Program Overview

BSc in Human Physiology, Genetics and Psychology

Programme Information

The BSc in Human Physiology, Genetics and Psychology programme is offered by the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences. Physiologists study the mechanisms by which the body functions, from the molecular and cellular levels through progressive differentiation to tissue, organs, systems, and eventually the integrated interactions and control of body functions.

During the first two years of study, students are exposed to fundamental core scientific and biology-related modules. Final-year studies include modules from all three disciplines (Physiology, Genetics, and Psychology), thus creating opportunities to continue with postgraduate studies in any of the three disciplines. The Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology, Genetics and Psychology programme is recommended for individuals with a passion for biological and related sciences who wish to gain core knowledge in these fields.

The structuring of the programme, which allows students to choose any one of three majors for postgraduate studies, is quite unique. Another notable feature is the transdisciplinary inclusion of Psychology as a humanities module, which offers additional opportunities.

Career Opportunities

Many of the career options for graduates in Bachelor of Science in Human Physiology, Genetics and Psychology are research-orientated. Research is performed in cooperation with medical teams in private and government research laboratories, pharmaceutical firms, universities, veterinary and industrial institutions. Graduates of this degree also contribute to education (teachers, lecturers, and instructors), sports physiology, biostatistics, bioengineering, biotechnology, microbiology, virology, industrial hygiene, scientific journalism, medical technology, and sales representatives of pharmaceutical firms. Further studying also opens the opportunity to become genetic counsellors and psychologists.

Faculty Notes

All modules will only be presented in English, which is the University's official language of tuition, communication, and correspondence.

The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences is home to more than 6,500 undergraduate and postgraduate students. The Faculty presents degrees in fields ranging from the proverbial A to Z from actuaries to zoologists, and consists of 13 departments.

All degree programmes are designed to develop problem-solving individuals who can easily adapt to changing circumstances and take the lead in their chosen fields of specialisation. The qualifications awarded are of world-class and provide access to a multitude of career opportunities for dynamic and creative people.

Admission Requirements

• Achievement level
  • English Home Language or English First Additional Language: 5
  • Mathematics: 5
  • Physical Sciences: 5
  • APS: 32

Life Orientation is excluded when calculating the APS.

Applicants currently in Grade 12 must apply with their final Grade 11 (or equivalent) results.

Applicants who have completed Grade 12 must apply with their final NSC or equivalent qualification results.

Please note that meeting the minimum academic requirements does not guarantee admission.

Minimum Duration

The minimum duration of the programme is 3 years, full-time.

Closing Dates

• South Africa: 30/06/2025
• International: 30/06/2025