academic member of staff as a personal tutor throughout your degree to help with academic and personal issues.
Peer mentors will help you in your first year. They are fellow students who can help you settle in and answer any questions you have, when starting university.
We have study skills ambassadors; peers who can help you with your studies including maths support.
We also have Phase Advisors who monitor your academic progress, and in-school Wellbeing Advisors who can help you manage issues affecting you during your studies.
Your future
There is a great demand for graduates in Physiological Sciences in the health services and in industry, particularly leading of working in research teams. Many graduates choose this path.
A large proportion of our graduates also choose to take a further degree, either a medical, dental, master's PhD or teaching qualification, before embarking on permanent employment.
Work in a range of industries
- research and development
- pharmaceuticals
- biotechnology
- education
- healthcare
- chemical
- food and drink
- scientific writing
- financial
- cosmetics and toiletries
Make a difference
Sorry, you need JavaScript to view this video
Careers support
Throughout your studies, there will be many opportunities to engage with industry including:
- site visits
- guest lectures
- employability fairs
- industrial placements
- internships
- advice from industry
Develop your employability with the support of the School through:
- summer placements
- internship opportunities
- SOLAR – a student-led outreach group teaching school children science
- opportunities to participate in clinical work shadowing
- becoming a student rep or ambassador
- mock interviews
- CV interviews
- careers clinics
- earning open badges
- enterprise challenge events
- assistance with applying to medicine/dentistry/postgraduate study
Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.
Visit our Careers Service website
Recognition of professional qualifications outside of the UK
From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK
Entry requirements
All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2022 entry.
A Level
AAB
International Baccalaureate
34 points
Qualifications from outside the UK
English Language requirements
Contextual offers
Through one of our contextual routes, you could receive an offer of up to three grades lower than the typical requirements.
Entrance courses (INTO)
International Pathway Courses are specialist programmes designed for international students who want to study in the UK. We provide a range of study options for international students in partnership with INTO.
Find out more about International Pathway Courses
Admissions policy
This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.
Tuition fees and scholarships
Tuition fees for 2022 entry (per year)
Home Fee Students
£9250
International Fee Students
£24600
The maximum fee that we are permitted to charge for home fee-paying students is set by the UK government.
As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation.
Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.
EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support.
If you are unsure of your fee status, check out the latest guidance here.
Read more about fees and funding
Scholarships
We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See our undergraduate scholarship page for more information.
Year abroad and additional costs
For programmes where you can spend a year on a work placement or studying abroad, you will receive a significant fee reduction for that year.
Some of our degrees involve additional costs which are not covered by your tuition fees.
Find out more about:
Scholarships
Find out more about:
Open days and events
You'll have a number of opportunities to meet us throughout the year at our on-campus and virtual open days.
You'll be able to:
• explore our beautiful campus
• find out about our vibrant city
• discover what students think about studying at Newcastle
You'll also have the opportunity to speak to academic staff and find out more about the subjects you're interested in.
Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually.
We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University. Visit our events calendar to find out when we're visiting your region.
How to apply
Apply through UCAS
To apply for undergraduate study at Newcastle University, you must use the online application system managed by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). All UK schools and colleges, and a small number of EU and international establishments, are registered with UCAS. You will need:
- the UCAS name and institution codes for Newcastle University (NEWC/N21)
- the UCAS code for the course you want to apply for
- the UCAS 'buzzword' for your school or college
If you are applying independently, or are applying from a school or college which is not registered to manage applications, you will still use the Apply system. You will not need a buzzword.
Apply through UCASApply through an agent
International students often apply to us through an agent. Have a look at our recommended agents and get in touch with them.
Get in touch
By phone
Call us on +44 (0) 191 208 3333 and press option 1. Our opening hours are Monday to Friday 10am until 4pm.
Live chat
Our Ncl chatbot might be able to give you an answer straight away. If not, it’ll direct you to someone who can help.
You'll find our Ncl chatbot in the bottom right of this page.
Online
Keep updated
We regularly send email updates and extra information about the University.
Receive regular updates by email