.png&w=1920&q=75)
M-SC in Medical Physiology at Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences
Chennai, Tamil Nadu
.png&w=1920&q=75)
About the Specialization
What is Medical Physiology at Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences Chennai?
This M.Sc. Medical Physiology program at Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences focuses on providing an in-depth understanding of human body functions from cellular to systemic levels. With a strong emphasis on clinical relevance, the curriculum is designed to meet the growing demand for skilled physiologists in India''''s healthcare and research sectors, distinguishing itself through comprehensive practical training and applied physiology.
Who Should Apply?
This program is ideal for science graduates (B.Sc. in various life sciences, B.Pharm, BPT, Allied Health Sciences, BDS, BVSc., MBBS) seeking entry into advanced biomedical research or healthcare support roles. It also suits working professionals who wish to upskill or career changers transitioning into clinical physiology, research, or academic positions within the burgeoning Indian medical education and research landscape.
Why Choose This Course?
Graduates of this program can expect diverse career paths in India, including medical colleges as teaching faculty, diagnostic labs as clinical physiologists, research institutions, and pharmaceutical companies. Entry-level salaries typically range from INR 3-5 LPA, growing significantly with experience. The program aligns with the need for professionals capable of supporting diagnostics, research, and academia in a rapidly expanding healthcare economy.
Student Success Practices
Foundation Stage
Master Core Physiological Concepts through Active Learning- (Semester 1-2)
Actively engage with the fundamental principles of general, systemic, and cellular physiology. Form study groups to discuss complex topics, utilize anatomical models and physiological charts for visual learning, and regularly solve case studies provided by faculty to connect theory with clinical application.
Tools & Resources
Guyton and Hall''''s Textbook of Medical Physiology, Ganong''''s Review of Medical Physiology, Institutional lab manuals, Online physiology animations/videos (e.g., Osmosis)
Career Connection
A strong foundation in core physiology is critical for all future roles, from research to diagnostics, ensuring accurate interpretation of patient data and effective contribution to medical teams.
Excel in Laboratory Skills and Data Interpretation- (Semester 1-2)
Dedicate extra time to understand and master the practical aspects of each system. Pay close attention during lab demonstrations, meticulously record observations, and learn to interpret raw data from experiments. Practice writing detailed lab reports, focusing on methodology, results, and conclusions.
Tools & Resources
Saveetha''''s physiology labs, Official lab protocols, Online resources for data analysis basics (e.g., Excel tutorials, basic statistical software)
Career Connection
Proficiency in practical skills and data interpretation directly translates to diagnostic lab roles, clinical physiology assistant positions, and research associate roles, enhancing employability.
Develop Critical Thinking through Clinical Correlates- (Semester 1-2)
Actively seek out and engage with the clinical correlations discussed in lectures and practicals. Discuss how physiological dysfunctions lead to disease symptoms. Participate in hospital visits or clinical case discussions (if organized by the department) to observe how physiological knowledge is applied in patient care.
Tools & Resources
Clinical Physiology textbooks, Medical journals (e.g., Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology), Discussions with faculty and senior residents
Career Connection
This practice prepares students for roles in clinical physiology, where understanding disease mechanisms from a physiological perspective is paramount for diagnosis and treatment support.
Intermediate Stage
Initiate Research Project Early and Systematically- (Semester 3)
Begin exploring potential research topics and faculty mentors early in Semester 3, aligning interests with available departmental expertise. Develop a clear research proposal, conduct a thorough literature review, and plan methodology. This proactive approach ensures ample time for data collection and analysis.
Tools & Resources
PubMed, Scopus, Institutional library resources, Research proposal guidelines, Mentorship from faculty
Career Connection
A well-executed research project enhances CV, demonstrates research aptitude, and is crucial for pursuing Ph.D. or research scientist roles in institutions like ICMR, NCCS, etc.
Gain Expertise in Specialized Physiological Techniques- (Semester 3)
Focus on mastering advanced techniques taught in specialized elective subjects (e.g., Clinical Neurophysiology, Cardiac Electrophysiology). Volunteer for extra lab hours or assist faculty in ongoing experiments to get hands-on experience with specialized equipment and data acquisition/analysis.
