Physiological Sciences Major

About our program

Focus on human and animal structure and function while you explore everything from how we move to how we think. Here, you’ll take courses like neurobiology and human physiology that most universities reserve for grad students. And since physiology is the foundation of the medical sciences, this major is excellent preparation for medical or other health-related professional schools.

At Marquette, we look at everything through the lens of serving others, which means you'll graduate with an understanding of how your expertise can be used to advance the greater good. Regardless of whether your career is set in a hospital, research lab or even further afield, you’ll be prepared to truly make a positive difference for others.

Marquette Hall, view from Wisconsin Avenue.

Marquette Hall, College of Arts and Sciences

Benefits you’ll get from Marquette’s College of Arts and Sciences

The ability to make significant positive change in the world requires knowing more than one area well. And since our College of Arts and Sciences is the most academically diverse college on campus, we're the perfect place to prepare for your role as a changemaker. So broaden your expertise by adding at least one additional major or minor to your degree — 73% of our students do. 

What can you do with a major in physiological sciences from Marquette?

More than half of our graduates continue into graduate or health professional schools. For those who go into the workforce, here’s where some of our recent graduates landed.

  • Advocate Aurora Health
  • Northwestern Medicine
  • Researchers for Change
  • ScribeAmerica
  • Team Rehabilitation Physical Therapy
  • University of Wisconsin Health System

collage of a building and faculty member talking to students

Hands-on learning for career success

While you’re here at Marquette, preparing you for what’s next will be one of our top priorities. So, expect lots of learning by doing, connecting with others who share your passions, and reflecting on how you can Be The Difference.

 

Professional experience

As a physiological sciences major, you'll have lots of career options. Explore the direction you'll take — and get valuable professional experience — with an internship. Internships can include working in a variety of professional settings, such as biotech/pharma companies, environmental and conservation nonprofit organizations, educational, government and nonprofit scientific policy and advocacy organizations. Our internship program is here to help you find the best option for you.  

Here are a few intern positions our students recently held: 

  • Immunology research intern and lab intern at the Blood Research Institute 
  • Project manager – patent marketing with The Commons 
  • Research intern at the Milwaukee Public Museum 
  • Junior adviser at Global Health Coalition 
  • Animal care and training intern at Oceans of Fun 
  • Toxicology intern at Milwaukee Crime Laboratory 
  • Research intern at Blood Center of Wisconsin 
  • Genetic counselor intern at Medical College of Wisconsin PURE 

Explore internships.

Undergraduate research

Here, you'll have the opportunity to work in a research lab — on your own projects — under the guidance of your faculty mentor. And you can present your findings at regional or national conferences. During the summer, participate in our 10-week program where you’ll work in a real biology lab and get paid for it. 

Here are some of the areas our undergraduates are researching: 

  • Microbiology 
  • Developmental biology 
  • Cell biology 
  • Molecular biology 
  • Neurobiology  
  • Vertebrate physiology 

Learn more about undergraduate research opportunities.

Leadership learning

Become a people-centered leader guided by our Jesuit tradition. Join our E-Lead program sophomore year and you’ll complete a combination of leadership courses and experiences that prepare you to be the driver of innovation for the common good. You’ll develop the skill set to generate innovative solutions and the mindset to reflect on the impact your work has on the world. Bonus: You’ll graduate with a concentration in leadership, too. 

Explore our E-Lead program. 

Study abroad

Expand your physiological sciences education with a semester abroad. Study program course work at prestigious universities around the world. Other international opportunities are available for physiological sciences students through core courses, summer study, language study, faculty-led programs or research. 

Check out our study abroad programs.

 

What to expect from a Marquette degree

A Marquette education equips students to thrive professionally and personally through overall student support, career preparation and an extended family that can't wait to meet you. But don't just take our word for it. 

#6

#6 Best College in Job Placement /#1 in Wisconsin

Zippia.com

#55

#55 in Student Outcomes

Wall Street Journal

#12

#12 Best Colleges for Internships

The Princeton Review (private universities)

Aerial of campus
 

Take the next step.