Dive deep into physiology and lead the way in research, discovery and impact.
Why study postgraduate Physiology?
Physiology is the study of how our bodies function, from molecules and cells through to organs and systems. At Otago you’ll explore how living systems maintain balance, adapt and sometimes fail. Understanding normal body functioning is the key to recognising problems and driving breakthroughs in health and medicine. The discipline is vibrant, evolving and full of unanswered questions. With advances in lab methods, imaging, genetics and computational modelling, physiology sits at the frontier of human science. If you are curious about life, driven to inquiry and motivated to apply your knowledge to real-world challenges, postgraduate studies in physiology offer you a chance to be part of something meaningful.
Changes to science masters’ degrees from 2027
From 2027, our science masters' degrees are changing. The Master of Science will be renamed to the Master of Science (Thesis).
Career opportunities
Postgraduate study in physiology opens doors to impactful roles in human health, science and innovation.
Possible career pathways include:
- Research scientist in biomedical or health-sciences laboratories
- Lecturer or academic in physiology or related disciplines
- Specialist in a medical technology, pharmaceutical or biotechnology company
- Consultant or advisor in fields such as space and aviation medicine, sleep science or rehabilitation
- Developer or leader of translational research projects bridging lab to clinic
What it’s like to study at this level
You will learn in a close-knit environment where inquiry, mentorship and hands-on investigation converge. At Otago you’ll work with expert academics and research teams, use advanced laboratory and instrumentation facilities, and engage in a substantive research thesis that drives new insights. Your study will combine structured coursework (for example in neurophysiology, cellular physiology and systems integration) with independent research that you design and carry out. Alongside this you’ll collaborate with peers, present your findings and build the skills to think and act like a scientist.
This is for you if ...
You’ll be well placed to succeed if you already have strong interests in human biology, cellular and molecular sciences, anatomy, physiology or biomedical research and if you’re ready to engage with scientific thinking, experimental design and critical interpretation of data.
Are you just starting uni?
Learn about studying Physiology as an undergraduate at Otago.
Driving innovation in health, disease and human potential
At Otago you will be joining a department with international recognition, a dedicated postgraduate community and access to high-tech research environments. The Department of Physiology offers an array of research lab teams who are actively publishing and collaborating globally. The Dunedin campus offers both a vibrant student culture and an inspiring natural setting — a place where you can focus on deep study while enjoying the unique character of the region. Choosing Otago means choosing an environment where you will be supported, challenged and empowered to make real contributions.
Choose a study option
Whether you are advancing your career with our specialised graduate qualifications or pursuing in-depth research and expertise through our postgraduate programmes, Otago is here to support your aspirations.
Postgraduate qualifications
Honours, masters’, PhDs, and other advanced degrees for graduates. Just one additional year of study will earn you a valuable postgraduate degree. Or perhaps you want the depth of a full year of research-only time during a master’s or to step up to a PhD.
Bachelor of Science with Honours (BSc(Hons))
A four-year degree focusing on advanced study and culminating in a research project in the final year
Postgraduate Certificate in Science (PGCertSci)
A coursework programme, typically consisting of three papers, that can be completed with full-time (one-semester) or part-time (full-year) study
Postgraduate Diploma in Science (PGDipSci)
A one-year programme which builds on an undergraduate science degree, encompassing coursework and a chosen research topic
Master of Science (Thesis) (MSc(Thesis))
A two-year degree with a wide range of subject options. The MSc(Thesis) may be taken by a combination of coursework and thesis, or by thesis only.
Graduate qualifications
Our graduate qualifications are crafted to transition students from foundational studies to advanced, specialised knowledge.
Ready to apply?
Take your expertise to the next level with advanced study.
Programme details
Compare programmes for this subject.
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| Papers (Requirements from 2027) |
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Papers
View a list of all related papers below.
PHSL papers
| Paper Code | Year | Title | Points | Teaching period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PHSL101 | 2026 | Physiology for Sport and Exercise | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| PHSL232 | 2026 | Cardiovascular and Respiratory Physiology | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| PHSL233 | 2026 | Cellular, Gastrointestinal and Renal Physiology | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| PHSL251 | 2026 | Exploring Human Physiology | 21 points | Semester 1 |
| PHSL341 | 2026 | Molecular, Cellular and Integrative Neurophysiology (I) | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| PHSL344 | 2026 | Cardiovascular Physiology | 18 points | Semester 2 |
| PHSL345 | 2026 | Physiological Aspects of Health and Disease | 18 points | Semester 1 |
| PHSL471 | 2026 | Systematic Physiology | 20 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 18 June 2027) |
| PHSL472 | 2026 | Neurophysiology | 20 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 18 June 2027) |
| PHSL473 | 2026 | Cellular Physiology | 20 points | Not offered in 2026 |
| PHSL474 | 2026 | Research Topics | 20 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 18 June 2027) |
| PHSL480 | 2026 | Research Project | 40 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 18 June 2027) |
| PHSL490 | 2026 | Dissertation | 60 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 18 June 2027) |
| PHSL495 | 2026 | Master's Thesis Preparation | 40 points | Full Year, 1st Non standard period (13 July 2026 - 18 June 2027) |
Contacts
Department of Physiology
Faculty of Biomedical Sciences
Email physiology@otago.ac.nz
Department of Physiology website
This information must be read subject to the statement on our Copyright & Disclaimer page.
Regulations on this page are taken from the 2026 Calendar and supplementary material.
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