Clinical Physiology MSc
Validated by University of South Wales
If you’re ready to advance but don’t want to put your career on hold, our Physiology MSc is your fast track to senior positions. Designed for ambitious healthcare professionals, this master’s in physiology provides the advanced expertise and leadership credentials needed to accelerate your career and open doors to higher-earning roles in clinical practice, research, and healthcare technology—making you a sought-after expert in a rapidly evolving field.
What sets our flexible MSc in physiology apart is the opportunity to conduct a professional project in your chosen area of clinical physiology. This research-focused component allows you to contribute new knowledge to the field and potentially publish your work with support from expert tutors. You’ll have the freedom to explore topics aligned with your career aspirations, whether that’s developing new assessment protocols, evaluating emerging medical technologies, or advancing physiological monitoring techniques.
Next intake: March 2025Key Facts
You’ll develop high-level skills in interpreting complex physiological data, evaluating treatment efficacy, and driving medical innovation—expertise highly valued by pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and research organisations seeking to improve patient outcomes.
With a flexible learning approach, you can earn your physiology master’s while continuing your clinical role—no career pause required. Advance on your terms, achieve your professional goals, and make a meaningful impact on healthcare.
Faculty
Dr Karl New
Dr Karl New is a highly experienced academic specialising in cardiovascular exercise physiology and biochemistry. With an undergraduate degree in Exercise Physiology and a PhD in Cardiovascular Exercise Physiology and...
Validating partner
University of South Wales
The University of South Wales (USW) is a modern, industry focused University located in Cardiff, Newport and Pontypridd in South Wales, UK. It was rated best in the UK for the Health Professions in the Guardian University Guide 2020 and, in the latest Complete University Guide 2022, is in the top 10 in the UK for Health Studies. USW is one of Britain’s largest and most exciting new universities attracting a cosmopolitan mix of students from across the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions
For a full list of our FAQs visit our FAQs page.
As each Medical Council has their own rules/regulations with regard to Postgraduate study we recommend that you contact your local Medical Council with regard to recognition.
Upon completion of the course the University would invite you to a graduation ceremony and provide your certificate which makes no reference to the fact that the course was studied online and is therefore typically recognised the same as any other UK University qualification.
Rest assured, the overall Postgraduate Diploma carries a total of 1,200 CPD points, with the MSc an additional 600 CPD points, and all official certifications are issued directly by the University.
When you study one of our programmes you may be surprised to find that there are no lectures or seminars. Your learning will be self-directed meaning that rather than being told information you find it for yourself (with tutor guidance and support). We do this via a series of clinically rich scenarios which your tutor will post on our academic forum which you and your classmates will research, respond to and discuss.
You will be assessed through the Academic Forum, Reflective Journal and Assignments. Learning will be carried out using our online learning platform: Moodle.
You can study whenever and wherever you want - our programmes are totally flexible to fit around your other work and life commitments.
The course is specifically designed so that part of your study is the application of theory to practice in your day job.
We typically suggest that students aim to log into the Moodle platform daily. We recommend a "little and often" approach for reading, reflection and/or posting. High achieving students will typically spend 1-2 hours dedicated to their studies a day; 10 hours per week is sufficient time to spend on the platform.
Those who cannot dedicate more time than once/twice per week may struggle with the demands of this postgraduate programme.
Yes, everything is done entirely online through our learning platform, Moodle. You do not need to attend the University.
Postgraduate Diploma courses
In order to be eligible for our Postgraduate Diploma courses you need to hold a medical degree or undergraduate degree in a health related science and be working within the field that you wish to study, as the course is designed to further your knowledge within your chosen subject and is not designed to introduce these as new topic areas.
We have two intakes a year in March and September. Click the following link for the up to date application deadlines and module dates: Module Dates.
We currently offer two discounts: the Early Bird Discount and the Action Taker Discount. The Early Bird discount allows you to save up to £500 or more, available only to self-funders and is a limited-time offer that runs for the entirety of November for the March cohort or the entirety of May for the September cohort. Our Action Taker Discount allows you to save up to £150 off for PGCert and £250 off for PGDip/2-year MSc programmes. To qualify for Action Takers, you must pay the deposit within 7 days of acceptance. This discount is not available during February and August and not available in combination with the Early Bird Discount.
