Course Information
BSc (Hons) (NFQ Level 8)
Full Time – Undergraduate Studies
CAO Code: DN200
CAO Points Range 2019: 521
Length of Course: 4 Years
Average Intake: 400
- O2/H6 in Mathematics
- O2/H6 in a laboratory science (Applied Mathematics, Computer Science or Geography may be used instead of a laboratory science subject) and
- O6/H7 in English, Irish and two other recognised subjects
- A-Level/GCSE
- Other EU Applicants
- Non-EU Applicants
- QQI FET Entry Routes
- Level 6/7 Progression Routes
Why is this course for me?
Physiology is an area of biology related to how the human body works. Physiologists are interested in how the cells and organs of the body operate and how their incredible array of processes co-operate to enable our bodies to function under normal and challenging circumstances. Physiologists are, therefore, at the forefront of medical research and the search for a better understanding of disease processes.
At UCD, Physiology students acquire a thorough understanding of the organs of the body, such as the heart, lungs, kidneys, and how they function, interact and respond to the internal and external environment.
Career & Graduate Study Opportunities
Physiology graduates go on to establish careers in the following areas:
- Biomedical research in the university system or other government-run operations
- Pharmaceutical industry-based research and development
- Clinical trials
- Pharmaceutical industry sales
Physiology graduates regularly gain places on graduate-entry Medicine and other allied healthcare degree courses. UCD provides opportunities for graduate physiological research at the Master’s or PhD level. Research into basic physiological mechanisms takes place but the research focus is on translational research, i.e. the research that enhances our understanding of human disease that leads to advances in the improvement of human health.
What Will I Study
This is a sample pathway for a degree in Physiology. Topics include neurophysiology, metabolic biochemistry, membrane biology, respiratory physiology and cardiovascular physiology.
First Year
- Biology
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
- Optional Science modules
- Elective modules
Second Year
- Physiology
- + 2 Other Science Subjects
- Elective modules
Third Year
- Physiology
- Elective modules
Fourth Year
- Physiology (includes a research project in a laboratory setting)
All Science courses are full time, with many student timetables running from 9.00am to 5.00pm or later. Depending on the subject choices, a weekly timetable can include lectures, practicals and tutorials.
Assessment varies with each module but may comprise continuous assessment of practicals, written exams and online learning activities.
International Study Opportunities
Physiology students have spent time studying at the following universities:
- San Jose State University, USA
- University of Queensland, Australia
Testimonial
“Having come into UCD with no other certainty bar loving biology, DN200 Science really was a great option. I am now in my final year of Physiology and am so glad I chose this subject for my degree. I believe the level of academic teaching is outstanding and I love learning how various systems of the body works, including the heart, lungs and kidneys. My final year project is based on the inflammatory responses of spinal cord injury. UCD has opened a whirlwind of opportunities for me. I am a Student Ambassador and Student Leader, I have acted as a Peer Mentor, been on student society committees and have spent two summers volunteering in Tanzania with UCDVO. I’m really glad I chose UCD and couldn’t imagine myself anywhere else!”
Celine Camon Student