University of Leicester

What you'll study

This programme provides a broad grounding in human physiology together with molecular and cellular biology, experimental methods and statistics. Teaching combines lectures, small-group seminars and regular laboratory practicals that develop practical skills in physiological measurement, tissue and cell techniques, data analysis and scientific communication.

• Core topics: cellular and molecular physiology, neurophysiology, cardiovascular physiology, respiratory physiology, renal and endocrine systems.
• Supporting subjects: biochemistry, genetics, immunology and pharmacology to place physiological mechanisms in a wider biomedical context.
• Research skills: experimental design, statistics for the life sciences, computing for data analysis and critical appraisal of primary literature.
• Practical work: routine laboratory techniques, human physiology measurements (for example ECG, spirometry, blood pressure), microscopy and tissue-based methods.
• Final-year project: an independent research project supervised by academic staff that can be laboratory- or literature-based and leads to a substantive dissertation and presentation.
• Assessment: a mix of written examinations, coursework, laboratory reports, presentations and the final project.

Entry requirements

Typical entry expectations include A-levels or equivalent with strong performance in at least one science subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Mathematics. Applicants with qualifications such as the International Baccalaureate, BTEC, or recognised international secondary credentials are considered on an equivalent basis.

• Typical A-level offer range: grades reflecting strong achievement, including at least one science — applicants should check current published entry requirements for exact offers.
• International Baccalaureate candidates: competitive total points with science at Higher Level.
• BTEC and other vocational qualifications are considered alongside A-levels; accepted subject combinations vary by year so check the admissions guidance.
• GCSE-level requirements commonly include English and Mathematics at a standard pass level or equivalent.
• Mature applicants and those with relevant laboratory or healthcare experience are welcome; non-standard qualifications and contextual factors are taken into account during selection.

Career prospects

Graduates from Medical Physiology typically enter a wide range of careers across the life sciences and healthcare sectors. The degree provides transferable skills in experimental design, quantitative analysis and scientific communication valued by employers.

• Biomedical and clinical research: laboratory technician roles, research assistant posts in universities, hospitals and industry, or progression to postgraduate research (MSc/PhD).
• Healthcare-related careers: roles in clinical physiology departments, healthcare science (with further vocational training), or progression to professional clinical training programmes such as medicine, physiotherapy or physician associate studies where graduates meet entry requirements for conversion courses.
• Industry and regulation: positions in pharmaceutical or biotechnology companies, clinical trials, regulatory affairs, medical communications and technical sales.
• Further study and teaching: taught master's programmes, professional qualifications, and secondary or vocational teaching after gaining the appropriate certification.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers research-led teaching in biomedical science with access to well-equipped bioscience laboratories and close links to local NHS hospitals and research groups. Students benefit from small-group teaching, laboratory-focused practicals and opportunities to undertake a substantive research project under active researchers.

• Work with academic staff active in physiology and biomedical research, offering expertise across cellular, systemic and translational areas.
• Practical laboratory training and opportunities to develop specialist technical skills valued by employers and postgraduate programmes.
• Support services for academic development, careers advice and accessing placement or research experience during and after the degree.
• Study in Leicester: a university city with good transport links and a strong life-sciences community, making it suitable for students seeking both research and applied career pathways.