Division of Medical Physiology

The Division of Medical Physiology offers a comprehensive range of academic and non-academic services and strives to provide a dynamic, respectful and compassionate work and study environment in which both staff and students are encouraged to develop and thrive. The Division of Medical Physiology promotes a culture of excellence in the learning and teaching of human and animal physiology to undergraduate and postgraduate health sciences students. We conduct relevant and impactful biomedical research and are passionate about making an impact on the community and society we serve and form part of.

We are committed to excellence in teaching and research, developing a new generation of scientists and healthcare professionals who understand the complexities of human physiology. Our approach integrates education, training and research to address health challenges in the African context. We focus on practical application, ensuring that students learn concepts and develop the problem-solving skills required in clinical and research environments.
 

Physiology is the foundation of medicine. It explains how the body functions, adapts and responds to its environment. Our teaching spans all levels of health sciences, from undergraduate training to advanced research degrees. Students in our division engage with the latest developments in cardiovascular health, reproductive research and neuroscience, working alongside experienced lecturers and researchers.

With our new home in the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences’ Biomedical Research Institute (BMRI), we are well-positioned to drive impactful research and education, preparing our students for leadership in health sciences.
 

Contact details
Phone: +27 21 938 9384
E-mail: [email protected] 

Physical address
Tygerberg Campus
Francie van Zijl Drive

“The Division of Medical Physiology promotes a culture of excellence in the learning and teaching of human and animal physiology students."

Our programmes

MBChB Programme

Students explore the physiological mechanisms that sustain life, covering essential cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous, endocrine and digestive systems.

BSc Dietetics, BSc Physiotherapy, Bachelor of Nursing and Midwifery, Bachelor of Occupational Therapy

These programmes introduce students to key physiological concepts, including cellular processes, neurophysiology, metabolism and muscle function, which are critical for their respective health professions.

Postgraduate Programmes

BSc (Hons) in Medical Physiology

This one-year programme introduces research methodology and advanced physiology, preparing students for MSc and PhD studies.

MMed Programme

A self-study physiology course designed to support specialist medical trainees in developing a strong foundation in human physiology for clinical practice.

MSc (Medical Physiology) and PhD (Medical Physiology

These research-driven degrees allow students to investigate physiological processes in depth, contributing to advancements in cardiovascular health, neuroscience and reproductive biology.