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Online Master of Science in Physiology
(With Medical Applications)

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.

Academic Year Tuition

Tuition, Fees & Aid    

Online MS in Physiology Program Highlights


  • Advance your knowledge in medical-related sciences with a broad, interdisciplinary curriculum designed by expert faculty in UofL’s School of Medicine.
  • Increase the likelihood of admission to a professional-degree program or likelihood of employment in medical-related for-profit companies or other medical-related career opportunities through advanced, graduate-level studies in biomedical applications, biophysics, clinical physiology and more.
  • Balance your studies with work and personal commitments with our flexible, 100% online education.
  • Earn your degree from a nationally recognized academic and R1 research institution.
  • Broaden your career opportunities through career advice from our School of Medicine Dept of Physiology faculty who have trained thousands of past students.
  • Connect with peers, industry leaders and supportive School of Medicine faculty and staff with our unique adaptive learning model.




Online learning video - Online Master of Science in Physiology

"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

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Online MS in Physiology Career Outcomes


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.

Career Opportunities for MS in Physiology Graduates


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:

  • Clinical Technician/Lab Technician
  • Clinical Research Coordinator
  • Medical Product Specialist
  • Medical Researcher
  • Healthcare Consultant

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).

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Online MS in Physiology Application Deadlines


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.

How to Apply for Online MS in Physiology

  1. Start your application for graduate admission
  2. Submit $65 non-refundable application fee
  3. Upload required materials*
  4. Request official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities. Transcripts are only accepted directly from the institution(s) by email: gradadm@louisville.edu (recommended) or mail: University of Louisville, Graduate School, 2211 S. Brook St., Louisville, KY 40292
  5. Create a financial plan

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Online MS in Physiology Admissions Requirements and Materials

To be considered for admission, applicants must have:

  • a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution
  • a minimum undergraduate GPA of 2.8 on a 4.0 scale (applicants who do not meet the minimum GPA may inquire about conditional acceptance)

*Required application packet materials include:

  • a one-page personal statement discussing why you desire a MS degree in Physiology
  • two letters of recommendation from people who are well acquainted with your previous academic work

*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.


Online MS in Physiology for International Students

If you live outside of the United States and intend to complete an online academic program from your home country, be sure to view special requirements for international students.

Students for whom English is not their primary language must show English language proficiency by successfully completing one of the following:

Online MS in Physiology Course Requirements

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

Online MS in Physiology Academic Performance

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.


Online MS in Physiology Electives

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



Online MS in Physiology Course Descriptions


The Online MS Physiology Team





    Department Expertise

    The Physiology Department within the School of Medicine at the University of Louisville has been recognized internationally since the 1980s for microcirculatory research and nationally since 2012 for innovative teaching.

    Seven faculty members teach 19 graduate courses annually across Dental and Medical curricula and serve on national educational committees.

    Ten additional research faculty have been awarded multiple research and training grants and serve on 31 National Grant and 14 International Review committees.

    Online MS in Physiology FAQ


    • Is the online MS in Physiology right for me?
      The online MS in Physiology is an excellent choice if you seek to strengthen your academic credentials in the biomedical sciences before applying to medical school or other health-related professional programs. It also serves as an ideal standalone master’s degree if you need foundational knowledge to advance your career in biomedical research, the pharmaceutical industry or the health sciences.
    • Can I take core physiology courses without earning a degree?

      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.

    • What does the Adaptive Learning Model entail?
      Our approach to teaching and learning aims to personalize students’ academic experience allowing them to interact with the course material and build upon their foundational knowledge. Students can flex their learning style, demonstrate the knowledge they gained and spend more time on the knowledge they still need to acquire through additional course materials.
    • What is the format of the online program?
      The program is fully online, allowing for flexible scheduling. Courses are delivered asynchronously via Blackboard in 8-week terms.
    • Are there any on-campus requirements?
      There are no on-campus requirements.
    • How long does it take to complete the program?
      The program is 30 credit hours and could be completed full-time over 12 months (over three semesters). However, most students are working professionals enrolled part-time, taking 6 credit hours per semester (1 course every 8 weeks) and aiming to finish the program within 2-3 years.

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