Program Overview

Animal and Plant Physiology

The course is divided into two parts, Animal Physiology 7.5 credits and Plant Physiology 7.5 credits.

Animal Physiology

• Module 1, theory and group work 6 credits: The animal physiology section begins with an overview of the diversity of the animal world, followed by analysis of the life processes of multicellular animals, mainly at the level of the organism. The course will provide basic knowledge about the development and composition of organs and organ systems within the animal world, illustrated by a comparison between mammals and various selected animal groups. These may constitute examples of representative adaptations of the animals and their organ systems to their typical living conditions. Connections between cellular mechanisms, form, function and the organism's environment are emphasized.
• Module 2, laboratories, studies of histological sections and theme work concerning physiological principles and adaptations 1.5 credits: In the practical sessions, the student becomes familiar with the anatomy and physiology of humans and selected laboratory animals. The part is performed individually or in a group.

Plant Physiology

• Module 3, theory 5 credits: The plant physiology theory focuses on what is unique in plants and in plant's cells, including growth, anatomy, differentiation, metabolism, photosynthesis, stress physiology and flowering. Emphasis is given to cell growth, synthesis, cell stretching, three genome, gene regulation, plant hormones and natural products. In addition, plant model systems, transformation methods, in vitro culture of plants, tissue-specific expression, and databases relevant to plant biotechnology will be discussed. During the course, various organizational levels will be integrated, from the molecular to ecosystem function (e.g. biotic interactions, herbivory, plant chemistry, balance between growth and defense and the use of plants as detectors for e.g. for chemicals).
• Module 4, laboratories, written work, group discussion and oral presentation of a topic within the scope of the course content. 2.5 credits: In the practical aspects (2.5 credits), training in the working methods of plant physiology is provided.

Course Details

• Type: Course, first cycle
• Study pace: Full time
• Study location: Umeå
• Type of studies: On campus
• Number of credits: 15 credits
• Teaching hours: Daytime
• Language: English
• Application code: UMU-51528

Eligibility

• 20 ECTS from finished courses in Chemistry, including at least 5 ECTS in Biochemistry, or alternatively, 20 ECTS from a combination of finished courses in Chemistry and Physics and/or Mathematics, including at least 5 ECTS in Biochemistry; 30 ECTS from finished courses in Biology, these credits must contain Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Cell Biology.

Selection

• Academic credits

Application and Tuition Fees

• Application fee: SEK 900
• Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 38,075
• Total fee: SEK 38,075

Dates

• Starts: 24 March 2026
• Ends: 7 June 2026

Study Environment

Umeå University offers a vibrant academic community where high-quality education meets groundbreaking research in science, technology, humanities, and the arts. The university is certified as a Healthy Campus, with many initiatives that promote health and well-being. It is also ranked #1 globally in the main categories of Living, Support, and Overall Satisfaction for international students.