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Learn pathophysiology with online courses and programs

Pathophysiology is the study of how diseases or injuries disrupt and change the body. Learn more about pathophysiology with online courses delivered through edX.

What is pathophysiology?

Pathophysiology is a blend of pathology (how diseases work) and physiology (how a healthy body works) that examines the connection between disordered physiology and disease or illness. It is the scientific study of the functional changes in the body that result from disease and, as a branch of medicine, it seeks to understand the abnormal physiological processes that cause or are associated with disease or injury.

The study of pathophysiology involves using clinical reasoning to diagnose and treat the effects of disease. It started in the 19th century to describe the causes of illness, including germ theory and bacteriology. Now, pathophysiology involves technology and the study of gene expression. Exploration into precisely what makes people sick and how that condition can present itself, both with direct symptoms and secondary and tertiary issues, is a critical part of unlocking the secrets to a longer life.

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Pathophysiology course curriculum

Healthcare professionals, including registered nurses, doctors, and specialists, use pathophysiology to create treatment plans for patients who express some type of medical condition. Learning about pathophysiology can prepare you for a rewarding career in health sciences and could put you on the road to making significant discoveries about how our bodies work.

edX offers a variety of educational opportunities for learners interested in pathophysiology, as well as a host of other disciplines. These courses may cover topics related to the impact of nutrition on diseases, surgical care, the identification of certain medical conditions, and other related subjects.  

If you are interested in studying the field, explore the range of learning opportunities made available through edX. edX offers learners many different educational formats on a variety of topics including healthcare, science, and much more. A boot camp can provide flexible hands-on learning for those who want to upskill quickly, while executive education courses are designed for busy professionals. You can also pursue a more comprehensive curriculum in a bachelor’s degree program or, for more advanced learners, a master’s degree program. Find the right learning path for you.

Explore pathophysiology jobs

Pathophysiology can provide insight into how disease processes work and how to diagnose and treat symptoms and conditions holistically. Nursing students and healthcare professionals who have a deep understanding of the interplay between the body’s processes and disease could be able to make better diagnostic decisions for long-term care. 

Understanding pathophysiology fundamentals can help you build a career in the medical world of the future, including in the fields of research, healthcare, and education. Some career options include working as a clinical pathologist, medical researcher, pharmacologist, laboratory technician, nurse, medical consultant, and medical writer. If you are looking to build a career in this field, explore how edX can help you achieve your professional aspirations.

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