Human Physiology, Physical Activity & Health BSc

Course overview

Human physiology is the study of human function and the mechanisms that underlie that function. Human physiologists understand how the body works and what goes wrong in disease. We know that physical activity and exercise is vital for leading a healthier and longer life as it can help prevent and treat a wide range of common health problems such as cardiovascular disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, cancer, arthritis, depression and dementia. Understanding how our body reacts to physical activity is a crucial area of contemporary science.

On this course you will be part of an investigative-based learning experience, informed by cutting edge research and delivered by world leading academics. You’ll study the effects of physical activity on the body, and how the subsequent physiological responses can help in the prevention and treatment of disease.

Your first year will equip you with a broad understanding of the principal body systems, and important hands-on practical experience. As you progress you will develop specialist knowledge of how physical activity affects the body at different levels. Areas include gross anatomy and movement, how the different systems of the body (including the cardiovascular, respiratory, nervous and endocrine systems) allow us to move and function, and how cellular and molecular mechanisms (such as metabolism and electrophysiology) underpin whole-body function. You will explore how physical activity can be applied across a range of settings to improve health and disease outcomes and inform rehabilitation strategies.

Our focus will be on making you workplace ready. To showcase your knowledge and skills to potential employers, you’ll undertake an independent capstone or culminating research project, where you will bring together the knowledge, skills and attributes developed throughout your degree and apply with the ultimate aim of creating a solution to a problem.

This 3 year BSc can also be converted into an integrated Masters (MBiol) with an optional additional year of specialist training. You would study advanced research topics and undertake your own extended research project within one of the major research laboratories in the School of Biomedical Sciences or an appropriate period of work based practice.

Course Highlights

• Designed to give a broad scientific foundation and key graduate skills for those interested in human physiology, physical activity and health.

• Explore world-leading research in exercise and biomedical science through expert researchers.

• Delivered using inspirational, engaging and inclusive approaches, developing the key skills and attributes of a global graduate.

• Utilise our state-of-the-art physiology, biomechanics and motor control laboratories, including the use of our environmental chamber and motion capture system.

• Design and conduct experiments to find answers to key health related questions.

• An independent research project under the supervision of a field-leading academic, further developing the key skills and attributes that will set you apart in the graduate job market.

Flexible degrees

Human Physiology, Physical Activity & Health is a specialist degree within the School of Biomedical Sciences which offers you some flexibility throughout your time studying at Leeds.

Our BSc Human Physiology, Physical Activity & Health programme shares a similar first year with some of our other School of Biomedical Sciences degree courses, which means that at the end of year 1, dependant on prior academic background and performance, there is the opportunity to transfer according to your growing interests, subject to approval.

Wellbeing afternoons

Here at the University of Leeds, we are acutely aware that teaching is only part of a healthy, engaging university lifestyle. Activities which contribute to your wellbeing are vital, and so we have created Wednesday Wellbeing Afternoons.

These afternoons are a period of time with as much teaching as possible removed to give you the chance to pursue your passions. This may be a competitive sport for the university, a social sporting activity, or indeed any activity which contributes to positive mental health. We want your degree to be as flexible as possible so that you can make the most of your time here with us.

Course details

Year 1

This course equips you with a broad knowledge of the exercise science and biomedical sciences. Your first year features an introduction to a range of topics, including essential anatomy and physiology of human systems, biochemistry of the cell, exercise science concepts and biomedical science concepts.

You will be taught essential academic and professional skills to help you progress successfully through the course and into further study or employment. You’ll also develop the fundamental practical laboratory techniques that will underpin the rest of your studies.

There is the opportunity in year 1 to take optional modules within other areas of the biomedical sciences, biosciences or some health and nutrition related modules.

At the end of year 1, our flexible degree structure may offer you the opportunity to transfer onto other suitable, related degree courses.

Topics covered

Human systems and health (20 credits) - An introduction to the anatomy and physiology of the main human body systems and how we maintain health. This module will discuss topics such as the cardiovascular, respiratory and neuromuscular systems. The module will include students working in teams to apply their knowledge to create solutions to problem-based case studies.

The basis of life (20 credits) - An understanding of the molecular basis of human life. This module will discuss molecular processes and cell structures, and their critical role in determining how humans function and survive. It will explore the biochemical basis of key physiological functions, for example, in muscles and how these change during physical activity.

Introductory concepts in human physiology, physical activity & health (20 credits) - To build a core knowledge of the exercise sciences disciplines, alongside the relevant biomedical sciences. This will include an understanding of key concepts in topics such as exercise physiology, biomechanics, psychology & neuroscience.

