Welcome to the Department of Human Physiology, Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria.
Human physiology lies at the heart of medicine and the health sciences, providing the scientific foundation for understanding the mechanisms that sustain life and the processes underlying health and disease. At Kaduna State University, we believe that physiology is more than the study of how the human body functions; it provides a fundamental framework for clinical practice and the health sciences. We strive to nurture healthcare professionals, scientists, and scholars who are equipped to address contemporary health challenges and contribute meaningfully to society.
Through rigorous teaching, practical laboratory training, and mentorship, the Department contributes to the training of students in Medicine and Surgery, Pharmacy, and the Allied Health Sciences, providing a strong physiological foundation for modern healthcare. Building on this tradition, the Department recently introduced postgraduate programmes in Human Physiology, including the Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) and Master of Science (MSc), aimed at developing the next generation of researchers, educators, and healthcare leaders.
At the core of our mission is a commitment to meaningful scholarship that connects physiology with the health challenges facing our communities and the wider world. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and community-focused research, we aim to translate scientific discoveries into sustainable clinical and public health solutions. We are equally committed to fostering entrepreneurship, problem-solving, and intellectual curiosity, preparing our students to thrive in an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.
Established in 2011 within the former Faculty of Medicine, the Department of Human Physiology is one of the foundational departments of the College of Medicine, Kaduna State University, Kaduna, Nigeria. In March 2017, the Faculty of Medicine was restructured into the College of Medicine, comprising the Faculties of Basic Medical Sciences, Basic Clinical Sciences, and Clinical Sciences. The Department became part of the Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences and has continued to contribute to the College’s teaching, research, and healthcare training mission.
The Department provides foundational and applied training in physiology that integrates classroom teaching, practical laboratory experience, and student-centred learning. This approach enables students to understand the complex mechanisms underlying human health and disease while cultivating scientific curiosity and professional skills essential for modern healthcare and biomedical practice.
As a key academic unit within the College of Medicine, the Department provides teaching and research support for students in Medicine and Surgery (MBBS), Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing Science, Physiotherapy, and Radiography. The Department provides a strong physiological foundation for students preparing to meet the evolving demands of modern healthcare.
Research within the Department is driven by a commitment to knowledge generation, innovation, and interdisciplinary collaboration. Academic staff and students engage in basic, applied, and translational research addressing important questions in human health and disease. Through interdisciplinary collaboration and community-oriented scholarship, the Department seeks to generate knowledge with relevance to healthcare, biomedical science, and public health.
Building on its commitment to advanced scholarship, the Department expanded its academic portfolio in the 2024/2025 academic session with the introduction of postgraduate programmes leading to the Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) and Master of Science (MSc) in Human Physiology. These programmes are designed to promote research competence, professional development, and the advancement of physiological sciences.
Today, the Department of Human Physiology continues to evolve as a dynamic centre for teaching, research, and innovation, dedicated to producing competent healthcare professionals and generating knowledge that contributes to the improvement of health and well-being at local, national, and global levels.
The Department of Human Physiology traces its roots to the inception of medical education at Kaduna State University, following the establishment of the Faculty of Medicine in 2008 and the admission of the pioneer set of students in 2009. In 2011, the Department, alongside other Basic Medical Science Departments, moved into its permanent facilities and commenced full academic activities, becoming one of the foundational departments responsible for the training of future healthcare professionals and the advancement of biomedical knowledge within the University.
The Department initially commenced academic activities with the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) programme, providing the scientific foundation upon which medical education and clinical practice are built. As the University expanded its academic offerings, the Department’s teaching responsibilities grew significantly with the introduction of the Bachelor of Pharmacy programme in the 2012/2013 academic session, which has since transitioned to the Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) programme. Supported by well-equipped laboratories and comprehensive practical manuals that serve as laboratory guides and integrated report workbooks, the Department provides students with hands-on training in experimental physiology, scientific observation, and technical report writing, while fostering a strong culture of mentorship and scholarship.
The Department’s development continued alongside the restructuring of the Faculty of Medicine into the College of Medicine in March 2017, with the Department becoming part of the newly established Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences. Its academic mandate was further broadened in the 2019/2020 academic session with the commencement of Allied Health Sciences programmes, including Medical Laboratory Science, Nursing Science, Physiotherapy, and Radiography, reflecting its growing contribution to interdisciplinary healthcare education.
