Master of Science in Medical Physiology: Program Structure & Overview

Program Structure:

The Master of Science in Medical Physiology is a coursework-based program to be completed in one academic year (2 semesters).  The program consists of core courses and electives which will total 30 credit hours. 

Coursework Overview:

Coursework consists of a series of core classes in physiology, pathophysiology, anatomy, and histology followed by electives consisting of more advanced didactic coursework in physiology or a laboratory research elective.

Physiology is the fundamental basis of medicine. Physiology emphasizes understanding the mechanisms of life by integrating molecular, cellular, tissue, organ, and whole-body function. This integrated approach is what sets physiology apart from other biomedical disciplines. The physiology courses predominantly focus on the mechanisms of healthy body functions and normal responses to the environment and the pathophysiology courses will provide an opportunity to learn more about the mechanisms of disease. The anatomy and histology courses complement the physiology course and provide an understanding of the structure of cells, tissues and organ systems so that the function of these systems can be fully understood.  Students will have the opportunity to elect to focus on advanced topics in physiology or engage in research (availability of electives will be dependent on cohort size).  The content of all courses will integrate and provide a rigorous core curriculum in medical physiology mirroring the learning objectives of the first year of medical school. 

Fall Semester:

PSIO 6110-MEDICAL PHYSIOLOGY I (8 credit hours)

• Principles of Medical Physiology
• Medical Cardiovascular Physiology
• Medical Pulmonary Physiology
• Medical Renal Physiology

PSIO 6710 - Pathophysiology I (2 credit hours)

PSIO 6410 - Medical Anatomy (2 credit hours)

PSIO 6510 - Medical Histology (2 credit hours)

PSIO 6610 - Seminar (1 credit hour)

Spring Semester:

PSIO 6810-MEDICAL PHYSIOLOGY II (6 credit hours)

• Medical Endocrinology
• Medical GI Physiology
• Neurophysiology

PSIO 6720 - Pathophysiology II (2 credit hours)

PSIO 6610 - Seminar (1 credit hour)

Elective (Choose Didactic or Research track, electives are dependent on availability):

Didactic Electives (6 total credit hours)

• PSIO 7110 - Advanced Cell & Molecular Physiology (2 credit hours)
• PSIO 7210 - Advanced Renal Physiology (2 credit hours)
• PSIO 7310 - Advanced Cardiovascular Physiology (2 credit hours) 

Research Elective (6 credit hours)

• PSIO 7410 - Research (6 credit hours)