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Explore the mechanics of human life and advance your understanding of some of our vital systems in health and disease.
Muscle and bone. Brains and biochemistry. The fuel we consume and the air we breathe. Develop an expert understanding of the systems and organs that make humans tick. Our MSc Human Physiology degree offers a detailed look at physiology, letting you explore the fundamental systems of human life.
On this masters course, you’ll build advanced knowledge of different systems or specialisms. You’ll not only learn how our bodies work, but you’ll also develop the key techniques and technologies for investigating normal and abnormal physiology. From the lab-based work that helps to develop new treatments and therapies to the clinical care that touches (and saves) lives.
You’ll have the opportunity to deep dive into a topic of your choice with an indep...
1 year full-time
Baleigh“I chose this course as I wanted to expand upon my physiology knowledge gained during my undergraduate degree to become a better scientist, further develop my critical analysis and become more employable."
MSc Human Physiology alumni
Our masters in human physiology is based around seven core modules, which you will study over the course of one year.
During the masters, you’ll cover five core modules based around various aspects of human physiology. This includes looking in detail at the musculoskeletal and cardiorespiratory systems and the impact and pathological changes in disease states. You’ll also explore advanced aspects of neuroscience, from fundamental processing in healthy nervous systems to neurological disorders, and nutritional and exercise physiology.
The fifth physiology focussed module is Applied Physiology Techniques. This is where you’ll learn technical skills across a range of physiological research techniques, applying them to current research challenges.
We have designed our Research Methods and Ethics in Biomedical Science module to help you develop advanced research skills. You’ll explore the evidenced-based and ethical frameworks you’ll need to complete your own in-depth, independent research project.
Your final module is your research project. This is your chance to tackle the issues that fascinate you most. With a deep dive into a topic of your choice, your project will help you understand both the process and the communication of scientific enquiry. You’ll be guided through the proposal and review process to equip you with the skills you need to complete an independent piece of research.
We represent one of the highest concentrations of health research excellence ranking 15th in the UK for the power of our health and biomedical research (REF 2021).
We have an international reputation for research into the characteristics, limitations and adaptability of the human body in health and disease through an integrative approach that ranges from molecular biology to whole-body studies.
We conduct basic and translational research to understand biological systems in disease, sensing and detecting by-products of disease and contemporary challenges, including ageing and development of new technologies for personalised medicine.
Our scientists are pioneering new ideas with real-world, global application. You’ll be joining a collaborative community dedicated to improving health and wellbeing, making a positive difference to people's lives.
Whether you've already made your decision about what you want to study, or you're just considering whether postgraduate study is right for you, there are lots of ways you can meet us and find out more about postgraduate student life at Manchester Met.
We offer:
Your studies are supported by a department of committed and enthusiastic teachers and researchers, experts in their chosen field.
We often link up with external professionals too, helping to enhance your learning and build valuable connections to the working world.
These typical entry requirements may be subject to change for the 2025/26 academic year. Please check back for further details.
You’ll need a UK honours degree – normally a 2:2 – or the international equivalent, in physiological, biological, or biomedical science. We might also consider your application if you have an equivalent professional qualification or relevant professional experience.
International students please see mmu.ac.uk/international
Overseas applicants will require IELTS with an overall score of 6.5 with no less than 5.5 in any category, or an equivalent accepted English qualification.
Full-time fee: £12,000 per year. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course providing you complete it in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).
Full-time fee: £22,000 per year. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of your course providing you complete it in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).
A masters qualification typically comprises 180 credits, a PGDip 120 credits, a PGCert 60 credits, and an MFA 300 credits. Tuition fees will remain the same for each year of study provided the course is completed in the normal timeframe (no repeat years or breaks in study).
Lab coats and safety glasses are provided free of charge and are expected to last for the duration of the course. Students will have to purchase replacements for lost or damaged items.
Optional estimate: £11 - £116
You may wish to join The Physiological Society. The level at which you join will depend upon your individual circumstances/ background. The annual cost can vary from £11 to £116.
Optional estimate: £450
Students often choose to buy a laptop for their course (costing approximately £400 depending on specifications) and a printer (costing £50 to £100 including print consumables) but there are numerous drop-in computer facilities and printers across campus, and a laptop loan service available. On campus printing costs start from 5p per page.
The course can pave the way to a wide range of opportunities in areas across healthcare or industry and can also provide a foundation for further specialist study.
Our work with the NHS, clinicians and industry helps us keep our curriculum up to date and relevant, ensuring that our graduates have the skills and knowledge vital for the workplace – and sought after by employers.
Career prospects include, but aren’t limited to:
You’ll have careers support from the moment you join us and for up to three years after you’ve finished your course. We offer a range of services, both in the Department of Life Sciences and through the University’s Careers Service, with dedicated careers and employability advisers you can turn to for guidance and support.
Study in the Dalton building
We've invested £115m into cutting-edge facilities and advanced technology to enhance your learning. With newly refurbished computing labs and interactive study spaces, this redevelopment has been built to prepare students for the modern workplace.
Please contact our course enquiries team.
Get advice and support on making a successful application.
You can review our current terms and conditions before you make your application. If you are successful with your application, we will send you up to date information alongside your offer letter.
Programme review
Our programmes undergo an annual review and major review (normally
at 6 year intervals) to ensure an up-to-date curriculum supported by the
latest online learning technology. For further information on when we
may make changes to our programmes, please see the changes section of our
terms and conditions.
Important notice
This online prospectus provides an overview of our programmes of study
and the University. We regularly update our online prospectus so that
our published course information is accurate. Please check back to the
online prospectus before making an application to us to access the most
up to date information for your chosen course of study.
Confirmation of regulator
The Manchester Metropolitan University is regulated by the Office for
Students (OfS). The OfS is the independent regulator of higher education
in England. More information on the role of the OfS and its regulatory
framework can be found at
officeforstudents.org.uk.
All higher education providers registered with the OfS must have a student protection plan in place. The student protection plan sets out what students can expect to happen should a course, campus, or institution close. Access our current student protection plan.