Tools & Resources
Advanced physiological equipment in department labs, Specialized software for data acquisition (e.g., LabChart), Relevant online courses or workshops
Career Connection
Specialized technical skills are highly valued in clinical diagnostic labs, research settings, and medical device companies, providing a competitive edge in niche areas.
Network and Attend Academic Conferences/Workshops- (Semester 3)
Actively seek opportunities to attend regional or national physiology conferences, workshops, or seminars. Engage with professionals, present preliminary research findings if possible, and network with peers and experts. This broadens perspective and opens doors for future collaborations or job opportunities.
Tools & Resources
Physiology society websites (e.g., Association of Physiologists of India), University notice boards for events, Professional networking platforms (e.g., LinkedIn)
Career Connection
Networking is vital for career growth in academia and research, leading to potential mentorships, internships, and job referrals in India''''s scientific community.
Advanced Stage
Refine Thesis Writing and Presentation Skills- (Semester 4)
Dedicate significant effort to structuring, writing, and refining the project thesis. Seek regular feedback from your guide, pay attention to scientific writing conventions, and practice presenting your research findings clearly and concisely, preparing thoroughly for the viva voce examination.
Tools & Resources
Thesis writing guides, Academic writing workshops, Presentation software, Feedback from faculty and peers
Career Connection
Excellent thesis writing and presentation skills are essential for academic positions, scientific writing roles, and effective communication in any professional setting, impacting both employment and higher studies.
Proactive Career Planning and Interview Preparation- (Semester 4)
Begin identifying target career paths (e.g., teaching, research, clinical diagnostics) and prepare tailored resumes/CVs. Practice common interview questions, especially those related to physiological concepts, research methodology, and practical skills. Seek guidance from the placement cell or faculty mentors.
Tools & Resources
University career services, Online job portals (Naukri, LinkedIn), Mock interview sessions, Previous year''''s interview experiences
Career Connection
Early and focused career planning increases the likelihood of securing desirable placements immediately after graduation, aligning with individual career aspirations in India.
Explore Higher Education or Certification Opportunities- (Semester 4)
For those aspiring for further academic growth, research Ph.D. programs in India and abroad, and prepare for entrance exams if required. Alternatively, investigate relevant professional certifications that can enhance employability in specific clinical or industrial physiology domains.
Tools & Resources
UGC, CSIR-NET, ICMR-JRF exam resources, University admission portals, Professional body websites for certifications
Career Connection
Advanced degrees or certifications can open doors to senior research positions, academic leadership roles, or specialized clinical practice, accelerating long-term career progression in India.
Program Structure and Curriculum
Eligibility:
- B.Sc. in Physics, Chemistry, Botany, Zoology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biotechnology, B.Pharm, BPT, B.Sc. Allied Health Sciences, BDS, BVSc., or MBBS with minimum 50% aggregate marks.
Duration: 2 years / 4 semesters
Credits: 75 Credits
Assessment: Internal: 40%, External: 60%
Semester-wise Curriculum Table
Semester 1
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGYR21101 | General Physiology, Cell & Membrane Physiology, Blood & Nerve Muscle Physiology | Core | 5 | General physiology principles, Cellular organization and transport, Membrane potentials and action potentials, Nerve impulse transmission, Muscle contraction mechanisms, Blood composition and functions, Immunity and blood grouping |
| PGYR21102 | Gastrointestinal System & Renal Physiology | Core | 5 | Digestion, absorption, and motility of GI tract, Accessory gland secretions (liver, pancreas), Kidney structure and function, Glomerular filtration, tubular processes, Fluid and electrolyte balance, Acid-base balance |
| PGYR21103 | Endocrine & Reproductive Physiology | Core | 5 | Hormone classification and action, Hypothalamic-pituitary axis, Thyroid, adrenal, pancreatic endocrinology, Calcium and phosphate metabolism, Male and female reproductive systems, Hormonal control of reproduction |
