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Bachelor of Science Honours in Physiological Sciences

Honours degree
ID:
0172_100_N110

The Bachelor of Science Honours in Physiological Sciences focuses on advanced training in physiology, pathophysiology, metabolism and research methodologies. Students complete a research project and elective modules tailored to their academic interests.

Contact information
Ms Grazelda Simon
Departmental Administrator

Programme overview

Duration
One year
Campus
Stellenbosch
Type
Coursework

More information

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When applying

When applying for a postgraduate programme, some may require you to upload additional supporting documents beyond completing the standard application form online. Where such documents are required, more information will appear under the section below titled “Supporting Application Documents.”

Please note that selection for postgraduate programmes is highly competitive. Meeting the minimum admission requirements does not guarantee admission to the programme.

Minimum admission requirements

• A BSc degree with Physiology 314, 334, 344 and 364 with an average final mark of at least 60% for the four modules.
• If you obtained a BSc degree with Physiology at third-year level from another university and obtained a final mark of at least 60%, your application will also be considered. In that case your marks achieved in Biochemistry courses at this same university will also be taken into consideration.

Programme structure

The honours programme consists of compulsory modules (90 credits) and elective modules (30 credits). The department will select the three elective modules for each year, which is then compulsory for the students of the particular year. The lectures build on your existing knowledge of selected topics in physiology that are relevant to lecturers’ research focus areas, and include modules that integrate whole-body and systems physiology with cellular and molecular physiology. The practical component introduces students to a vast array of current and relevant research techniques. The research project is conducted under supervision in one of the Department’s research laboratories. You will receive training in statistical methods, using the internet for research purposes, presentation skills and critical thinking.

Compulsory Modules
(credits = 90)

Subject number | Module code | Credits | Module Name | Semester
13237 774 20 Metabolism in Health and Disease 1
13235 772 20 Physiology and Pathophysiology Both
54895 776 30 Research Project in Physiological Sciences Both
66192 781 20 Research Methodology in Physiological Sciences Both

Elective Modules
(credits = 30)
Departmental staff will select modules to the value of 30 credits from the following list which will be offered in the particular year.

Credits Module Name Semester
13233 771 10 Regenerative Physiology in Injury and Disease 1
13236 773 10 Signal Transduction in Physiology and Pathophysiology 1
11260 775 10 Stress Physiology 1
14067 780 10 Haematology and Coagulation 1

Assessment and Examination
This programme is assessed continuously. The final mark is calculated as a weighted mark according to the credit value of each module. To successfully obtain this honours degree, you must achieve a subminimum of 50% for each module.

Last updated 01 April 2026
Disclaimer:
The University reserves the right to amend the information on this webpage at any time. While every effort is made to ensure that the information provided is accurate and complete, it may be subject to change or become outdated. It remains the responsibility of prospective students to verify all details against the relevant faculty yearbook or directly with the relevant department.

Application dates

South African students
Applications open:
1-Apr 2026
Applications close:
31-Oct 2026

International students
Applications open:
1-Apr 2026
Applications close:
31-Oct 2026