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Physiology and Related Studies is a degree category that consists of the following common degrees:
- Read more about Endocrinology
Endocrinology programs, therefore, teach doctors in training about the many glands that make up the endocrine system, specifically:
- Adrenal glands – two glands located atop the kidneys that secrete cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, and aldosterone, which regulates blood pressure and sodium levels
- Hypothalamus – a part of the lower middle brain that tells the pituitary gland when to release hormones
- Ovaries – the female reproductive organs that produce the female sex hormones
- Pancreas – an organ in the abdomen that makes digestive enzymes that break down food and also makes the hormones insulin and glucagon
- Parathyroid – four small glands behind the thyroid that play a role in bone health and regulation of calcium in the blood
- Pineal gland – a gland in the center of the brain that produces the chemical melatonin, which regulates sleep patterns
- Pituitary gland – the endocrine system’s master gland, which uses information it gets from the brain to tell other glands in the body what to do
- Testes – the male reproductive glands that produce male sex hormones
- Thymus gland – an organ in the upper chest that makes white blood cells that fight infection and are crucial to the development of immune system in early life
- Thyroid gland – a butterfly-shaped organ in the neck that controls metabolism
- Read more about Cardiopulmonary Science
Degree programs in cardiopulmonary science prepare students to work as cardiopulmonary technologists and respiratory therapists. These professionals assist doctors with the diagnosis and treatment of patients with heart (cardio) and lung (pulmonary) conditions that affect breathing and blood circulation.
The curriculum, which has its foundations in biology, chemistry, anatomy, physiology, and microbiology, covers respiratory care for neonatal, pediatric, and adult patients; diagnostic testing; acute care and outpatient therapeutic techniques; and operation and maintenance of instrumentation involved in these procedures.
- Read more about Exercise Physiology
Exercise physiology is a specialization within the field of kinesiology. It is focused on the human body’s response and adaptation to physical activity.
Exercise physiologists analyze their clients’ fitness to help them improve their health, maintain good health, or achieve athletic performance goals. They administer exercise stress tests, paying particular attention to heart and lung strength, and then design appropriate fitness plans.
Students of exercise physiology study anatomy and physiology, anatomical and mechanical kinesiology, cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, exercise prescription, and nutrition. In less technical terms, they learn how to help people live their longest, best life possible.