1. What is Physiology?
Physiology is the study of how the body's cells, organs and systems work. The discipline deals with everything from the interaction of individual molecules and cells to how intact organisms function in an integrated fashion. Knowledge of Physiology is the basis of effective clinical medical practice. Understanding cell and system physiology holds the key to discovering new ways of preventing and curing disease.
2. What can you do with a Physiology degree?
As is the case in all undergraduate biomedical disciplines, a B.Sc. in Physiology is a useful stepping stone to further education. This may take the form of graduate studies (M.Sc./Ph.D.), not only in Physiology but also in any of the biomedical fields which might lead to research opportunities in Universities, Hospitals, Research Institutes and Industry. A B.Sc. in Physiology also provides excellent preparation for Medicine, Dentistry and other health related professions.
3. Is Physiology right for me?
If you are curious and interested in how the body functions and adjusts to its environment and enjoy challenges, then Physiology is the discipline for you.
4. What programs are available in Physiology?
The Department of Physiology offers a Liberal Program (46/50 credits), Major Program (64/65-68/69 credits), and Honours Program (75-79 credits). We also offer an Interdepartmental Honours Immunology (75 credits), Joint Major Physiology and Physics (82 credits), Joint Major Physiology and Mathematics (79 credits). https://www.mcgill.ca/physiology/undergraduate-studies
5. How do I get accepted into the Physiology Program?
Any student who has been accepted into the B.Sc. Biological, Biomedical & life Science group is admissible into the Department of Physiology. The Honours Physiology and Interdepartmental Honours in Immunology programs are entered in the U2 year. Students interested in these programs must complete an interdepartmental application at the end of their U1 year. These programs each admit 10-12 students a year. The Major Physiology & Physics and the Major Physiology and Math programs are entered in U1 year in the B.Sc. Biological, Biomedical & life group or the Bio-Physical-Computational Sciences group.
6. What is the difference between Physiology and Anatomy?
Anatomy deals with the structural aspects of the body whereas Physiology deals with its functional and regulatory characteristics.
7. Are there research projects within the Department?
There are a number of research project courses that maybe taken for credit. Also, opportunity for summer work and/or volunteering in research laboratories exists. For information, you can consult the Faculty Research web page then contact the professors whose research is of interest to you.
8. Why do I need to see the Departmental Student Affairs Officer/Advisor?
It is important to meet with the Student Affairs Officer/Advisor to make sure you are registered for all appropriate courses and answer any academic questions you may have.
9. Are there any employment opportunities within the department?
Several research laboratories also hire students under the McGill Work Study Program. See link for further information: https://www.mcgill.ca/physiology/undergraduate-studies/awards-employment
10. Is there an Undergraduate Student Society?
Physiology Undergraduate League of Students (PULS) is highly active, widely recognized and honoured in past years as the Student Association of the Year. http://puls.sus.mcgill.ca/