Physiology with a Modern Language: The University of Manchester

Course description

Physiology is the study of function in animals and humans. A major challenge to Physiologists in this the post-genomic era, is to determine the function of the many uncharacterized proteins encoded by the human genome. This will involve understanding how these proteins influence the activity of cells, tissues and the whole organism in health and disease.

Physiology in Manchester has undergone a renaissance over the last few years. Many new appointments have been made at both junior and senior level. Furthermore in March 2006 Physiologists from the Faculties of Life Sciences and Medicine moved in to purpose built laboratories in the new Core Technology Facility building. Their teaching programme is designed to enable them to teach about the research activities of these scientists in theirr final year units, which include: The Cardiovascular System in Health and Disease; Clinical Endocrinology; Cell and Molecular Physiology; Human Reproductive Biology.

The third year of this four year programme is the language placement year, during which students complete a project in a research institution in a country that speaks their chosen language. It is possible to study this programme with French, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, German or Japanese.

Career opportunities

Physiology graduates from the University of Manchester go into a variety of careers. About half stay in the life sciences and related disciplines, choosing either to study further research or taught courses such as a Masters or PhD, which could lead onto a career in bioscience, or medicine/dentistry degrees. A significant number go on to complete a science teaching qualification, such as a secondary science PGCE. Graduates from 'with a modern language' programmes are extremely desirable to employers who require significant relevant work experience. In the growing field of international bioscience research collaborations, graduates with a good command of a foreign language are at a distinct advantage.

Those that choose a career outside of the life sciences are highly sought after by large multinationals. Graduate programmes in accountancy, finance, law, marketing and publishing are particularly popular choices for graduates from the Faculty who do not wish to stay in science.

Entry requirements

• English language: Either GCSE grade C, IELTS 6.5 (with not less than 6.5 in any component) or an equivalent qualification.
• A level: Grades AAB-BBB. This should include:
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Maths and
  • 1 of Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Maths, Geography, Psychology, Environmental Studies or PE.
• Unit grade information: The University of Manchester welcomes the provision of unit grade information which, like all other available information, will inform the consideration of applications.
• GCSE: Minimum grade C in English Language and Mathematics.  An A* in a language at GCSE is required.
• Key Skills qualification: The University warmly welcomes applications from students studying the Key Skills qualification.
• International Baccalaureate: 35-32 points overall including 5 or 6 points in Biology and Chemistry at Higher level.