| PGYR21104 | General Physiology, Cell & Membrane Physiology, Blood & Nerve Muscle Physiology – Practical | Lab | 4 | Blood cell counting and estimation, Blood grouping and coagulation tests, Osmotic fragility test, Physiology of skeletal muscle, Microscopic examination of blood cells |
| PGYR21105 | Gastrointestinal System & Renal Physiology – Practical | Lab | 4 | Urine analysis (physical, chemical, microscopic), Renal function tests (clearances), Interpretation of liver function tests, Clinical case discussions related to GI/Renal disorders |
| PGYR21106 | Endocrine & Reproductive Physiology – Practical | Lab | 4 | Principles of hormonal assays, Interpretation of thyroid function tests, Assessment of reproductive cycle, Clinical case discussions related to endocrine disorders |
Semester 2
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGYR21201 | Cardiovascular System & Respiratory Physiology | Core | 5 | Cardiac cycle and cardiac output, Electrocardiography (ECG), Blood pressure regulation, Regional circulations, Lung volumes and capacities, Gas exchange and transport, Regulation of respiration, hypoxia |
| PGYR21202 | Central Nervous System (Part I) | Core | 5 | Synaptic transmission and neurotransmitters, Sensory receptors and pathways, Motor control systems, Cerebellum and basal ganglia, Spinal cord reflexes, Autonomic nervous system |
| PGYR21203 | Central Nervous System (Part II) & Special Senses | Core | 5 | Higher cortical functions (learning, memory), Sleep and EEG, Limbic system and hypothalamus, Physiology of vision, Physiology of hearing and balance, Taste, smell, and pain pathways |
| PGYR21204 | Cardiovascular System & Respiratory Physiology – Practical | Lab | 4 | Blood pressure measurement and analysis, ECG recording and interpretation, Spirometry and lung function tests, Pulse wave analysis, Clinical case discussions related to CVS/Respiratory |
| PGYR21205 | Central Nervous System – Practical | Lab | 4 | Neurological examination (sensory, motor), Assessment of reflexes and cranial nerves, EEG recording and interpretation principles, Clinical case discussions related to CNS disorders |
| PGYR21206 | Special Senses – Practical | Lab | 4 | Visual acuity and color vision testing, Audiometry and hearing assessment, Assessment of taste and smell, Tests for balance and vestibular function |
Semester 3
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGYR21301 | Exercise, Environmental, Yoga & Applied Physiology | Core | 5 | Physiology of exercise and training, Energy metabolism during physical activity, Responses to high altitude, deep sea, space, Thermoregulation and body temperature, Physiological effects of Yoga, Applied clinical physiology concepts |
| PGYR21302 | Research Methodology & Biostatistics | Core | 5 | Principles of research design, Sampling methods and data collection, Hypothesis testing and p-value, Descriptive and inferential statistics, Statistical tests (t-test, ANOVA, correlation), Ethical considerations in research |
| PGYRE21301 | Clinical Neurophysiology | Elective | 5 | Evoked potentials (VEP, BAEP, SSEP), Electromyography (EMG), Nerve Conduction Studies (NCS), Sleep studies and polysomnography, Brain mapping techniques, Intraoperative neurophysiological monitoring |
| PGYRE21302 | Cardiac Electrophysiology | Elective | 5 | Ion channels in cardiac muscle, Action potentials of cardiac cells, Advanced ECG interpretation, Mechanisms of cardiac arrhythmias, Principles of pacemakers and defibrillators, Catheter ablation techniques |
| PGYRE21303 | Renal & Respiratory Function Testing | Elective | 5 | Advanced GFR measurement techniques, Tubular function tests, Dynamic spirometry and flow-volume loops, Blood gas analysis and interpretation, Bronchial challenge tests, Body plethysmography |
| PGYR21304 | Exercise, Environmental, Yoga & Applied Physiology – Practical | Lab | 4 | Ergometry and exercise testing protocols, VO2 max estimation, ECG changes during exercise, Assessment of respiratory responses to exercise, Tests for thermal stress response |
| PGYR21305 | Research Methodology & Biostatistics – Practical | Lab | 4 | Data entry and management using software, Application of statistical tests (SPSS/R), Interpretation of statistical results, Scientific report writing and presentation, Referencing and citation management |
Semester 4
| Subject Code | Subject Name | Subject Type | Credits | Key Topics |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| PGYR21401 | Project Work | Project | 10 | Literature review and research question formulation, Methodology design and ethical clearance, Data collection and experimentation, Statistical analysis and interpretation, Thesis writing and defense (Viva Voce), Presentation of research findings |
