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Master of Science in Physiology

A postgraduate masters programme preparing students with the knowledge, practical skills and professional discipline required in Science in Physiology.

Masters

Master of Science in Physiology

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01

Programme Overview

PROGRAMME DESCRIPTION The MSP programme is based on coursework and research. It is possible to move from full-time to part-time study and vice-versa to accommodate any external factors such as financial constraints or domestic commitments. The teaching year is divided into two semesters of roughly equal length. All MSP candidates will be expected to present a minimum of 2 seminars each: the first one, on a general topic (PHY 7301) while the second is the output from their research dissertation (towards the end of the programme). TARGET GROUP The programme is aimed to encourage holders of a minimum of a second-class undergraduate honours degree in relevant subject areas such as Anatomy, Veterinary medicine, Pharmacology, Sports Science, Applied Biology, Dentistry, Pharmacy, Biochemistry, Nursing sciences, Physiotherapy and Zoology, from any recognized Ugandan higher institution. For overseas students, there is a requirement to demonstrate evidence of proficiency in written and spoken English. International qualifications will be checked for appropriate matriculation to Uganda Higher Education postgraduate programmes. PROGRAMME DURATION The minimum period of study for the MSP degree is four (4) Semesters for full-time and six (6) semesters for part-time students. Thus, full-time students are expected to complete their program within two years, and in no more than three years. The MSP programme is based on coursework and research. It is possible to move from full-time to part-time study and vice-versa to accommodate any external factors such as financial constraints or domestic commitments. The teaching year is divided into two semesters of roughly equal length. Candidates who are deficient in certain areas will be advised to undertake the Postgraduate diploma programme before starting the MSP courses. All MSP candidates will be expected to present a minimum of 2 seminars each: the first one, on a general topic (PHY 7301) while the second is the output from their research dissertation (towards the end of the programme).

Clinical formationBuild competence through biomedical foundations, practical sessions and supervised health-sector exposure.
Patient-centred careDevelop safe, ethical and compassionate approaches to health service delivery.
Research awarenessUse evidence, inquiry and analytical thinking to understand problems and propose solutions.
Career readinessPrepare for employment, further study, entrepreneurship and service in relevant professional settings.
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What You Will Learn

By the end of the programme, students are expected to demonstrate the knowledge, practical skills and professional conduct required for effective work in Science in Physiology.

Scientific foundationsApply biomedical, behavioural and professional knowledge to health-related decisions.
Practical competenceDevelop practical skills through laboratory, clinical or field-oriented learning.
Patient and community focusUnderstand health needs across individuals, families and communities.
Professional ethicsPractise with safety, accountability, documentation and respect for people.
Research and evidenceUse evidence-informed reasoning to improve practice and solve problems.
TeamworkWork effectively with peers, supervisors and multidisciplinary teams.
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Course Structure and Learning Experience

The learning experience is organised to move students from foundational knowledge into applied, supervised and professionally oriented practice.

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Foundation sciences

Students begin with the scientific and professional foundations required for health training.

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Pre-practice preparation

Learning moves into practical, laboratory or simulated tasks that prepare students for supervised practice.

03

Applied practice

Students engage with discipline-specific practical work, field exposure or clinical learning where applicable.

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Community orientation

The programme connects professional practice with prevention, service and community realities.

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Research and professional readiness

Students consolidate learning through research, professional conduct and career preparation.

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Course Content

22 courses 75 credit units

Academic Year 1

14 courses | 46 units
Semester 1
23 units
FBS 7101 Biostatistics
4 units | Basic
FBS 7102 Research Methods and Bioethics
3 units | Basic
FBS 7103 Cellular and Molecular Biology
4 units | Basic
PHY 7101 General Principles of Cellular Physiology and Excitable Tissues
3 units | Core
PHY 7102 Principles of Animal Experimentation
3 units | Core
PHY 7103 Blood, reticulo-endothelial and immune system
3 units | Core
PHY 7104 History of Physiology
3 units | Core
Semester 2
23 units
BCH 7212 Clinical Biochemistry
3 units | Core
PHA 7208 Introduction to Molecular Pharmacology & Pharmacogenomics
3 units | Core
PHY 7201 Control Systems I - Endocrine physiology
4 units | Core
PHY 7202 Control Systems II - Neurophysiology
4 units | Core
PHY 7203 Physiological Basis of Diseases
3 units | Core
PHY 7204 Laboratory rotations and Practical Physiology
3 units | Core
PHY 7205 Seminar on Current Topics in Physiology
3 units | Core

Academic Year 2

8 courses | 29 units
Semester 1
18 units
PHY 7302 Reproductive Physiology
3 units | Core
PHY 7303 Cardiovascular Physiology
3 units | Core
PHY 7304 Gastrointestinal Physiology
3 units | Core
PHY 7305 Renal Physiology
3 units | Core
PHY 7306 Respiratory Physiology
3 units | Core
PHY 7307 Comparative and Environmental Physiology
3 units | Core
Semester 2
11 units
PHY 7401 Proposal, data collection & processing
5 units | Core
PHY 7402 Research Dissertation
6 units | Core
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Admission Requirements

To qualify for a Master’s Degree programme, a candidate should have obtained a Bachelor’s Degree from a recognized Institution of Higher Learning with a minimum of Second Class Lower Division.

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Fees and Application Guidance

Tuition, functional fees and any programme-specific charges are confirmed by KIU Admissions and Finance for each intake. Applicants should review the current fee schedule before submitting an application.