Physiology

Physiology is a cornerstone of both basic medicine and life sciences. Studying this major in China offers international students access to advanced educational systems and broad career prospects. If you are looking for a program that is both practically applicable and academically rich, Physiology is a valuable option to consider.

Program Introduction

Physiology is a discipline that studies the laws of normal life activities in humans and animals, covering the structure and function of various systems such as the nervous, endocrine, circulatory, respiratory, and digestive systems. 

This program explores the fundamental mechanisms of life at cellular, molecular, and systemic levels, providing theoretical support for medicine, pharmacy, and life sciences. As an essential component of basic medical sciences, physiology plays a significant role in training research and teaching professionals.

Training Objectives

1. Cultivate high-level professionals who are well-rounded in moral, intellectual, and physical development, with a solid theoretical foundation and systematic knowledge in physiology;
2. Familiarize students with scientific research methods and enable them to engage in teaching and research in the field of physiology;
3. Develop rigorous scientific attitudes and professional ethics, emphasizing the coordination of knowledge, skills, and comprehensive quality;
4. Master a foreign language, with strong listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, and the ability to read foreign literature in the discipline proficiently;
5. Maintain physical and mental health to meet the needs of teaching and research work.

Who is this major suitable for?

• Students with a passion for biology, basic medicine, and life sciences;
• Those with strong logical thinking, scientific analysis abilities, and research interest;
• Individuals aiming for careers in academia, research institutes, hospitals, or biotech/pharma companies;
• Learners who are diligent, detail-oriented, and committed to in-depth academic study.

Study Mode and Duration

This is a full-time master's program with a standard duration of 3 years and a maximum period of study of 4 years.

Curriculum

Practical Training

Teaching practice is an essential component of postgraduate training. In the second academic year, master's students in physiology are required to participate in teaching practice. 

Under the guidance of their supervisors, students must undertake at least 16 hours of undergraduate experimental course instruction and participate in group lesson preparation, report grading, exam question design, and grading. 

This helps them become familiar with all aspects of teaching and develop basic teaching skills to improve teaching effectiveness. Assessment will be conducted by a panel of faculty members, and students who pass will earn 2 credits.

Training Method

A supervisory system is adopted, with each student assigned a primary supervisor. A supervisory group composed of 3–5 faculty members with at least lecturer-level qualifications from relevant fields may also guide students. 

The program encourages “three types of experiences”: social practice, second campus study, and overseas exchange. Credits earned during second campus or overseas experiences may be recognized as required or elective courses, subject to review and approval by the faculty committee.

Research Directions

1. Digestive Physiology: Studies on gastrointestinal motility, neural and humoral regulation of mucosal secretion, and the interaction between gut sensory nerves and the immune system;
2. Neurophysiology: Research on functions of interneurons and neural networks; neurobiological studies on epilepsy and depression;
3. Endocrine Physiology: Regulation and mechanisms of islet, adrenal gland, and gut endocrine systems; molecular basis and target analysis of metabolic and endocrine diseases.

Degree Conferment

Students who complete all required credits, successfully defend their thesis, and meet the degree award criteria will be granted a Master of Science degree upon approval by the university’s degree evaluation committee.

Career Development

Graduates may pursue careers in universities, research institutions, hospitals, and pharmaceutical companies, engaging in scientific research, teaching, technical development, or management. They may also choose to pursue doctoral studies for further academic development.

Related Majors

• Neurobiology
• Cell Biology
• Molecular Biology
• Basic Medical Sciences
• Pharmacology

Leading Universities in China in This Field

1. Peking University
2. Fudan University
3. Shanghai Jiao Tong University
4. Sun Yat-sen University
5. Nanjing University
6. Wuhan University
7. Xi’an Jiaotong University
8. China Agricultural University
9. Qingdao University
10. Shanxi Medical University

Evaluation of the Physiology Major

The Master's program in Physiology in China is well-regarded for its strong research background, prestigious faculty, and modern laboratory infrastructure. Top universities such as Peking University, Fudan University, and Shanghai Jiao Tong University offer comprehensive and practice-oriented curricula that integrate clinical application and biotechnological advancements.

International students can not only acquire advanced theoretical knowledge but also participate in research projects, academic conferences, and international collaborations. This provides a solid foundation for future careers in medicine, molecular biology, neuroscience, or for pursuing a doctoral degree.

The above provides an overview of the Master’s program in Physiology. Visit the “Major Search” section to explore more details about study programs in China!

Connect with the Riba Team today for tailored advice and full support in applying for scholarships and study programs that suit you.

Riba Contact Information:

• Fanpage: China Scholarship Network
• Hotline: +84 - 888 666 350
• Hotline: +84 - 888 666 152