For Early Bird Discounts, the discount is visible if your application and acceptance are completed within the required timeframe. For Action Taker Discounts, it will reflect once conditions are met.
Next intake: March 2025 Key Facts
Dr Karl New
Dr Karl New is a highly experienced academic specialising in cardiovascular exercise physiology and biochemistry. With an undergraduate degree in Exercise Physiology and a PhD in Cardiovascular Exercise Physiology and Biochemistry, his research has focused on blood pressure regulation post-exercise, endothelial function, and the role of nitric oxide and oxidative stress.
With over a twenty years of teaching and research experience at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, Dr New has contributed extensively across Clinical and Exercise Physiology, Biochemistry, and Biomedical Sciences, leading development of numerous courses spanning these disciplines. He is also a reviewer for a number of physiology journals including American Journal of Hypertension, Frontiers in Physiology.
As a key academic link between Learna and the University of South Wales, Dr New has played a pivotal role in curriculum development, ensuring that Learna’s Clinical programmes are aligned with the latest industry advancements.
Passionate about bridging the gap between academic research and clinical application, Dr New is dedicated to equipping healthcare professionals with the physiological expertise required for modern clinical practice. His leadership in this programme reflects his commitment to advancing education and supporting professionals in understanding the intricate relationship between physiology, disease, and patient care.
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Why Study a Physiology Master's with Learna
We have over 10 years’ experience delivering online courses, giving you access to flexible, affordable distance learning in partnership with world-leading educators.
100% Flexible
Our courses are 100% online. No fixed study times mean you can log in and learn whenever and wherever.
Multidisciplinary - study in a group of doctors, nurses, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals.
Expert Led
All of our programmes are authored and developed by world leading experts in their field.
Our faculty are selected due to their subject expertise, experience and teaching abilities to ensure the highest standards of educational excellence.
Career Boosting
Get a University Validated postgraduate qualification in just 1 calendar year instead of 2 academic years.
40% of our alumni reported an increase in salary 2 years after studying with us.
Who is this course for?
This Clinical Physiology MSc is designed for ambitious healthcare professionals seeking to advance their understanding of human physiological systems and their application in clinical practice. It is particularly suitable for:
General Practitioners (GPs): This Physiology MSc enhances GPs' ability to assess and manage complex physiological conditions, providing advanced knowledge in diagnostic interpretation and treatment evaluation. The programme enables them to lead in implementing innovative approaches to patient care and contribute to clinical research in primary care settings.
Nurses: Our MSc in physiology equips nurses with advanced physiological assessment skills and deep understanding of monitoring technologies, enabling them to take on specialist roles, contribute to research, and lead in the implementation of evidence-based interventions across various healthcare settings.
Pharmacists: The programme strengthens pharmacists' understanding of physiological processes and their interaction with therapeutic interventions. This advanced knowledge enables them to excel in clinical research, drug development, and the evaluation of treatment efficacy in complex cases.
Allied Health Professionals: For physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and other AHPs, this MSc provides advanced expertise in physiological assessment and monitoring. This knowledge enhances their ability to design and implement evidence-based interventions, particularly in rehabilitation and chronic disease management.
Clinical Researchers: Researchers will advance with the skills needed to design and conduct physiological studies, evaluate medical devices, and contribute to technological innovations in healthcare. This is particularly valuable for those working in pharmaceutical companies, biotech firms, and research organisations.
How Will I Learn?
You'll learn through our flexible, interactive online platform, which allows you to engage with clinical cases, complete assignments, and collaborate with fellow students at times that suit your schedule. There's no fixed timetable—simply log in daily to participate in the week's activities.
Learn through engaging discussion
Our teaching approach is highly interactive, using small groups of 10-20 students to foster a collaborative environment where you can engage in thoughtful discussions and receive guidance from your tutor. You'll have access to learning resources and discussion forums that encourage ongoing interaction and deeper engagement with the material.
Throughout your studies, you'll receive support from a dedicated expert tutor and our Student Support Team, ensuring you have the resources needed to navigate the course successfully.
