Healthcare Science
Healthcare science in the physiological sciences is the clinical discipline concerned with investigating how the body's organ systems function and diagnosing the conditions that arise when they do not work as they should. Clinical physiologists work directly with patients, conducting diagnostic tests and delivering therapies in a range of specialisms, including cardiac physiology, respiratory physiology, neurophysiology, audiology and gastrointestinal physiology. They are part of the multidisciplinary clinical team that diagnoses and manages long-term conditions, acute illness and disability, and their work directly affects the treatment decisions made by doctors and other healthcare professionals.
At City St George's, University of London, the three-year full-time BSc develops your understanding of human physiology, pathophysiology and the scientific principles underlying diagnostic testing and clinical measurement. You will study the structure and function of the major organ systems, the physical and biological principles that underlie diagnostic technologies, and the clinical contexts in which physiological testing is used. Clinical placements are central to the degree, giving you direct experience of working with patients in NHS settings and developing the practical and professional skills that clinical practice requires.
City St George's location in London gives access to a wide range of NHS trusts and clinical environments, enriching the placement opportunities and exposing you to a diverse patient population.
Graduates register with the Health and Care Professions Council as Clinical Scientists or Healthcare Scientists and work in NHS hospitals, private hospitals and specialist clinics. Postgraduate study and continuing professional development are important in a profession that is continuously evolving as new diagnostic technologies and therapeutic approaches are developed. Senior roles in specialist clinical physiology, research and service management are accessible with experience and further qualification.