A major milestone in the University’s journey towards becoming a centre of excellence in medical training was the successful accreditation of the MBBS programme. Initial accreditation was granted by the National Universities Commission (NUC) in 2015, followed by the accreditation of the preclinical phase by the Medical and Dental Council of Nigeria (MDCN) in 2016. Clinical accreditation was subsequently granted in March 2018, culminating in full MDCN accreditation in December 2019. These achievements paved the way for the induction of the pioneer class of fifty medical doctors into the medical profession on 30 December 2020, marking a defining moment in the history of medical education at Kaduna State University.
Academic staff actively participate in local and international conferences, workshops, and seminars, fostering scientific collaboration and professional development. A significant milestone in the Department’s development was hosting the 37th Annual Scientific Conference and Annual General Meeting of the Physiological Society of Nigeria (PSN) in 2017, reflecting its growing visibility within the national physiology community.
In furtherance of its commitment to advanced scholarship and knowledge generation, the Department expanded its academic portfolio in the 2024/2025 academic session with the introduction of postgraduate programmes leading to the award of the Postgraduate Diploma (PGD) and Master of Science (MSc) in Human Physiology. Today, the Department stands as a dynamic academic community committed to excellence in physiology education, innovative research, and impactful service to society, while preparing future healthcare professionals and scientists to address emerging health challenges within Nigeria and beyond.
The Department of Human Physiology offers dynamic programs for undergraduate and postgraduate students, focusing on physiology, human health, and biomedical sciences.
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Programs yet to commence waiting for Accreditation include
Through commitment to cutting-edge research, our department excels in pioneering advancements in human physiology, fostering innovative practices and knowledge.
The departmental research focus:
Metabolic syndrome, its relationship to other non-communicable diseases (Obesity, type 2 diabetes, Cardiovascular disorders, gastrointestinal and neurodegenerative disorders) and remedy to delay or reverses health complications associated to these disorders through understanding their molecular pathophysiological basis and systematic approach interventions.
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Moreover, our department’s commitment to aligning with the latest developments in medical research empowers us to excel in cutting-edge practices within the field of human physiology. By staying at the forefront of scientific discovery, we provide students with a deep understanding of physiological mechanisms and innovative approaches to health science. This dedication ensures our graduates are well-prepared to contribute to advancements in medical research and patient care.
THE LIBRARY
The guiding philosophy of the Department of Human Physiology at Kaduna State University is to provide students and researchers with access to extensive, high-quality resources essential for understanding the complexities of human physiological processes. These resources include:
These resources are designed to support rigorous research, clinical skills development, and advancements in the study of human physiology, fostering excellence in education and patient care.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
The Department of Human Physiology at Kaduna State University is dedicated to addressing critical health challenges within the Nigerian community by promoting a deeper understanding of human physiology in relation to public health and wellness. Our mission is to contribute to the well-being of Nigerians through research, education, and community-based initiatives that elevate health standards and address common health disparities.
Our community engagement includes outreach programs to educate the public on the importance of physiological health, preventive care, and healthy lifestyle practices. Through collaborations with local healthcare providers and clinics, we promote awareness of prevalent conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and metabolic disorders, which are critical areas where knowledge of human physiology plays a significant role. By conducting health screenings and providing resources on lifestyle adjustments, we empower individuals and communities to make informed health choices.
In addition, we support local healthcare workers through training sessions focused on enhancing diagnostic and treatment skills in physiological health. These initiatives improve healthcare delivery, particularly in under-resourced areas, by enabling better patient outcomes and supporting the economic stability of communities through improved public health.
Through our commitment to service, education, and research, the Department of Human Physiology strives to be a leader in advancing health equity and fostering a healthier future for Nigerian communities.
STUDENTS ACTIVITIES
At Kaduna State University, student development is central to our mission, shaping the next generation of leaders in human physiology. The Department of Human Physiology provides dynamic learning experiences and encourages students to actively engage in opportunities that will support their future careers. Our programs include:
The Department is committed to nurturing skilled professionals equipped to make significant contributions to healthcare, research, and public health, advancing knowledge and enhancing the well-being of society.
STUDENTS HANDBOOK
The Department of Human Physiology at Kaduna State University provides a detailed guide for both staff and students, outlining the department’s activities, policies, and resources over a designated period. This guide serves as an essential tool for navigating the department and includes information on:
For further inquiries or assistance, please contact the Head of Department.
