Programme syllabus for Master's Programme in Translational Physiology and Pharmacology

Masterprogrammet i translationell fysiologi och farmakologi

Outcomes

Outcomes According to the Higher Education Act

Outcomes of second cycle education according to the Higher Education Act

Second-cycle courses and study programmes shall be based fundamentally on the knowledge acquired by students during first-cycle courses and study programmes, or its equivalent.

Second-cycle courses and study programmes shall involve the acquisition of specialist knowledge, competence and skills in relation to first-cycle courses and study programmes, and in addition to the requirements for first-cycle courses and study programmes shall:

• further develop the ability of students to integrate and make autonomous use of their knowledge,
• develop the students' ability to deal with complex phenomena, issues and situations, and
• develop the students' potential for professional activities that demand considerable autonomy, or for research and development work.

Degree Outcomes According to the Higher Education Ordinance

Degree Outcomes According to the Higher Education Ordinance

Knowledge and understanding

For a Degree of Master of Science (120 credits) the student shall

• demonstrate knowledge and understanding in the main field of study, including both broad knowledge of the field and a considerable degree of specialised knowledge in certain areas of the field as well as insight into current research and development work, and
• demonstrate specialised methodological knowledge in the main field of study.

Competence and skills

For a Degree of Master of Science (120 credits) the student shall

• demonstrate the ability to critically and systematically integrate knowledge and analyse, assess and deal with complex phenomena, issues and situations even with limited information
• demonstrate the ability to identify and formulate issues critically, autonomously and creatively as well as to plan and, using appropriate methods, undertake advanced tasks within predetermined time frames and so contribute to the formation of knowledge as well as the ability to evaluate this work
• demonstrate the ability in speech and writing both nationally and internationally to report clearly and discuss his or her conclusions and the knowledge and arguments on which they are based in dialogue with different audiences, and
• demonstrate the skills required for participation in research and development work or autonomous employment in some other qualified capacity.

Judgment and approach

For a Degree of Master of Science (120 credits) the student shall

• demonstrate the ability to make assessments in the main field of study informed by relevant disciplinary, social and ethical issues and also to demonstrate awareness of ethical aspects of research and development work
• demonstrate insight into the possibilities and limitations of research, its role in society and the responsibility of the individual for how it is used, and
• demonstrate the ability to identify the personal need for further knowledge and take responsibility for his or her ongoing learning.

Content and structure

The overarching aim of the Master's Programme in Translational Physiology and Pharmacology is to provide students with in-depth knowledge and understanding of physiological mechanisms and pharmacological treatment principles at the molecular, cellular, and systemic levels. Through a translational integration of basic science, mechanism-based therapies, and drug development, students acquire knowledge, skills, and attitudes crucial to understanding mechanisms that promote health or lead to disease. Such expertise is highly sought after in academia, healthcare, and industry for the development and implementation of methods for prevention, diagnosis, prediction, and novel treatments.

Semester 1 provides a foundation in integrated physiology and pharmacology so that students later in the programme will be able to benefit from practical components and transfer physiological and pharmacological principles to academic and clinical settings. Course components range from molecular and cell-based physiology and mechanism-oriented pharmacology to organ-based physiology, pathophysiology, and disease treatment. The course also includes activities related to career development, ethical considerations, professional attitudes, and sustainability from a global perspective, with a continuous progression of these topics throughout the programme.

In the second semester, students deepen their understanding of integrated physiology and pharmacology and the connections from cells and molecules to the entire human body. This is achieved through a course designed to provide broad knowledge in experimental methodologies and relevant model systems crucial for research in translational physiology and pharmacology. A course in computational modeling lays the foundation for students to perform basic computer-driven analyses, build models and simulations, and manage large datasets. Additionally, a course focusing on practical applications and scientific communication allows students to develop practical skills and interdisciplinary communication abilities.

Semester 3 includes 15-credit, second-cycle elective courses. The purpose of the elective courses is to allow students to broaden their knowledge in areas that facilitate future career choices or deepen their expertise in a research field relevant to the programme. Through a project course in collaboration with a research group or a company within the Life Science sector, students further develop their ability to apply subject-specific knowledge in fields such as basic research, clinical practice, or drug development.

