BSc (Human Physiology)
University of Pretoria - Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
Key Information
Campus location
Pretoria, South Africa
Languages
English
Study format
On-Campus
Duration
3 years
Pace
Full time
Tuition fees
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Application deadline
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Earliest start date
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Introduction
BSc (Human Physiology)
Physiologists study the mechanisms by which the body functions from the molecular and cellular levels through progressive differentiation to tissue, organs and systems, and eventually the integrated interactions and control of body functions. This core knowledge is applied in research undertaken to investigate normal and abnormal life processes.
During the first year of study for this degree, students are exposed to a generic range of subjects from the biological and agricultural sciences. In the second year they study physiological systems, which include the neurophysiological, haematological, cardiovascular, pulmonary, renal, nutritional and digestive, endocrinological and reproductive systems), with biochemistry as a compulsory subject. The study program for the third and final year includes a selection of integrated physiology modules, such as exercise and nutrition physiology, cellular and developmental physiology, applied and pathophysiology, higher neurological function and industrial physiology. At the third-year level, students have an opportunity to select elective modules in the program. The BSc (Human Physiology) program will appeal to scientifically minded students who are inquisitive by nature.
Research is undertaken in cooperation with medical teams in private and government research laboratories at, for example, the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), the Medical Research Council (MRC), the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS), pharmaceutical firms, universities, veterinary and industrial institutions, state departments (for example the Department of Health) and health farms. Physiologists also make contributions in the fields of education (as teachers, lecturers and instructors), sports physiology, biostatistics, bioengineering, industrial hygiene, journalism, medical technology and, in the industry, as representatives of pharmaceutical firms.
Admissions
Scholarships and Funding
Several scholarship options are available. Please visit the university website for more information.
Curriculum
Curriculum: Year 1
Fundamental modules
- Academic information management 111
- Academic information management 121
- Language and study skills 110
- Academic orientation 102
Core modules
- Biometry 120
- Plants and society 161
- General chemistry 117
- General chemistry 127
- Introductory genetics 161
- Introduction to microbiology 161
- Molecular and cell biology 111
- Physics for biology students 131
- Mathematics 134
- Mathematics 165
- Animal diversity 161
Curriculum: Year 2
Core modules
- Introduction to proteins and enzymes 251
- Carbohydrate metabolism 252
- Introductory biochemistry 257
- Introductory and neurophysiology 211
- Circulatory physiology 212
- Lung and renal physiology, acid-base balance and temperature 221
- Digestion, endocrinology and reproductive systems 222
- Molecular genetics 251
- Genetic diversity and evolution 261
- Curriculum: Final year
Core modules
- Higher neurological functions 327
- Cellular and developmental physiology 330
- Exercise and nutrition science 331
- Applied and pathophysiology 332
Program Outcome
Total credits: 430