MSMP Curriculum

The MSMP curriculum is designed to provide students with a strong foundation in medical and translational physiology while preparing them for the rigor of professional school programs. Taught by expert faculty from the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine and affiliated institutions, the program combines a challenging academic curriculum with a collaborative learning environment that supports student success. 

Students develop an integrated understanding of human physiology at the molecular, cellular and organ-system levels through core coursework, electives and enrichment opportunities. Online students complete the same rigorous coursework as resident students.

The non-thesis option provides excellent preparation for subsequent studies in medicine, dentistry, anesthesia, physician assistant practice, nursing or teaching, while the thesis option is available for students interested in research or pursuing a PhD. Elective courses, teaching assistant opportunities and independent projects allow students to tailor their studies to individual interests.

Degree Requirements

To earn the MS in Medical Physiology degree, students must complete:

• 32 total credit hours
• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
• The MSMP core curriculum (20 credit hours)
• At least 6 elective credit hours selected from:
  • PHOL 479 Clinical Reasoning: Applied Medical Physiology
  • PHOL 492 Clinical Reasoning II
  • PHOL 493 Clinical Reasoning III
  • PHOL 402A Physiological Basis for Disease
  • PHOL 402B Physiological Basis for Disease
• An additional 6 elective credit hours
• A comprehensive exam

The School of Graduate Studies requires all degree requirements to be completed within five consecutive calendar years after matriculation as a graduate student. Most students complete the program in two years (four semesters).

Core Courses

Fall Semester Core Courses (10 Credit Hours)

• PHOL 481A & PHOL 481B Medical Physiology
• PHOL 483 Translational Physiology I
• PHOL 498C Physiology and Biophysics Department Seminar for Medical Physiology Students

Spring Semester Core Courses (10 Credit Hours)

• PHOL 481C & PHOL 481D Medical Physiology
• PHOL 484 Translational Physiology II
• PHOL 498D Physiology MSMP Seminar B

Required Elective Options (Minimum 6 Credit Hours)

At least 6 elective credit hours must be selected from the following courses.

• PHOL 479 Clinical Reasoning: Applied Medical Physiology
• PHOL 492 Clinical Reasoning II
• PHOL 493 Clinical Reasoning III
• PHOL 402A Physiological Basis for Disease
• PHOL 402B Physiological Basis for Disease
• PHOL 486 Physiology of Movement: An Introduction to Exercise Physiology
• PHOL 487 Exercise Physiology for Health and Disease

Additional Elective Options

• PHOL 410 Basic Oxygen and Physiological Function
• PHOL 485 Comparative and Evolutionary Physiology

Refer to the Graduate Bulletin for all course descriptions.

Areas of Concentration

Students may apply for an area of concentration (AOC) toward the end of the core curriculum. In addition to elective coursework, students participate in clinical activities at local hospitals related to their area of concentration. Students who complete an AOC receive a certificate at graduation, and this accomplishment is highlighted in their committee letter.

Current Areas of Concentration

• Clinical Neuroscience | Director: Kui Xu, PhD
• Physiological Research | Director: Andrea Romani, MD

Recommended Plan of Study

The recommended plan of study below reflects a typical schedule for students beginning the program in the fall semester. Students may also begin the program in the spring or summer terms by completing elective coursework until the core curriculum begins in the fall. Students interested in accelerating their studies should consult with their faculty advisor.

First Year

Second Year