Practical research skills in human physiology, physical activity & health (20 credits) - Students will develop fundamental practical laboratory and associated skills. This module will cover the introductory laboratory and scientific skills that are essential for experimental design, execution and reporting of practical work in the biomedical sciences. This module will equip students with a range of scientific research skills that will underpin their work in subsequent years.

Academic and professional skills addressing global challenges (20 credits) - Whilst focussing on addressing key challenges within Biomedical Sciences, students will develop essential academic and professional skills. Students will work as a team to research and create solutions to a national or global challenge or problem. They will develop and apply important skills including critical thinking, creative problem-solving, team-working and communication skills.

Year 2

Building upon year 1, in the advanced concept units you can choose specialist topics from the sub-disciplines of exercise science (e.g. muscular performance, biomechanics of exercise, social psychology of exercise, skills acquisition and motor learning) and biomedical sciences (e.g. cardiorespiratory physiology, neurobiology and gastrointestinal physiology).

You will further develop your research and applied skills in our state-of-the-art exercise science and biomedical sciences laboratories.

Flexibility is offered for taking modules outside of the School, such as diagnostic imaging, nutrition and disease or other health related modules. In year 2 the modules are taught in a way that balances facilitated and independent learning.

You will further develop your personal and professional skills including critical thinking, creative problem solving, team-working and critical reasoning skills. Apply your knowledge and skills to evaluate scientific evidence and create solutions to major biomedical and health problems.

At the end of year 2 you will have the opportunity to complete an industrial work placement, study abroad, or combined study and work abroad. This will add an additional year of study to your degree.

Topics covered

Advanced human physiology, physical activity & health concept units I (20 credits) - Students can build subject specialist knowledge by choosing concept units they are most interested in studying further. This module builds on Year 1 and prepares students for Specialist Topic units in Year 3. Units may include, for example, the cardiorespiratory systems, and the impact of physical activity on these, or the social psychology of physical activity.

Advanced human physiology, physical activity & health concept units II (20 credits) - Students can build subject specialist knowledge by choosing concept units they are most interested in studying further. This module builds on Year 1 and prepares students for Specialist Topic units in Year 3. Units may include, for example, the biomechanics of physical activity, motor control or skills acquisition.

Practical Research Skills in human physiology, physical activity & health sciences (20 credits) - The opportunity to develop more complex practical skills to address research questions. Students will participate in practical activities and mini projects, using key experimental approaches and methods used in the biomedical sciences. They will develop key research skills including experimental design, and appropriate statistical and mathematical methods or approaches for analysing biomedical data and information.

Academic and professional skills addressing global challenges (20 credits) - Whilst focussing on addressing key complex global challenges related to UN sustainability goals (United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) | Sustainability (leeds.ac.uk), students will build their skills in knowledge application, a variety of methods of analysis, and the presentation of scientific data or information to different audiences. Students will work as a team to research and create biomedical solutions to a global grand challenge or UN SDG. In this and other activities, students will develop and practice key academic and professional skills including the critical analysis of research papers and other sources of information, verbal, written and graphical communication, team-working, planning and organisation, and negotiation.

Year 3

The focal point for year 3 is an independent capstone research project that you’ll carry out under the supervision of a field-leading academic. Here you will be able to select from a wide range of project types, enabling you to focus on a specific subject and develop the skills which will set you apart in the graduate job market.

Examples of previous projects are:

• Guidelines for physical activity prescription in cancer patients.

• The impact of pregnancy and the postpartum period on family lifestyle behaviours and health.

• Limitations to oxygen delivery during exercise in heart failure.

Alongside this, tailor your degree to include topics which interested you in earlier years. Specialised topic modules allow you to choose from a menu of different research topics so you can focus more on your areas of interest. Areas such as motor control and neuro-rehabilitation, exercise and psychological health and exercise medicine, health and nutrition, stem cells, neurodegeneration, and cellular cardiology.

Topics covered

Specialised topics in human physiology, physical activity & health I (20 credits) - Students have the opportunity to build their knowledge of research in specific topic areas led by active researchers in the field of study. It will introduce students to a range of research topics in the physiological sciences, physical activity and health, and the broader biomedical sciences, and develop their ability to collate, critically analyse, and describe scientific information. Topics covered will reflect current research interests of the School, and may include, for example, motor control and rehabilitation.

Specialised topics in human physiology, physical activity & health II (20 credits) - Students have the opportunity to build their knowledge of research in specific topic areas led by active researchers in the field of study. It will introduce students to a range of research topics in the physiological sciences, physical activity and health, and the broader biomedical sciences, and develop their ability to collate, critically analyse, and describe scientific information. Topics covered will reflect current research interests of the School, and may include, for example, exercise and psychological health, health and nutrition, or cellular cardiology.

