Physiological Sciences
BSc Honours
- UCAS code: B100
- Full time
- 3 years
- Next start date: September 2021
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: £23400
Entry requirements
- A Level: AAA-AAB
- IB: 34-35 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.

COVID-19
Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to COVID-19.
See our terms and conditions for more information
View our Frequently Asked Questions
Quality and ranking
We are a National Centre of Excellence in biomedical research.
- 3rd in the UK – The Times/Sunday Times Good University Guide 2020 (Anatomy and Physiology category)
- 84% for overall student satisfaction - National Student Survey 2019 (subject area Anatomy, Physiology and Pathology)
- top 100 – Anatomy and Physiology category – QS World University Rankings by Subject 2020
Teaching excellence
TEF GoldA ringing endorsement of Newcastle University’s long tradition of excellence in teaching.

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 |
---|---|
Research Project | 40 |
Physiology of the Nervous System | 30 |
Physiology of the Gastrointestinal Tract 1 | 15 |
Integrated Physiology | 10 |
Physiology of the Gastrointestinal Tract 2 | 15 |
Optional Modules | Credits |
---|---|
Business Enterprise for the Bioscientist | 10 |
Health and Illness: Professional and Societal Perspectives | 10 |
Science Communication | 10 |
Bioethics | 10 |
Bioinformatics | 10 |
Research in Physiological Sciences | 10 |
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. 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. 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.
Situated next to Newcastle’s RVI hospital, we’re one of the largest integrated teaching/hospital complexes in the country.
Our facilities include:
- a dedicated medical library with a wide range of specialist books and journals
- large teaching laboratories
- hi-tech computer clusters and study spaces
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.
Your future
Our physiological sciences graduates are in high demand when they complete their degrees, with 100% of our pharmacology graduates going into work or further study within six months of graduating. Their average salary after graduating was £22,630*.
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.
*Destinations of (undergraduate, UK and EU) Leavers from Higher Education Survey 2016/17
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
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
- mock interviews
- CV interviews
- careers clinics
- assistance with applying to medicine/dentistry
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 2021 entry.
A Level
AAA-AAB
International Baccalaureate
34-35 points
Other UK qualifications (and PARTNERS)
Qualifications from outside the UK
English Language requirements
PARTNERS
Through our PARTNERS programme, you could receive an offer up to three grades lower than the typical requirements, and get support throughout the application process. To apply through PARTNERS, you must be based in the UK and meet our eligibility criteria.
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, including Newcastle University London. 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 2021 entry (per year)
Home Fee Students
£9250
International Fee Students
£23400
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.
You will be charged tuition fees for each year of your degree programme (unless you are on a shorter exchange programme).
The tuition fee amount you will pay may increase slightly year on year as a result of inflation.
For courses commencing from September 2021 and beyond, EU, other EEA and Swiss nationals will no longer be eligible for home fees or Student Finance England support.
If you are from the EU you will pay international tuition fees.
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
The situation with Covid-19 means that we're unable to hold Open Days on campus. However, you don’t have to visit in person to experience Newcastle.
From the comfort of your sofa 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.
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
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