Curriculum
Year 1
Aim of the module:
Develop advanced knowledge of cardiovascular system physiology and pathophysiology and its application to clinical practice.
__Learning Outcomes: __
- Critically evaluate the mechanisms of physiological function and control in the human cardiovascular system, integrating knowledge to interpret the progression from normal homeostasis to pathophysiology.
- Analyse advanced cardiovascular pathophysiological processes, interpreting complex clinical manifestations and emerging therapeutic interventions.
Module Content:
- Cardiovascular Physiology – The Heart as A Pump
- Cardiovascular Integration and Regulation
- Vascular System Physiology
- Haemodynamics and Microvascular Control
- Cardiac Pathophysiology and Disease
- Circulatory System Pathophysiology and Disease
Aims of the module:
Develop advanced knowledge of respiratory system physiology and pathophysiology and its application to clinical practice.
Learning Outcomes:
- Critically evaluate intricate respiratory control mechanisms, synthesising advanced understanding of gas exchange, ventilation, and systemic respiratory interactions.
- Examine the pathophysiological processes underlying respiratory diseases and their implications for clinical interventions.
Module Content:
- Respiratory Physiology – Lungs and Mechanics of Breathing
- Respiratory Physiology – Ventilation & Perfusion
- Respiratory Physiology – Gaseous Exchange
- Pulmonary Regulation
- Respiratory Pathophysiology
- Respiratory Disease
Aims of the module:
Develop advanced knowledge of renal system physiology and pathophysiology and its application to clinical practice.
Learning Outcomes
- Critically analyse sophisticated renal regulatory processes, integrating evidence to appraise the shift from normal homeostasis to pathophysiological states.
- Investigate the underlying pathophysiology of renal diseases and their application to complex clinical scenarios.
Module Content:
Renal Physiology – Functional Role of the Kidneys
Renal Physiology – Filtration, Reabsorption and Secretion
Renal Physiology – Fluid Balance
The Kidneys and Acid-Base Balance
Renal Pathophysiology
Renal Disease
Aims of the module:
Develop advanced knowledge of endocrine and metabolic system physiology and pathophysiology and its application to clinical practice.
Module Learning Outcomes
- Critically evaluate intricate endocrine regulatory networks, synthesising knowledge of complex interactions between metabolic pathways and systemic physiological responses.
- Assess the pathophysiological mechanisms of endocrine and metabolic disorders and synthesise their integration into clinical practice.
Module Content:
- Hypothalamus and Pituitary Gland Control
- Thyroid & Parathyroid Physiology
- Adrenal Physiology
- Pancreas and Metabolic Physiology
- Endocrine Pathophysiology
- Endocrine and Metabolic Disease
Aims of the module:
Develop advanced knowledge of neurophysiology and pathophysiology and its application to clinical practice.
Learning Outcomes
- Interpret the functional organisation and control of neurophysiological systems, linking theoretical insights to the development of pathophysiological conditions.
- Critically appraise the pathophysiology of nervous system disorders, integrating this understanding into advanced clinical applications.
Module Content:
Neural Communication In Vivo – Excitable Cells
Somatic Nervous System
Autonomic Nervous System
Proprioception and Motor Control
Pathophysiology of the Nervous System
Nervous System Disease
Aims of the module:
Evaluate and synthesise evidence on the effects, benefits and prescription of exercise in acute and chronic diseases, critically analysing its impact on population health.
Develop advanced knowledge of environmental and applied clinical physiology and its application to clinical practice.
Learning Outcomes
- Critically evaluate the role of exercise in managing acute and chronic conditions across diverse populations, applying current research to optimise evidence-based exercise interventions.
- Critically analyse complex interactions between exercise, environmental factors, and clinical physiological responses, constructing advanced interdisciplinary clinical management strategies.
Module Content:
- Acute and Chronic Physiological Responses to Exercise
- Role of Exercise in Prevention & Treatment of Disease
- Exercise Prescription and Programmingin Clinical Populations
- Environmental Physiology
- Environmental and Integrated Clinical Physiology
- Interdisciplinary and Applied Clinical Physiology
Year 2
Aims of the module:
Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal-
To prepare students for an independent research-based project by developing skills in selecting, appraising, discriminating, using evidence and appropriate research/investigative methods to address relevant topics for investigation.
