Undergraduate FAQs
What can I do with an HPHY degree?
A large percentage of HPHY graduates pursue careers in allied health professions. These include
(and are not limited to): medicine, physical and occupational therapy, homeopathy, osteopathy,
dentistry, optometry, physicians assistant, podiatry, nursing, EMT, athletic training, and
chiropractic. Another option is graduate study in Human Physiology. There are many schools
around the country providing such study opportunities. Health clubs and corporate fitness/risk
management are an expanding market for employment.
Students are encouraged to explore many areas to find out what interests them and work closely
with the faculty advisor for tips on exploring various career opportunities. For more information
there are pre-health advisors located at 164 Oregon Hall.
Am I going to graduate on time?
Check your transcripts and degree audit often to be make sure that you are successfully completing all the requirements. If any questions arise, ask a Peer or the faculty advisor.
Do you have to take the HPHY core classes in order?
No, but many of them have important pre- or co-requisites.
Which classes?
- Human Physiology (HPHY 313 and 314) must be completed before HPHY 371.
- Human Anatomy (ANAT 311 and 312) are pre-requisite to HPHY 362 and 381.
- Physics (PHYS 201) is a pre-requisite to HPHY 381.
- Finally, you must complete the corresponding 300 level course before you can enroll in a 400 level seminar. Example: If you wish to take HPHY 471, you must have completed HPHY 371. (Notice the second digit is the same.)
Are there any scholarships through the HPHY department?
Yes. Please check out our scholarships webpage, and you might also want to check out the Financial Aid Office website.
How do I find and get involved in opportunities for "hands on" study in the department?
Many of the professors welcome qualified undergraduates to work in their lab for upper division credit or other compensation. If the student is interested in a particular area, they should talk to the professor about options after completing the professor's class. There are many other Practicum and Internship Opportunities for HPHY Majors. Please see the faculty advisor for more information.
HPHY has many pre-requisites. How can I optimize my chances for success?
With the correct information and some organization and planning, it is not difficult to successfully complete all the requirements on time. Completing the chemistry sequence during the first year is one critical component. If you have questions, see your faculty advisor.
Can I complete the HPHY major core courses in a year?
Maybe. This course of action is not recommended but it is more plausible if you have completed Anatomy and Physiology before starting the major courses. The HPHY core courses alone add up to 24 credits. Remember, they are core classes, which mean they are not easy.
Which courses do I have to take with a "graded" option?
Prerequisite and major-requirement courses must be taken for letter grades. Students MUST maintain a 2.0 overall GPA and a 2.0 GPA in courses required for the major with no course grade lower than a C minus. For more information, contact Stephanie Swayne at the undergraduate studies office, 122-C Esslinger Hall. Phone: 346-4107
Where may I get help?
Contact Peer Advisors, or contact the department office at 346-4107 to schedule an appointment with the faculty advisor, Richard Troxel.