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¸£Àû±ÆÕ¾ Catalog 2025-2026

Physiology

The Physiology Graduate Program is an interdisciplinary and interdepartmental program comprising faculty drawn from across the ¸£Àû±ÆÕ¾. An advanced degree in Physiology is highly valued by the scientific community and can lead to careers in research and teaching in academia, industry and government laboratories, public policy and consulting. Research is carried out using a variety of model organisms, laboratory and companion and agriculturally important species.

Master's Degree Requirements

All Master's students are required to complete ±Ê±á³ÛÌý503, ±Ê±á³ÛÌý504, µþ°ä±áÌý553, and a one-credit hour course in research ethics.ÌýÌýMaster of Science Degree:  For a Master of Science degree a minimum of 30 semester hours of graduate work in the degree program is required including a minimum of 20 hours of course work at the 500-800 level. On average, the M.S. degree takes two to three years to complete. Master of Physiology Degree: The non-thesis Master's degree (Master of Physiology) requires a total of 36 credits. The median time to degree completion is 1.75 years or less.

Student Financial Support

Financial assistance for qualified students in the form of research assistantships, fellowships and traineeships is available through participating departments only and not through the Physiology program for thesis-based students only.

Recommended Courses Normally Included in Programs of Study for the M.S Degree and the Non-Thesis MOP Program

Other recommended/supporting courses are available through many departments, e.g. Animal Science, Biochemistry, Biomathematics, Biotechnology, Cell Biology, Comparative Biomedical Sciences, Entomology, Genetics, Immunology, Microbiology, Nutrition, Pharmacology, Poultry Science, Psychology, Statistics, and Toxicology, and may be included for consideration in the academic plan.

Other Relevant Information

Graduate students enrolled as Physiology majors are housed in the department of their major professor and may participate in departmental activities.

Admission Requirements

Students entering the graduate program in Physiology should have a Bachelor's degree in a related biological or physical science. Undergraduate courses should include Physiology, Biochemistry, Organic Chemistry, Calculus, and Physics. Each application package will be screened by the Admissions Committee. Factors considered for admission include: grade point average (3.0 is required for regular admission), GRE scores, undergraduate courses, letters of recommendation, and the willingness of a member of the Graduate Physiology faculty to serve as the applicant's advisor. 

Applicant Information

  • Delivery Method: On-Campus
  • Entrance Exam: None
  • Interview Required: Yes

Application Deadlines

  • Fall: January 15 (priority); April 15 (Early); June 15 (Final)
  • ³§±è°ù¾±²Ô²µ:ÌýOctober 15
  • Summer 1: January 15
  • Summer 2: April 15

Faculty

Full Professors

  • Glen William Almond
  • Kenneth E. Anderson
  • Betty L. Black
  • Anthony T. Blikslager
  • Russell J. Borski
  • David C. Dorman
  • Frank W. Edens
  • Kenneth L. Esbenshade
  • Charlotte E. Farin
  • William Lucas Flowers IV
  • John E. Gadsby
  • Troy Ghashghaei
  • Jody L. Gookin
  • Sung Woo Kim
  • Matthew D. Koci
  • Hsiao-Ching Liu
  • Christian Maltecca
  • Kathryn Montgome Meurs
  • Paul Edward Mozdziak
  • Jack Odle
  • Heather Patisaul
  • Robert M. Petters
  • Shannon Elizabeth Phillips
  • Richard M. Roe
  • Paul David Siciliano
  • Geoffrey W. Smith
  • Jeffrey A. Yoder

Associate Professors

  • Luke B. Borst
  • Babetta Ann Breuhaus
  • Jose Manuel Bruno-Barcena
  • John Edward Meitzen
  • Marianne Niedzlek-Feaver
  • Marcelo Rodriguez-Puebla

Practice/Research/Teaching Professors

  • Elaine B. Bohorquez
  • Hanna Gracz
  • Jeong Dae Lee
  • Jane L. Lubischer
  • Shweta Trivedi

Adjunct Faculty

  • Bartosz Kempisty

Emeritus Faculty

  • Talmage T. Brown Jr.
  • Warren J. Croom Jr.
  • Robert M. Grossfeld
  • Harold F. Heatwole
  • Thomas E. Levere
  • John F. Roberts
  • Malcolm C. Roberts
  • Thomas David Siopes
  • Herbert A. Underwood
  • Steven Paul Washburn
  • Michael David Whitacre
  • Thomas G. Wolcott

Courses

±Ê±á³ÛÌý503ÌýÌýGeneral Physiology IÌýÌý(3 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Physiology is the study of the how living systems function from the molecular to organismal level. As such, this course will build on your knowledge of anatomy, biochemistry, and cell biology and also presumes a working knowledge of the basics of college level physics and chemistry. Students will learn the fundamental mechanisms underlying normal function of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems of the human body and be able to integrate knowledge and concepts from various organ systems to explain function in the human body. In this course, we will address cellular, neural, muscular, and gastrointestinal physiology in humans.

