Undergraduate Programs

Why Study Human Physiology?  

“The physiology of today is the medicine of tomorrow."  
– Ernest Henry Starling, Physiologist

Human Physiology is home to students who desire strong training in the human body and condition that will prepare them for careers in medicine, allied health professions, and biomedical research. At the undergraduate level, future researchers, educators, physicians, physical therapists, and other health care providers receive comprehensive, multidisciplinary training in the physical, biological, and chemical sciences. The coursework prepares students for entry into most professional health care-related programs. In addition to requiring completion of the core science courses, students are challenged to question critically, think logically, and communicate clearly.



photo of Emily Ma

Experiential Learning

“I currently work as a procedure room technician and medical assistant. It's awesome that I get to apply what I have learned in the Human Physiology program at work.”

—Emily Ma, Human Physiology, current undergraduate student


Human Physiology breathing test

Real-world Experience

Students test physiologic functions on themselves in physiology labs and use human body donors as anatomical models in anatomy labs. After taking our classes, students can apply to be learning assistants to help on the teaching team of future classes. Students can receive credit for research, internships, and practicums.

Experiential Learning


student doing lab test

A Human Physiology Degree Leads to a Career

The major can prepare you to work in many fields. Learn about possible careers and hear from alumni.

Explore Careers


Advising and Academic Support

Schedule an appointment with an advisor and get your questions answered. 

Departmental Advising and Support

Scholarships and Awards

Learn about ways to apply for funding through the Human Physiology department.

Explore Scholarships and Awards


Events

"Los Dreamers"
May29
"Los Dreamers" May 29 Robinson Theatre
"Los Dreamers"
May30
"Los Dreamers" May 30 Robinson Theatre
"Los Dreamers"
May31
"Los Dreamers" May 31 Robinson Theatre
Department of History Spring Showcase 2026
Jun1
Department of History Spring Showcase 2026 Jun 1 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Cinema Studies Presents: Composing Music for Silent Film Masterclass with Brian McWhorter
Jun2
Cinema Studies Presents: Composing Music for Silent Film Masterclass with Brian McWhorter Jun 2 Lawrence Hall
Department of History Coffee Hour
Jun3
Department of History Coffee Hour Jun 3 McKenzie Hall
Filmlandia Screening Series: "Ed's Coed"
Jun3
Filmlandia Screening Series: "Ed's Coed" Jun 3 Straub Hall
Kishalay Bhattacharya: "The Middle East Crisis in India"
Jun4
Kishalay Bhattacharya: "The Middle East Crisis in India" Jun 4 Student Welcome Center
GrEBES Spring Seminar—Prof. Lillian Aoki: "Conservation Between the Tides"
Jun4
GrEBES Spring Seminar—Prof. Lillian Aoki: "Conservation Between the Tides" Jun 4 Willamette Hall
"Los Dreamers"
Jun5
"Los Dreamers" Jun 5 Robinson Theatre