Beyond the Classroom: Physiology
Key Resources
Academic Advisors
Visit the NatSci Advising page for contact information and instructions for scheduling an appointment
Department Website
Visit the department website for important updates and information
Major Requirements
Visit the Office of the Registrar's website for detailed information about requirements
Provides preparation in molecular, cellular and organ systems physiology. Intended primarily for those students who wish to pursue careers in research, industry, medicine, or other health-related fields. This major is particularly suitable for students in the life sciences who plan further studies at the graduate or professional level.
Skills and Competencies
- Scientific Inquiry & Research – Apply research methods to study physiological processes and health
issues, using knowledge from biology, chemistry, and physics - Clinical & Laboratory Proficiency – Gain hands-on experience in labs, analyzing physiological data and using equipment to solve health-related problems
- Physiological Systems – Analyze and understand complex physiological systems to address health and disease questions
This Major Could Be For You If:
- You want to know how the human body functions at molecular, cellular, and systemic levels
- You enjoy applying knowledge from biology, chemistry, and physics to solve complex health and diseaserelated problems
Common Questions
Is this major only for students who want to go to medical school?
No. While many students do pursue medical school after completing a Physiology major, the degree is also applicable for other paths. It provides a strong foundation for various professional paths, including roles in hospitals, research labs, and academic institutions.
What makes this major unique?
This major’s focus is on understanding human physiological systems from molecular to systemic levels. It combines rigorous coursework in biology, chemistry, and physics with hands-on laboratory experience, preparing students for diverse careers in research, healthcare, and industry.
Skill Development
Building your skills takes exploration and experience. These opportunities below are options you may be interested in. These are ideas to get you started; you have the freedom to find what aligns with your goals.
Research Opportunities
- Consider faculty-directed research or off-campus summer programs
- Connect with the Undergraduate Research Office for assistance
Work-Based Learning
- Develop professional skills through on- or off- campus work or internships with the help of the Career Services Network
- Gain experience through volunteer work via the Center for Community Engaged Learning
Career Growth
- Engage with NatSci’s Career Exploration workshops and resources
Campus Involvement
- Connect with other students in clubs like the Physiology Society
Education Abroad Ideas
Arcadia Research Abroad (Various Locations)
- 6-8 weeks | Summer
- Direct Enroll
University of Bristol STEM Research Abroad
- 5 weeks | Summer
- Direct Enroll
To get started with Education Abroad and to explore other programs that suit your goals, check out the MSU Education Abroad website or visit the Education Abroad Advising Center.
Career Exploration
Career exploration is all about discovering the paths that align with your interests, personality, lifestyle, values and skills. Remember, your major doesn’t define your career, and the career cluster examples provided are just a starting point—not an exhaustive list. Explore widely, and keep an open mind as you shape your future!
Healthcare Professions
Careers
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Optometry
- Pharmacy
- Allied Health - Occupational Therapy; Physical Therapy; Physician’s Assistant
Health-Affiliated Careers
Careers
- Medical Technology
- Public Health
- Health Education and Promotion
- Patient health information management
Research & Biotechnology
Careers
- Research Scientist
- Clinical Research Coordinator
- Biomedical Technician
- Laboratory Research Assistant
- Biotechnologist
Looking for more options?