Physiology

Physiology is an area of biology related to how the human body works. Physiologists are interested in how the cells and organs of the body operate and how their incredible array of processes co-operate to enable our bodies to function under normal and challenging circumstances. Physiologists are, therefore, at the forefront of medical research and the search for a better understanding of disease processes.

At UCD, Physiology students acquire a thorough understanding of the organs of the body, such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, and how they function, interact and respond to the internal and external environment.

Information on pathways, internships and careers is available in the Undergraduate Courses Brochure (PDF).

Physiology is one of the degree subjects in the Biological, Biomedical & Biomolecular Sciences stream of the common entry Science course. After meeting the requirements for their preferred stream(s) in first year and studying at least two subjects in second year, students submit their degree subject preferences. While we aim to accommodate student preferences, places can be competitive. 

For more information on choosing a degree major at the end of Second Year, visit the Biological, Biomedical & Biomolecular Sciences stream page.

This is a sample set of modules that a Physiology student could study each year in UCD.

First Year

Biology in Action • Life on Earth • Cell Biology and Genetics • Biomedical Sciences • The Basis of Organic and Biological Chemistry • Mathematics for the Biological and Chemical Sciences

Second Year

Chemistry for Biologists • Molecular Genetics and Biotechnology • Biomolecular Laboratory Skills • Introduction to Physiology: Cells and Tissues • Organs and Systems Physiology

Third Year

Cardiovascular Physiology • Respiratory Physiology • Digestion, Absorption and Excretion • The Brain and Motor Control • Endocrine/Reproductive Physiology • Experimental Physiology • Biostatistics • Immunophysiology

Fourth Year

Fundamentals of Physiological Research • Physiology Journal Club • Adaptation to Hypoxia • Brain Disorders • Physiological Genomics • The Physiology of Disease • Physiology Research Project • Exercise Physiology

Timetables & Assessment

Each student will have their own timetable based on their individual module selection. This is a full time course and classes may include lectures, practicals and tutorials, depending on the subjects. Students will also be expected to study independently (autonomous student learning). Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.

Physiology students have spent time studying at San Jose State University in the USA, the University of Vermont and the University of Queensland in Australia.

Physiology graduates pursue careers in areas such as biomedical research in the university system or other government-run operations, pharmaceutical industry-based research and development, clinical trials, and pharmaceutical industry sales. Students can pursue a taught master’s or research master’s in universities in Ireland or abroad in any physiology discipline or a diverse range of medical, healthcare or other biological areas. Graduates can pursue a PhD in universities in Ireland or abroad in any physiological discipline or a diverse range of medical or other biological areas.

Students have the opportunity to complete a Professional Placement module worth 5 credits. This module provides students with an opportunity to undertake a placement in industry (6-10 weeks) in the summer following Third Year. Students have also completed research projects as part of the UCD School of Medicine Student Summer Research Awards competition.

More information about the internship module and application process.

• Level 5/6 QQI-FET


• Open Learning Entry Route


• Mature Entry Route


• DARE Entry Route


• HEAR Entry Route


• University Access

"I chose UCD Physiology because of its state-ofthe-art facilities and excellent lecturers. Physiology has helped me understand the human body as an interconnected system, exploring individual organs and their functions while also considering their role in the human body as a whole. I had the privilege of being selected by UCD to undertake a Summer Undergraduate Research Programme in The Chinese University of Hong Kong where I studied the role of the microbiome in autism spectrum disorder. Physiology gave me a strong foundation to learn from throughout my research. What I've enjoyed most about my course is the ability to connect with lecturers and experts to further my understanding. I was also the Auditor of the Science Society, organising events for the scientific community in UCD. "

Nicolas