The online Master of Science in Physiology (MSP) at the University of Louisville (UofL) is designed for aspiring healthcare professionals looking to bolster their medical-science knowledge and expertise for career advancement in healthcare or medical research; or in preparation for a terminal degree in medical sciences (i.e., a Doctor of Medicine, Doctor of Dental Surgery, Doctor of Dental Medicine, Doctor of Optometry, Physician Assistant); or for employment in medical-related fields.
Unlike traditional medical-science programs that focus on lectures, followed by memorization and assessment, our unique and fully online curriculum emphasizes comprehension and application of physiologic concepts.
Our adaptive learning approach helps students prepare for success in clinically-based careers as they progress along their professional and academic journey. It provides the tools and support needed for aspiring medical school students in the U.S. or international students seeking to strengthen their medical-science credentials.
The online MS in Physiology is offered through the School of Medicine at UofL.
"Health Science-related careers continue to expand at an accelerated pace. Our program provides a path toward admission into health-professions schools and employment in higher-paying medical-related positions."
Robert Brainard, PhD
Program Director
If you seek a career or advancement in biomedical research, the pharmaceutical industry or health sciences, this master’s program can provide you with essential foundational knowledge, setting you up for success in your profession.
If you plan on pursuing medical school or other health-related professional programs, the online MS in Physiology can enhance your academic qualifications in the biomedical sciences before you apply.
Graduates of this program are well-suited for roles in medical product development, pharmaceuticals and medical device firms, private practices (such as optometry) and medical laboratories.
Some of the specific jobs for professionals with a master’s in physiology program may include:
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment for medical scientists is projected to grow 11%, much faster than average, by 2033. The median annual wage for clinical researchers was approximately $60,000 as of May 2021. With advanced education and experience, salaries can exceed $90,000, especially in specialized roles (bls.gov).
Application Deadline | Term | Start Date |
---|---|---|
August 1 | Fall I | August |
December 10 | Spring I | January |
Note: Admissions are on a rolling basis. The preferred deadlines help you complete the application process on time, be notified of acceptance, and enroll before the term begins. Although admissions are granted for a specific term up to the day classes start, we recommend you submit your complete application well in advance of the preferred deadline, as obtaining transcripts and other materials may take more time.
START YOUR APPLICATION REQUEST INFORMATION
To be considered for admission, applicants must have:
*Required application packet materials include:
*Your Application Portal:
Once you have started the graduate application, you can check the status and review any additional checklist to-do items. Log in to your application using the email address you used to apply for admission and your password. Your checklist items may include additional materials or documentation that facilitate a smooth admissions process. You will also have access to important contact information and next steps after an admissions decision is made.
Students for whom English is not their primary language must show English language proficiency by successfully completing one of the following:
The physiology online master’s program is a 30 credit hour program that incorporates 16 credit hours of core coursework and 14 credit hours of electives. Courses are 100% online, asynchronous and delivered in 8-week terms.
Course | Credit Hours |
---|---|
PHZB 640 Systemic Membrane, Nerve, and Muscle Physiology | 3 |
PHZB 641 Systemic Body Fluids, Heart, and Circulatory Physiology | 3 |
PHZB 642 Systemic Respiratory, Renal, and Acid-Base Physiology | 3 |
PHZB 643 Systemic Endocrine, Reproductive, and GI Physiology | 3 |
PHZB 638 Physiologic Biochemistry of Proteins and Nucleic Acids | 2 |
PHZB 639 Physiologic Biochemistry of Carbohydrates and Lipids | 2 |
Electives (see list below) | 14 |
Minimum Total Hours | 30 |
A student must have at least a 3.0 cumulative GPA to graduate with a Master of Science in Physiology and no more than 6 credit-hours of less than B- in their 30 credit-hour degree program. Students who do not meet these requirements must work with the program/department on approval of a remediation plan.
All electives must be graduate-level courses. Electives may include but are not limited to:
Course | Credit Hours |
---|---|
Electives | |
PHZB 604 Stem Cell Biology and Regenerative Medicine | 2 |
PHZB 607 Principles of Presentations: Self, Science, Interviews | 2 |
PHZB 630 Biomedical Applications of Physiology in the Eye | 2 |
PHZB 608 Physiological Concepts Related to the Metabolic Syndrome | 2 |
PHZB 611 Advanced Human Cardiovascular Physiology | 2 |
PHZB 621 Physiological Adaptions to Exercise, Immobility and Inactivity | 2 |
PHZB 616 Selected Topics in Physiology and Biophysics | 1-4 |
PHZB 644 Cardiopulmonary Clinical Physiology | 3 |
PHZB 645 Gastrointestinal Renal Endocrine Clinical Physiology | 3 |
Yes, you can apply as a non-degree graduate student and take up to 15 credit hours. Non-degree students may pay a different rate than fully online degree students. Please review the published tuition rates for more information.
If you decide to pursue the master’s degree, you will be required to submit a new application for the MS in Physiology program. Credits earned as a non-degree student will be reviewed by the physiology department upon admission to the program. For more information, please contact Jennifer Wells in the Department of Physiology at jennifer.wells@louisville.edu or 502.852.6231.