Physiology is the field of biology that deals with function in living organisms. The academic foundation of the department is the knowledge of how humans and animals function at the level of genes, cells, organs and systems. A graduate degree in the Department of Integrative Physiology at the University of Colorado Boulder provides opportunities for careers in academia, industry and the health professions.

Bachelor's–Accelerated Master's Degree Program

Students may earn this degree as part of the Bachelor's–Accelerated Master's (BAM) degree program, which allows currently enrolled CU Boulder undergraduate students the opportunity to earn a bachelor's and master's degree in a shorter period of time.

For more information, see the Accelerated Master's tab for the associated bachelor's degree(s): Integrative Physiology - Bachelor of Arts (BA)

Requirements

Admission Requirements

Entering graduate students must have an undergraduate preparation equivalent to the basic core curriculum requirements in integrative physiology or departmental approval of their academic preparation for graduate study. 

All graduate applicants must have an introductory course in statistics or research design. In addition, students should have the knowledge base that would be obtained by completing human physiology or comparative animal physiology lecture and lab courses.

Deficiencies

Deficiencies in any area of the undergraduate major may be met by completing approved coursework in the subject at CU Boulder or at other institutions. All entering graduate students with deficiencies must satisfy all deficiencies within the first year of graduate study.

Course Requirements

Master's candidates entering the graduate program must complete 30 credits to graduate. They may select one of three options:

  • Coursework only plan: 30 required credits to graduate
  • Research project plan: 3 research project hours as part of the 30 required credits to graduate
  • Thesis plan: 4 to 6 thesis hours as part of the 30 required credits to graduate

It is possible, however, to change from one option to another during the program of study.

Students must have a minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.0 in all graduate work taken, and must perform satisfactorily on the comprehensive exam.

Required Courses and Credits

Required Courses
IPHY 5100Colloquium in Integrative Physiology2
IPHY 5800Advanced Statistics and Research Methods in Integrative Physiology4
Degree Plan Option
Select the coursework-only (0 credits), research project (3 credits) or thesis (4-6 credits) option.0-6
Research Project
Master's Thesis
Electives
Elective coursework to fulfill the 30-credit minimum.18-24
Total Credit Hours30