Explore UCD

UCD Home >

PERS10170

Academic Year 2025/2026

Human Physiology (PERS10170)

Subject:
Performance Science
College:
Health & Agricultural Sciences
School:
Public Hlth, Phys & Sports Sci
Level:
1 (Introductory)
Credits:
5
Module Coordinator:
Dave O'Neill
Trimester:
Autumn
Mode of Delivery:
Blended
Internship Module:
No
How will I be graded?
Letter grades

Curricular information is subject to change.

This module provides an in-depth exploration of human systemic physiology. The aim of this module is to enable the student to understand the fundamentals of the operation of human organ systems. Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of the structure and function of human cells and various physiological systems, including the sensory, nervous, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, reproductive, immune, and regulatory systems. Emphasis is placed on the interrelationships and homeostatic mechanisms that maintain health and functionality within the human body. Module content will be delivered in the form of lectures supplemented with specific learning activities.

About this Module

Learning Outcomes:

Upon completion of this module students should be able to:
1. Describe the basic structure and function of human cells and body systems
2. Explain the physiological mechanisms underlying homeostasis.
3. Understand the relationship between different body systems such as the sensory, neuromuscular, cardiovascular, respiratory, renal, digestive, endocrine, reproductive, lymphatic and immune systems.
4. Apply anatomical and physiological knowledge to sport and exercise performance.

Indicative Module Content:

Week 1 – Introduction to Module + Physiology 101 (3 hours)

Week 2 - Sensory system (2 hours)

Week 3 - Nervous system (3 hours)

Week 4 and 5 - Musculoskeletal system (3 hours)

Week 5 and 6 - Cardiovascular System (3 hours)

Week 7 – Recap and Mid-term MCQ (Weeks 1-6 inclusive)

Week 8 - Respiratory system (2 hours)

Week 9 – Digestive System (3 hours)

Week 10 - Renal system (2 hours)

Week 11 – Endocrine system and Reproduction (3 hours)

Week 12 – Lymphatic and Immune system (2 hours)

Student Effort Hours:
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

30

Autonomous Student Learning

60

Online Learning

20

Total

110


Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
Lectures

Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 

Assessment Strategy
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Exam (In-person): Week 14 Multiple Choice Questions on learning outcomes Week 14 Alternative linear conversion grade scale 40% No
50
Yes
Exam (Online): Week 7 Brightspace MCQ Week 7 Alternative linear conversion grade scale 40% No
50
Yes

Carry forward of passed components
Yes
 

Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring Yes - 1 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 

Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Group/class feedback, post-assessment

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Week 8's lecture will include feedback on the first MCQ in Week 7.

Widmaier, E., Raff, H. and Strang, K.T. (2022). Vander's human physiology (16th edition). McGraw-Hill US Higher Ed USE.

Timetabling information is displayed only for guidance purposes, relates to the current Academic Year only and is subject to change.
Autumn Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - Autumn: All Weeks Thurs 09:00 - 10:50
Autumn Lecture Offering 1 Week(s) - Autumn: All Weeks Wed 14:00 - 14:50