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

Autumn Songs: A Korean Jazz Performance with Jordan VanHemert and Band
Oct9
Autumn Songs: A Korean Jazz Performance with Jordan VanHemert and Band Oct 9 Kalapuya Ilihi
Ten Years Since Obergefell: Past and Present Fights for LGBTQ Rights
Oct9
Ten Years Since Obergefell: Past and Present Fights for LGBTQ Rights Oct 9 William W. Knight Law Center
Organic/Inorganic/Materials Chemistry Seminar: Quantum-Confined 1D Lepidocrocite Titanates and Their Exceptional Properties
Oct10
Organic/Inorganic/Materials Chemistry Seminar: Quantum-Confined 1D Lepidocrocite Titanates and Their Exceptional Properties Oct 10 Willamette Hall
Beyond the Dissertation: Preparing for the Academic Job Market
Oct10
Beyond the Dissertation: Preparing for the Academic Job Market Oct 10 Straub Hall
Music at the Charleston Marine Life Center
Oct11
Music at the Charleston Marine Life Center Oct 11 Charleston Marine Life Center
How to: Resume and Cover Letter Tips (Workshop)
Oct13
How to: Resume and Cover Letter Tips (Workshop) Oct 13 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
WGSS Presents: “Writing Queer Women’s History: Finding A Place of Our Own” Talk and Light Reception with June Thomas
Oct14
WGSS Presents: “Writing Queer Women’s History: Finding A Place of Our Own” Talk and Light Reception with June Thomas Oct 14 Erb Memorial Union (EMU)
Experiential Learning Opportunity Scholarship - Student and Alumni Panel
Oct14
Experiential Learning Opportunity Scholarship - Student and Alumni Panel Oct 14 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches)
Oct15
Resume Extravaganza! (Drop-In Resume Reviews with Career Coaches & Peer Coaches) Oct 15 Willie and Donald Tykeson Hall
2026 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program Info Session
Oct15
2026 Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program Info Session Oct 15 Condon Hall