Professional Project-
To formulate the research question that you seek to answer. To develop an ability to critically evaluate areas of professional practice. To critically appraise specific areas of clinical, research and organisational practice. To develop skills in independent research and study. To develop skills relevant to scientific publications.
Content summary:
Research Methodologies and Critical Appraisal-
Indicative content to include topics outlined below and/or any other relevant current topics to fulfil the module aims and learning outcomes.
Topics may include:
- Quantitative Studies
- Statistical Analysis Interpretation
- Interpreting the Evidence
- Meta-analysis and Systematic Reviews
- Qualitative Studies
Evidence Appraisal: Interpreting, Weighing and Synthesising the Evidence
Audit, Governance and Quality Improvement, Health Economics
Preparing a Research Proposal: Research Committees, Consent, Ethics, Probity and Literature Review
Professional Project
This module will depend on the creation of a piece of work based upon a specific clinically related project relevant to the student’s practice. This project may comprise:
- Systematic literature review and appraisal of the evidence.
- Audit of non-patient data/organisational audit
- Review and implementation of evidence-based practice.
- Literature review and qualitative or quantitative research proposal.
- Case(s)-based and quality of service review with critical appraisal.
- Case report, review of literature and organisational assessment.
- Secondary data analysis.
Assessment Methods
This programme emphasises learning through active participation in case-based discussions, reflection, and real-life scenarios. Students engage with clinical cases that mirror everyday practice, fostering problem-solving and evidence-based application from the very beginning.
Across the modules, assessments are integrated with learning. Each week, you will work through two to three clinical cases, discussing and reflecting on them with peers under the guidance of an expert tutor. These discussions form the core of your learning and are also the basis for your assessments.
Our innovative teaching methods are designed to help you translate this learning into real-world clinical practice. You'll need to regularly log in to participate in discussions, ideally on a daily basis, and commit approximately two hours per day to your studies. Our dedicated Student Support Team is available to assist with any challenges you may encounter, from navigating our online platform to managing deadlines.
How Foundational Knowledge is Developed
The programme is structured so that foundational knowledge is introduced through carefully designed clinical cases. Each case is crafted to highlight essential concepts and progressively deepen your understanding as you apply critical thinking and evidence-based analysis. This hands-on approach ensures that you are not only acquiring theoretical knowledge but also learning how to apply it in a practical, clinical setting.
This programme is suited for professionals who thrive in an online, discussion-based learning environment. Please note that this course focuses on interactive, applied learning through peer collaboration and case discussions. You will be fully supported, encouraged and led through the programme to success and graduation!
Year 1
- Case problems reflective of day-to-day practice/research will be presented for the students to consider and answer every week.
- Students discuss the concepts being presented in the case within their online group discussion forum, facilitated throughout the module by their tutor and marked by them at the end of the module.
- The content of the academic forum is based on the learning outcomes for the module.
This can be either a Group Activity or an Individual Activity:
Group activity
Designed to stimulate and test the students’ ability to work as a team in taking the subject area forward. A group task is set, the group elects a leader using the online forum and the leader allocates tasks to group members. The leader is responsible for managing, collating and submitting the activity (online) at the end of the module. The tutor provides formative guidance part way through the module and marks the assessment at the end.
or
Individual activity
Designed to stimulate and demonstrate personalised learning, creativity and problem solving with application to each student’s own practice area.
Examples of individual activities might include either a written assignment, developing an academic poster presentation, a blog or social media project.
All students must complete the same assignment for each module which is pre-determined by the Programme Leader before the modules commence.
The online reflective journal is a learning portfolio that requires students to record and critically reflect on their learning. Reflection is an important aspect of the programme since the professionals will be able to spend time considering how their practice compares to the themes being discussed in the module. The tutor provides feedback to the student weekly and marks it at the end of the module. Reflective practice is a requirement for healthcare professionals for professional re-validation and professional development.