P: BCH451 and BCH553 (or equivalents) and one year each of college-level physics and chemistry

Typically offered in Fall only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý504ÌýÌýGeneral Physiology IIÌýÌý(3 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Physiology is the study of the how living systems function from the molecular to organismal level. As such, this course will build on your knowledge of anatomy, biochemistry, and cell biology and also presumes a working knowledge of the basics of college level physics and chemistry. Students will learn the fundamental mechanisms underlying normal function of cells, tissues, organs, and organ systems of the human body and be able to integrate knowledge and concepts from various organ systems to explain function in the human body. In this course, we will address cardiovascular, respiratory, and renal physiology in humans.

P: BCH451 and BCH553 (or equivalents) and one year each of college-level physics and chemistry

Typically offered in Spring only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý505ÌýÌýPathophysiologyÌýÌý(2 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Pathophysiology is one of the bridge courses between basic medical science and clinical medicine: it plays an important role in basic medical courses, concerning the etiology and pathogenesis of disease as well as the mechanisms of functional and metabolic alterations in disease. Different from pathology, which emphasizes the morphological changes, pathophysiology focuses on the functional and metabolic alterations and mechanisms underlying the development of diseases. This discussion- and presentation-based course will focus on developing written and oral communication skills through the use of case studies.

R: Physiology Program Students Only

Typically offered in Spring only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý524/±Ê°¿Ìý524ÌýÌýComparative EndocrinologyÌýÌý(3 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Basic concepts of endocrinology, including functions of major endocrine glands involved in processes of growth, metabolism and reproduction.

Typically offered in Spring only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý552/´¡±·³§Ìý452/´¡±·³§Ìý552ÌýÌýComparative Reproductive Physiology and BiotechnologyÌýÌý(3 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Comparative approach to examining aspects of reproductive physiology in selected vertebrate species. Detailed examination of current reproductive biotechnologies and ethical issues associated with the application of reproductive biotechnologies. Credit will not be given for both ´¡±·³§Ìý452 and ANS (PHY) 552.

Typically offered in Spring only

This course is offered alternate even years

±Ê±á³ÛÌý574ÌýÌýMusculoskeletal Physiology, Palpatory Anatomy and Dynamic KinesiologyÌýÌý(3 credit hours)ÌýÌý

This is a hybrid, interdisciplinary course designed for graduate students preparing for a career within the health professions. This course focuses on the concepts and principles of palpatory anatomy and kinesiology of the musculoskeletal system and associated structures through the development of skilled palpation as a fundamental component of effective manual therapy techniques with an emphasis on how muscles and joints interact based upon their structure and function. By definition, palpation requires physical contact (touching) in order to locate anatomical structures for diagnostic purposes. Therefore, due to the nature of the activities in this class, it is necessary to have some amount of physical contact occur between yourself, class participants, and instructor(s). Students should come to this class with an understanding of the close relationship between structure, function, and movement in the human body and with an appreciation for, and comfort level associated with, palpatory diagnostic techniques.

Restriction: Graduate Standing in Physiology

Typically offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý578ÌýÌýExercise Physiology and Sport ScienceÌýÌý(3 credit hours)ÌýÌý

This course will cover basic principles of human anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics and their relationship to exercise, sport science, health professions and athletic coaching.

Prerequisite: Admitted to the Master of Physiology Program

Typically offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý595ÌýÌýSpecial Topics in PhysiologyÌýÌý(1-6 credit hours)ÌýÌý

The study of special problems and selected topics of current interest in physiology and related fields.

Typically offered in Spring only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý601ÌýÌýPhysiology SeminarÌýÌý(1 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Weekly seminars on topics of current interest given by resident faculty members, graduate students and visiting lecturers.

Prerequisite: Graduate standing

Typically offered in Spring only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý610ÌýÌýSpecial Topics In PhysiologyÌýÌý(1-6 credit hours)ÌýÌý

The study of special problems and selected topics of current interest in physiology and related fields.

Prerequisite: Graduate standing

Typically offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý620ÌýÌýSpecial Problems In PhysiologyÌýÌý(1-6 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Credits Arranged

Prerequisite: Graduate standing

Typically offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý685ÌýÌýMaster's Supervised TeachingÌýÌý(1-3 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Teaching experience under the mentorship of faculty who assist the student in planning for the teaching assignment, observe and provide feedback to the student during the teaching assignment, and evaluate the student upon completion of the assignment.

Prerequisite: Master's student

Typically offered in Fall and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý690ÌýÌýMaster's ExaminationÌýÌý(1-9 credit hours)ÌýÌý

For students in non thesis master's programs who have completed all other requirements of the degree except preparing for and taking the final master's exam.