Semester 4 is devoted to the degree project, which involves an in-depth exploration of a relevant area within the program. Through the degree project, students gain a deeper understanding of the scientific process and enhance their ability to critically evaluate information, providing strong preparation for further doctoral studies or a future career in the Life Science sector. Students also have the option to undertake a 45-credit thesis starting in the third semester, replacing the project course from that semester.

Scientific knowledge, competence and approach

During the programme, students develop scientifically based knowledge with a focus on scientific theory and methodology, and they are trained in how new knowledge can be interpreted and understood in relation to existing knowledge. Students practice searching for, reflecting on, critically evaluating, presenting, and discussing scientific information and hypotheses. Additionally, many courses include laboratory sessions under supervision, allowing students to develop practical skills and gain experience with relevant methods and experimental models.

Practice Integrated Learning

Practice integrated learning is a generic term for the pedagogical models based on interaction and integration between higher education and working life. Practice integrated learning may take the form of placements, study visits, observing teaching activities, staff exchange training schemes or field studies within out-patient and in-patient healthcare, municipal care and social care or other relevant activities.

Within the Master's Programme in Translational Physiology and Pharmacology, education is closely integrated with research groups in academia, clinical settings, and companies in the Life Science sector. Students have the opportunity to conduct project work and/or degree projects in collaboration with life science companies.

Cross-curricular perspectives

Interdisciplinary perspectives such as ethical considerations, sustainable development, equal opportunities, internationalization, and interprofessional competence are integrated throughout the program. Critical thinking and ethical reflection play a central role, with discussions on topics such as the use of human materials and data, research ethics, and quality assurance. Through the review of scientific work, discussions, and reflection on their own writing, students gain the ability to analyze ethical issues in physiology and pharmacology.

The programme includes activities and discussions on sustainable development from a global perspective, with a particular focus on career development, ethical values, and professional attitudes. These discussions are followed up throughout the programme, deepening students’ understanding of sustainability issues in both research and drug development.

The programme promotes an inclusive and equitable study environment, emphasizing equal opportunities for all students. Teaching methods encourage collaboration and diversity, incorporating various perspectives and experiences to strengthen students' ability to work in heterogeneous teams.

The programme has a strong international orientation, addressing global health challenges and international issues, preparing students for a global job market. Opportunities for international exchange are available during the second year, providing practical experience in research and professional settings in different countries.

The programme adopts a translational approach, equipping students with knowledge and skills essential for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment within academia, healthcare, and industry. This approach strengthens students’ ability to collaborate across disciplines and contribute to innovative solutions in medical research and development.

Elective courses

Semester 3 includes 15-credits of second-cycle elective courses. The purpose of these courses is to allow students to expand their knowledge and skills in areas that enhance employability, independence, or leadership in research and development projects. Examples include global health, science communication, science management, or entrepreneurship.

Other guidelines

Grading scale

The grades used are Fail, Pass or Pass with distinction. Alternative grading scales may apply to courses within the programme or to elective courses. The grading scale is detailed in the course syllabus

Language of instruction

The language of instruction is English.

Specific eligibility requirements within the programme

There are specific eligibility requirements for the courses within the programme. The eligibility requirements can be found in the syllabi. In cases where requirements are linked to the admission to a later semester, they are described on the programme website. There may also be specific eligibility requirements within a specific term if a course requires certain prior knowledge. Requirements for elective courses may also differ from requirements for other courses during the programme semester.

Study plan with constituent courses

Semester. Course name. Credits. Main field of study. Cycle

1. Integrated physiology and pharmacology. 30 credits. Translational physiology and pharmacology. Second.
2. Computational modelling in pharmacogenomics and drug development. 7,5 credits. Translational physiology and pharmacology. Second.
2. Methodological approaches in physiology and pharmacology. 15 credits. Translational physiology and pharmacology. Second.
2. Practical applications and scientific communication. 7,5 credits. Translational physiology and pharmacology. Second.
3. Elective courses. 15 credits. - .Second

Alternative 1

3. Research project in applied physiology and pharmacology. 15 credits. Translational physiology and pharmacology. Second.
4. Degree project in translational physiology and pharmacology. 30 credits. Translational physiology and pharmacology. Second.

Alternative 2

3 & 4. Degree project in translational physiology and pharmacology. 45 credits. Translational physiology and pharmacology. Second.