Graduate training in Physiology

Program Overview

The Physiology Ph.D. program provides an in-depth understanding of the body's structure, function, and regulation. Students engage in coursework, research rotations, and supervised research, culminating in a dissertation. Graduates pursue careers in research, teaching, management, and various industries, including academia, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Objective:
To provide students with an in-depth understanding of the structure and function of the cells and organ systems of the body, as well as the means by which these functions are regulated.
• Overview:
Graduate training in Physiology involves individualized programs of coursework, tutorials, seminars, and supervised research, with emphasis on general physiology. The program culminates in the Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) degree.

Outline:

• Core Courses:
Students must take PHYM 8010 (Journal Club) and PHYM 8020 (Seminar/Research Rounds) each semester in residence.
• Research Rotations:
Research rotations (BMSM 9110 or PHYM 9110) are required in each track, as specified below.
• Dissertation Research:
Following selection of a dissertation sponsor, students register for PHYM 9200 (Research Techniques) each semester until achieving candidacy, and PHYM 9900 (Doctoral Dissertation Research) each semester thereafter until the dissertation research is completed.

Assessment:

• Students must achieve an overall "B" average in physiology courses (core and elective) (GPA ≥ 3.00).
• Elective credits are normally earned only through advanced physiology courses, but upper-level courses offered by other departments may qualify for elective credit with the approval of the physiology program director.
• Only didactic (letter-graded) courses may be used to fulfill elective credit requirements.

Teaching:

• The program employs a variety of teaching methods, including:
• Coursework
• Tutorials
• Seminars
• Supervised research

Careers:

• Graduates with a Ph.D. in Physiology have career opportunities in:
• Research
• Teaching
• Management
• Academia
• Pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries
• Private research institutions
• Government science or regulatory agencies
• Medicine and health care