Prerequisite: Master's student

Typically offered in Summer only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý693ÌýÌýMaster's Supervised ResearchÌýÌý(1-9 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Instruction in research and research under the mentorship of a member of the Graduate Faculty.

Prerequisite: Master's student

Typically offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý695ÌýÌýMaster's Thesis ResearchÌýÌý(1-9 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Thesis Research

Prerequisite: Master's student

Typically offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý696ÌýÌýSummer Thesis ResearchÌýÌý(1 credit hours)ÌýÌý

For graduate students whose programs of work specify no formal course work during a summer session and who will be devoting full time to thesis research.

Prerequisite: Master's student

Typically offered in Summer only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý699ÌýÌýMaster's Thesis PreparationÌýÌý(1-9 credit hours)ÌýÌý

For students who have completed all credit hour requirements and full-time enrollment for the master's degree and are writing and defending their thesis.

Prerequisite: Master's student

Typically offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý702/´¡±·³§Ìý702ÌýÌýReproductive Physiology of MammalsÌýÌý(3 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Survey of reproductive strategies among vertebrates; in-depth coverage of mammalian reproductive physiology; gametogenesis, fertilization, embryonic and fetal development, parturition, puberty, neuroendrocrine control mechanisms in male and female mammals.

Prerequisite: ZO 421

Typically offered in Fall and Spring

±Ê±á³ÛÌý764/°äµþ³§Ìý764/±·°Õ¸éÌý764ÌýÌýAdvances in Gastrointestinal PathophysiologyÌýÌý(3 credit hours)ÌýÌý

This course will focus on advanced gastrointestinal physiology and the pathophysiology of deseases of relevance to scientsts involved in animal-related research. In particular, the course will cover the pathophysiology of ulceration, infectious diarrhea, ischemia, motility disorders, and inflammatory diseases of the gut. An in-depth review paper will be required based on recent literature rgarding a specific gastrointestinal disease.

Typically offered in Fall only

This course is offered alternate odd years

±Ê±á³ÛÌý795ÌýÌýSpecial Topics in PhysiologyÌýÌý(1-9 credit hours)ÌýÌý

The study of special problems and selected topics of current interest in physiology and related fields.

Typically offered in Fall and Spring

±Ê±á³ÛÌý801ÌýÌýPhysiology SeminarÌýÌý(1 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Weekly seminars on topics of current interest given by resident faculty members, graduate students and visiting lecturers.

Prerequisite: Graduate standing

Typically offered in Spring only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý810ÌýÌýSpeical Topics In PhysiologyÌýÌý(1-4 credit hours)ÌýÌý

The study of special problems and selected topics of current interest in physiology and related fields.

Prerequisite: Graduate standing

Typically offered in Fall and Spring

±Ê±á³ÛÌý820ÌýÌýSpecial Problems In PhysiologyÌýÌý(1-6 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Credits Arranged

Prerequisite: Graduate standing

Typically offered in Fall and Spring

±Ê±á³ÛÌý885ÌýÌýDoctoral Supervised TeachingÌýÌý(1-3 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Teaching experience under the mentorship of faculty who assist the student in planing for the teaching assignment, observe and provide feedback to the student during the teaching assignment, and evaluate the student upon completion of the assignment.

Prerequisite: Doctoral student

Typically offered in Summer only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý890ÌýÌýDoctoral Preliminary ExaminationÌýÌý(1-9 credit hours)ÌýÌý

For students who are preparing for and taking written and/or oral preliminary exams.

Prerequisite: Doctoral student

Typically offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý893ÌýÌýDoctoral Supervised ResearchÌýÌý(1-9 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Instruction in research and research under the mentorship of a member of the Graduate Faculty.

Prerequisite: Doctoral student

Typically offered in Fall and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý895ÌýÌýDoctoral Dissertation ResearchÌýÌý(1-9 credit hours)ÌýÌý

Dissertation Research

Prerequisite: Doctoral student

Typically offered in Fall and Summer

±Ê±á³ÛÌý896ÌýÌýSummer Dissertation ResearchÌýÌý(1 credit hours)ÌýÌý

For graduate students whose programs of work specify no formal course work during a summer session and who will be devoting full time to thesis research.

Prerequisite: Doctoral student

Typically offered in Summer only

±Ê±á³ÛÌý899ÌýÌýDoctoral Dissertation PreparationÌýÌý(1-9 credit hours)ÌýÌý

For students who have completed all credit hour requirements, full-time enrollment, preliminary examination, and residency requirements for the doctoral degree, and are writing and defending their dissertations.

Prerequisite: Doctoral student

Typically offered in Fall, Spring, and Summer