Advanced skills (20 credits) - Students attend a series of compulsory and optional units designed to provide scaffolding and support for their capstone research experience. They will develop and utilise the research, employability and 4th Industrial Revolution skills required both for their capstone project and for the workplace. Students select the units which develop the key skills and attributes required for their individual capstone project and/or future employment. The assignments for this module provide further scaffolding and support for the creation of their capstone project.

Capstone research project (40 credits) - Students will design and undertake, either individually or as part of a team, an extended enquiry-based project in an area or topic relevant to human physiology, physical activity or health. This project could be one of many formats including scientific research, public engagement, grand challenges report, or the development of educational resources. Students will apply knowledge and skills gained in earlier years of their programme, acquire new knowledge and understanding, and develop new research and employability skills. On completion, they will communicate the outcomes or outputs of their project in different ways to a variety of audiences. Students may choose the capstone project or format of interest to them, being mentored by one of the leading academics in that field of study.

Discovery modules

Throughout your degree you will benefit from a range of opportunities to expand your intellectual horizons outside or within your subject area.

This course gives you the opportunity to choose from a range of discovery modules. They’re a great way to tailor your study around your interests or career aspirations and help you stand out from the crowd when you graduate. Find out more about discovery modules on our Broadening webpages.

Learning and teaching

You will experience a wide range of blended educational approaches and methods designed to enhance learning for all students. You will be involved in active learning approaches including creative problem solving, team-working and mini-projects. You will be provided with short pre-recorded screencasts to introduce key topics, enabling you to listen again and have flexible access to the resources, supported within the virtual learning environment. This will be combined with in person hands on practical classes, facilitated active learning sessions and small group workshops to develop and apply your knowledge and skills.

There will be plenty of opportunities to work with fellow students in team-work problem solving exercises with input and feedback from academic staff. Your first and second year will focus on building your skills, understanding and knowledge. This will be initially fully facilitated, moving to a more independent approach across the first two years, in preparation for your final year where both the research project and topics, will see you take on independent research and learning, with the guidance and mentoring of leading experts.

A typical week in your first year may include nine to twelve hours of a combination of in person and online study, three to six hours of practical sessions in the laboratory, regular workshop or personal tutorial sessions, plus private study.

Across all years, you will be required to undertake private study. You will also have regular meetings with a personal tutor who is there to advise and support you academically. As independent study and research are also crucial to the course, we have excellent library and computing facilities to support your learning, and the University Library offers comprehensive training.

On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.

Assessment

Assessment on the course in a varied mix of course work submitted during the teaching semester and online time limited assessment, both during the semester and in the exam periods (Jan and May each year). The aim is for assessment is to be part of the learning journey of each module and the course as a whole. A mixture of multiple choice questions, short answer questions and longer essay questions are used in an online time limited assessment.

Many modules adopt authentic assessment approaches where appropriate. These assessments aim to develop the personal and professional skills required in the workplace. For example, writing of laboratory or other reports, grant applications, presenting orally or delivering poster presentations as well as preparing reflective accounts and portfolios.

Communicating science to a wider audience is also a key skill in which authentic assessment is used. In some circumstances there may be a choice of assessment piece to make it more relevant, meaningful and engaging for all students. Assessments in the school are prepared in a fair and inclusive manner adhering to relevant and up to date guidance.

Entry requirements

A-level: AAB

Including biology or physical education, plus another science or science-related subject. Critical thinking and general studies excluded.

We accept the following:

• Science: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics, PE.

• Science-related: computing, environmental science, food science, geography, geology, psychology, statistics.

Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.

When an applicant is taking the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ), the Cambridge International Project Qualification (Cambridge IPQ) or Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate, this can be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you’re taking A-levels, this would be a 1 grade drop from the standard offer. For example A in one of the above qualifications with ABB at A-level (BSc applicants).

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English. The Faculty of Biological Sciences will accept Level 2 Functional Skills English in lieu of GCSE English.

Alternative qualification

Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the School’s Undergraduate Admissions Team.

Alternative entry

We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.

Access to Leeds is an alternative admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.

Find out more about Access to Leeds and alternative admissions.

Typical Access to Leeds offer

Specific A Level subjects required – see entry requirement section above.

GCSE: Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.

Access to Leeds: Pass

International Foundation Year

International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.

English language requirements

IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component. . For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.

Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.

Fees

UK: To be confirmed

International: To be confirmed

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2022/23
For UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2022/23 the fee will be £9,250. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the government and may vary if policy changes.

Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students for 2023/24 have been agreed by the UK Government and will remain at the current fee level of £9,250. The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation and as permitted by law. Fees for UK undergraduate students are decided by the government and may vary if policy changes.

Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2023/24
Tuition fees for international students for 2023/24 should be available on individual course pages from September 2022.

Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.

Read more about paying fees and charges.

There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more about additional costs.

Scholarships and financial support

If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.

Applying

Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.

International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.

Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.

Application decisions

We typically receive a high number of applications to our courses in the School of Biomedical Sciences. The number of applicants exceeds the number of places available and so, to ensure that we treat all applications fairly and equitably, we review applications until after the UCAS deadline before making a final decision.

This is a normal part of our process for these courses and may mean applicants have to wait longer than usual to hear from us. It takes time to thoroughly assess all applications, but we aim to make all decisions by the end of March.

Offer decisions are made based on an overall review of applications including predicted grades, breadth of knowledge demonstrated through qualifications, personal statement, extra-curricular and work experience, and contextual information.

Admissions policy

University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2023

This course is taught by

Faculty of Biological Sciences

Contact us

Faculty of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Admissions Office

Email: fbsadmissions@leeds.ac.uk
Telephone:

Career opportunities

As well as providing you with subject-specific knowledge, we aim to equip you with the best possible skills and attributes required to enter the diverse careers available to biomedical science graduates and those that specialise in human physiology physical activity and health. All of our degrees have a strong emphasis on practical based teaching, active learning, online learning, team working, creative problem solving, and independent learning.

Throughout the degree, you’ll gain a wide range of skills and attributes which are highly valued by employers. Supported by the faculty student opportunity team, Leeds for Life scheme and your academic and personal tutor, you’ll be ideally placed to focus on your personal and professional development and make the most of your time at university.

Typical graduate careers include:

• Exercise physiologist/rehabilitation

• Personal trainer

• Clinical scientist

• Biomedical scientist

• Academic researcher

• Physician associate

• Medical communications

• Clinical rehabilitation

• Clinical research associate

• Teaching

• Medical sales representative

Examples of recent graduate destinations include:

• Clinical exercise specialist

• Cardiographer

• Clinical research coordinator

• Clinical trials associate

• Fitness coach

• Graduate management trainee

• Civil service fast stream

• MSc Data science and analytics

• MSc Physiotherapy

• Trainee clinical scientist (NHS STP)

• Graduate medicine

• PGCE (teaching)

• Research analyst

• Commercial development coordinator

• Therapy assistant (NHS)

• Occupational therapist

• Physiotherapist

Careers support

We have a dedicated student opportunity team in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who work closely with the University’s Careers Centre.

We offer a host of additional opportunities beyond core course content, including volunteering and placements. These include our annual student-alumni networking event, where graduates are invited back to talk about their work and network with our students, and our Pharma and Health Careers Fair, which gives you the chance to meet bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, Labcorp, GSK, Nuffield NHS, National School of Healthcare Science, speak to alumni, attend workshops and all the information you may need to prepare applications to employers in this field. The Faculty opportunity team organises regular careers talks from employers in the pharmaceutical and healthcare sectors.

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.

Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.

The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more at the Careers website.

Study abroad and work placements

Study abroad

On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America. 

Find out more at the Study Abroad website.

If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of your course studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.

Work placements

Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.

Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.

Employability is an essential focus that is nurtured in all students via the excellent work placement programme. Taken as a 12 month extension to your studies which take place after second year, an industrial placement allows the opportunity for students to undertake a diverse range of professional employment, from such areas as cutting edge scientific research and development, clinical research management right the way through to areas such as scientific business consultant roles, all working alongside industry experts, developing highly transferable skillsets and experience. We have a strong track record of working with industrial employers that are seeking to recruit graduates demonstrating a practical understanding of the professional workplace, and this makes Biomedical Sciences graduates with an industrial placement year really stand out. Many students gaining employment post-graduation based on experience from their placement work.

It is worth noting that industrial placements may be in the UK or overseas. Our students are consistently successful in securing highly competitive industrial work placements in major multinational companies and research institutes around the world from the U.S.A. to Australia. In any geographical location, we work together with your industrial supervisors to make sure you get the most out of the year.

We have a dedicated industrial placements team that help support you by highlighting a range of opportunities, advice and support on applications and CV writing as well as a range of key advice and experience in the entire recruitment process.

Industrial placements elevate you above the standard graduate and can also help you decide on your career. Working professionally in an area you are interested in for a year provides a unique insight to that career and can help sculpt and direct future career plans which can be further developed alongside the Faculty employability team and the university careers service on your return to university.

Find out more about work experience and the support for careers on the Careers website.

Combined study and working abroad

Our new module allows you to combine both a study abroad and industrial work placement into one additional year of study. Over the year you will study for a semester at one of our partner universities and complete an industrial work placement for 6 months abroad or in the UK.

Find out more about Combined study and work abroad.

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