- Case problems in the form of a one-hour timed examination with multiple-choice questions directly test the reasoning and knowledge objectives of the module.
- The online exam is marked automatically.
- The examination tests related theory and problem-solving skills.
Year 2
This module runs over an 8 week period and is designed to develop skills in critical appraisal and knowledge of research methodologies. The module consists of mandatory formative assessment activities to support your learning and development prior to the Professional Project module.
Students will work with their supervisor to submit a professional project proposal for their chosen topic.
Students will deliver an abstract (1000 words) outlining their proposal and, if deemed necessary, develop and submit documentation for the University’s ethical committee approval.
- Students will create a dissertation, the theme of which has been developed in discussion with their tutor.
- Supervision will normally involve direct online support involving planned progress, supporting research activity and reading student work.
- Supervisors and students will agree on a communications plan, which may involve emails or online chats. Some students may employ the use of freely available chat or audio conferencing facilities for live discussion with supervisors.
- Students will have access to online forums where they can develop their research capabilities together.
- All communications with tutors will be logged on the Professional Project forum by the student, and consist of brief summaries of discussion.
Entry requirements
Since our courses are conducted entirely online, they are accessible to both UK and international registered healthcare professionals.
Applicants will typically hold a first degree or equivalent (including international qualifications) in a relevant professional healthcare field, such as a medical or nursing degree.
Registered healthcare professionals without these recognised qualifications will be considered on an individual basis and a wide range of prior experience may be taken into account. In some cases, applicants may be asked to submit a piece of work for assessment in order to confirm that they are able to work comfortably at postgraduate level, and demonstrate the requisite clinical and professional knowledge.
Documents Required
- A copy of your updated CV including your address and date of birth.
- A copy of your undergraduate degree certificate.
- The name and email address of someone who is able to provide a reference, this can be a work colleague, employer or former tutor.
- A detailed personal statement explaining why you would like to undertake the course.
- A copy of your proof of English competency (see below).
English Language Requirements Proficiency in the English language is also essential to completing our courses. If English is NOT your first language, we ask for proof of competency during the application process. We are able to accept an IELTS overall score of 6.0 (with a minimum of 5.5 for each band) or an equivalent qualification.
If you do not meet these requirements, please don’t worry. The run a number of English Language Programmes at the Centre for International English to prepare you for your academic studies. You can also contact our admissions team on admissions@diploma-msc.com for more information on the qualifications we accept.
Should you have already successfully completed the 1 year Postgraduate Diploma and wish to convert to the MSc and complete only the second year of the programme this is possible. Please contact our admissions department admissions@diploma-msc.com to find out more.
Should you have already successfully completed the 1 year Postgraduate Diploma and wish to convert to the MSc and complete only the second year of the programme, this is possible. Please contact our admissions department admissions@diploma-msc.com to find out more.
Course Fees
- Deposit for March 2025: £750 †
- Total Course Fees for UK & International Students for March 2025: £8,400 ††
Payment Options
- Option 1: Upfront Payment in full. Pay-in-full discount is available.
- Option 2: Apply for Interest-free payments each month for the duration of the course.
Payment Plan Breakdown
First Year Payments
| Deposit | 10 Monthly Payments | Final Payment |
| £750 † | £340 | £350 |
Total first year payments: £4,500
Second Year Payments
| 11 Monthly Payments | Final Payment |
| £325 | £325 |
Total second year payments: £3,900
You may also be interested in:
- Spread the cost with Lendwise, who offer financing options for up to 8 years. ††††
† Deposits are non-refundable
†† Prices are subject to review following each intake
†††† Subject to eligibility criteria.
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Why Learna
We have over 10 years’ experience delivering online diploma courses, giving you access to flexible, affordable distance learning in partnership with world-leading educators.
Our courses are some of the most affordable of their kind, providing value for money without compromising on quality. We also don't apply an international surcharge. No fixed timetable means you can log in & learn on the go, at your convenience.
Being totally online means we can select the very best tutors and resource editors, no matter where they’re located.
Connect with multidisciplinary people around the world to expand your insights & broaden your career prospects.
Our programmes produce 90% fewer emissions than campus-based learning.
