Medical Physiology BSc Honours

Program Overview

The Medical Physiology BSc Honours program at Middlesex University equips students with a deep understanding of human physiology and the functional responses of body systems in extreme environments. Through hands-on practical learning and research methods, graduates gain the knowledge and skills to assess human health, body function, and performance under adverse conditions, preparing them for careers in applied physiology, clinical science, and the health and fitness industry.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Focus: This program provides students with a theoretical understanding of human physiology and the functional responses of body systems in extreme environments like high/low temperatures, prolonged exercise, or simulated space settings.
• Objective: Equip graduates with the knowledge and practical skills to assess human health, body function, and performance under adverse conditions.
• Approach: Students engage in hands-on practical learning, using cutting-edge equipment and research methods to understand and address health and performance challenges.

Outline:

Year 1 - Compulsory

• Cell Sciences (30 credits): Explores the classification, structure, and function of cells and microbes, along with associated disease processes.
Introduces laboratory techniques for cell and microbe study.
• Physics and Measurements (15 credits): Covers basic physics and mathematics principles relevant to instrumentation used in the program and for physiological measurements.
• Clinical Technology and Mathematics (15 credits): Provides students with the essential mathematical and statistical skills required for healthcare science practice.
• Human Sciences (30 credits): Examines human anatomy, physiology, and the concept of homeostasis to understand how healthy structure and function are maintained and how homeostasis failures lead to disease.
• Research Methods and Professional Development (30 credits): Develops core research skills, analytical techniques, and scientific writing abilities in preparation for the final year project module.

Year 2 - Compulsory

• Cardiopulmonary Science (30 credits): Explores the cardiovascular and respiratory systems from molecular to systemic levels, covering health, disease, and associated monitoring techniques.
• Medical Instrumentation and Imaging (30 credits): Provides knowledge and understanding of principles and properties behind diverse measurement techniques used in physiological assessments.

Year 3 - Compulsory

• Dissertation (30 credits): Allows students to pursue individual interests within the field, conduct independent research, and further develop research, analytical, and critical thinking skills.
• Human Performance Assessment (30 credits): Examines integrative physiological responses, adaptations, and limits of human performance under challenging environmental conditions, along with relevant monitoring techniques.
• Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing (30 credits): Equips students with the knowledge and practical skills to conduct safe, clinical exercise testing, evaluate results in patients with various conditions, and contribute to clinical practice.
• Neurophysiological Assessment (30 credits): Provides practical knowledge and skills in electroencephalogram (EEG), electromyogram (EMG), and nerve conduction studies (NCS) for diagnosing neurological and neuromuscular diseases and conducting neurophysiology research.

Assessment:

The program utilizes various assessment methods, including:

• Continuous assessments: Regular coursework, assignments, practical work, and reports contribute to the final grade.
• Examinations: Written and oral exams assess knowledge and understanding of key concepts and theories.
• Dissertation: Evaluation includes research proposal, project execution, and final report writing, ensuring strong research and communication skills are demonstrated.

Teaching:

• Approach: The program uses a blend of lectures, seminars, workshops, practical sessions, and independent study.
• Teaching staff: Experienced academics and clinical practitioners actively engage with students, sharing their expertise and industry insights.
• Facilities: Students benefit from access to dedicated laboratories, simulation suites, specialist research spaces, and the Sheppard Library, promoting hands-on learning and effective study.
• Unique aspects:
• Industry connections:
Strong relationships with prestigious NHS trusts provide opportunities for practical placements and professional development.
• Specialist equipment: Students gain experience using cutting-edge clinical and research equipment for assessing cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, and musculoskeletal systems.
• State-of-the-art facilities: Access to the StoneX Stadium, including specialist labs, simulation suites, and research spaces.

Careers:

• Potential career paths:
• Applied Physiologist
• Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise Physiologist
• Cardiopulmonary Exercise Testing
• Clinical Scientist (specialization in cardiac science or neurophysiology)
• Exercise Physiologist
• Typical employers include:
• Armed forces
• NHS
• Health and fitness industry
• Research centers
• Academic institutions
• Medical device companies
• Pharmaceutical companies

Other:

• Program duration: 3 years full-time or 4 years part-time
• Course leader: Dr Lygeri Dimitriou
• Study mode: On-campus
• Location: Hendon campus
• Program accreditation: Approved by the Health & Care Professions Council (HCPC)

UK students1 Full-time: £9,250 Part-time: £77 per taught credit International students2 Full-time students: £16,600 Part-time students: £138 per taught credit