Master's Degree in Integrative Biology and Physiology
Our Mission
In the Department of Integrative Biology and Physiology we strive to educate students in physiology concepts, guides students in basic science research and other scholarly pursuits and to prepare students for careers in the health sciences. As we disseminate knowledge of physiological processes that span molecular mechanisms to whole organism functioning, we contribute to the health and success of our department, our professional programs, our university and the state of Minnesota.
Why a Master's Degree in Physiology?
Human physiology programs are growing across the United States as the interest in clinical careers, basic science research, and biomedical innovation increases. Physiology is the gateway discipline to a wide variety of career paths in the health sciences. Housed within the University of Minnesota Medical School, a small cohort of M.S. students will receive rigorous instruction and personalized guidance and support for pursuing admission to health professional programs (such as M.D. or D.D.S.), doctorate-level programs (Ph.D.), and positions in industry/academia.
Admissions Requirements
Admission to the IBP Master's program, plan C will depend on the following requirements:
- Completion of a bachelor’s degree with course work in the biological sciences.
- An undergraduate grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher.
- International applicants whose native language is not English and have not received a degree from an institution in an English speaking country are required to supply proof of English language proficiency. Here is the Graduate School site for approved methods.
How to Apply
All materials are submitted electronically through the UMN Graduate School application system.
You will need to provide:
- A personal statement: Applicant provides a person statement explaining what influences the decision to pursue a Master's degree. How does this program align with career goals?
- A curriculum vitae or resume.
- Two letters of recommendation
- Transcripts - unofficial transcripts can be uploaded; official transcripts will be request by the Graduate Admissions Office upon enrollment. (read more)
- Scores for English proficiency for international students (read more)
- GRE scores are NOT required.
- Fall start term only.
- Please contact Jane Barnard with any questions about the application process & requirements (mayhe001@umn.edu).
Financing
Graduate School Financing Resources
Fellowships for prospective students
Graduate Research Fellowship Program (applications due Oct)
Fellowship listing for current students
Graduate School- Fellowship Opportunities for Current Students
Additional Resources
MS Curriculum
Student must complete 30 credits of course work to earn a Plan C (non thesis) master’s degree. The program is designed such that a full-time student can complete the degree in one calendar year (Fall – Spring – Summer Semesters).
Required courses
Complete two of the following four courses
- PHSL 5702 – Cell Physiology
- PHSL 5061 – Principles of Physiology
- PHSL 5115 – Clinical Physiology I
- PHSL 5116 - Clinical Physiology II
Elective courses in Physiology
Take electives from the following list, or other courses in consultation with the program director, to complete the minimum (30) credit requirement.
- PHSL 4021 Advanced Physiology and Bioengineering: Bionic Human
- PHSL 4031 Physiology topics: Contemporary Discussions
- PHSL 5115 Clinical Physiology I
- PHSL 5116 Clinical Physiology II
- PHSL 5197 Stress Physiology
- PHSL 5211 Physiology of Inflammation and Disease
- PHSL 5221 Systems and computational Physiology
- PHSL 5444 Muscle
- PHSL 5510 Advanced Cardiac Anatomy and Physiology (meets first week in January)
- PHSL 5525 Anatomy and Physiology of Pelvis and Urinary System (Meets second week of January)
- PHSL 8253 Obesity from molecules to the bedside
- PHSL4242/8242 Professional Skills for Biomedical Scientists
Examples of elective courses from other departments
- Biol 4003 Genetics
- Biol 4004 Cell Biology
- Biol 5701 Science Communication: a Primer for Scientists 2 credits (online)
- Bioc 4331 Biochem I structure, catalysis metabolism
- Bioc 4332 Biochem II Signal transduction and gene expression
- Bioc 6021 Biochemistry
- Bioc 5216 Current topics in Signal Transduction
- GCD 5036 Molecular Cell Biology
- MicB 4131 Immunology (good pre-req for Phsl 5211)
- PUBH 6414 Biostatistical Literacy
- PUBH 6450 Biostatistics I
- PUBH 6451 Biostatistics II
Sample Plan
Important Dates
March 30: Early Decision Deadline
April 30: Final Decision Deadline
Fall term start only
Director of Graduate Studies
sepe@umn.edu