Animal and Plant Physiology 15 credits
About the course
The course is divided into two parts, Animal Physiology 7.5 credits and Plant Physiology 7.5 credits.
Animal Physiology:
Module 1, theory and group work 6 credits
The animal physiology section begins with an overview of the diversity of the animal world, followed by analysis of the life processes of multicellular animals, mainly at the level of the organism. The course will provide basic knowledge about the development and composition of organs and organ systems within the animal world, illustrated by a comparison between mammals and various selected animal groups. These may constitute examples of representative adaptations of the animals and their organ systems to their typical living conditions. Connections between cellular mechanisms, form, function and the organism's environment are emphasized.
Module 2, laboratories, studies of histological sections and theme work concerning physiological principles and adaptations 1.5 credits
In the practical sessions, the student becomes familiar with the anatomy and physiology of humans and selected laboratory animals. The part is performed individually or in a group.
Plant Physiology:
Module 3, theory 5 credits
The plant physiology theory focuses on what is unique in plants and in plant's cells, including growth, anatomy, differentiation, metabolism, photosynthesis, stress physiology and flowering. Emphasis is given to cell growth, synthesis, cell stretching, three genome, gene regulation, plant hormones and natural products. In addition, plant model systems, transformation methods, in vitro culture of plants, tissue-specific expression, and databases relevant to plant biotechnology will be discussed. During the course, various organizational levels will be integrated, from the molecular to ecosystem function (e.g. biotic interactions, herbivory, plant chemistry, balance between growth and defense and the use of plants as detectors for e.g. for chemicals.
Module 4, laboratories, written work, group discussion and oral presentation of a topic within the scope of the course content. 2.5 credits
In the practical aspects (2.5 credits), training in the working methods of plant physiology is provided.
Apply
-
Spring 2026
-
Animal and Plant Physiology
Spring 2026 / Umeå / English / On site
Application opens 15 September 2025Show more Show less
Starts24 March 2026
Ends7 June 2026
Number of credits15 credits
Type of studiesOn site
Study pace100%
Teaching hoursDaytime
Study locationUmeå
LanguageEnglish
Application codeUMU-51528
Eligibility 20 ECTS from finished courses in Chemistry, including at least 5 ECTS in Biochemistry, or alternatively, 20 ECTS from a combination of finished courses in Chemistry and Physics and/or Mathematics, including at least 5 ECTS in Biochemistry; 30 ECTS from finished courses in Biology, these credits must contain Molecular Biology, Genetics, and Cell Biology.SelectionAcademic credits
ApplicationThe online application opens 15 September 2025 at 09:00 CET. Application deadline is 15 October 2025.
Application and tuition feesAs a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
Application fee: SEK 900
Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 38,075
Total fee: SEK 38,075
-
How to apply
Apply online via universityadmissions.se
You apply to our programmes and courses via universityadmissions.se – the official website for higher education applications in Sweden. There, you can track your application, check that your documents have been registered, and log in to find our your admission results.
Late applications
Admissions to most programmes and courses typically close after the final application deadline. However, some programmes and courses may still accept late applications if seats are available. These are marked “Open for late application” on universityadmissions.se. Please note that late applications are not guaranteed to be reviewed.
More about application and admission
Explore your future at Umeå University
Join a vibrant academic community where high-quality education meets groundbreaking research in science, technology, humanities, and the arts. At Umeå University, you will learn from passionate, expert teachers and benefit from a close connection between research, education, collaboration, and innovation.
-
World's most satisfied international students
#1 globally in the main categories of Living, Support, and Overall Satisfaction.
-
A university with health at its core
Umeå University is certified as a Healthy Campus, with many initiatives that promote health and well-being.
Questions about the course?
Good to know
How to apply
A step-by-step guide to apply for studies at Umeå University.
International Student Guide
Essential information for your journey to Umeå and your studies here.
Study guidance
A study counsellor can help you with many of your study-related questions.