Microbiology BSc
Study of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, exploring how they function, evolve, and interact with humans, animals, and the environment.
YOUR PERSONALITY MIGHT BE:
Detail-oriented
Scientific minded
Methodical worker
Curious investigator
POPULAR CAREER FIELDS
Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
Research & Academia
Healthcare & Public Health
Food Safety & Regulation
Is this for you?
Microbiology BSc
Is this for you?
WHAT IS IT?
Study of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, exploring how they function, evolve, and interact with humans, animals, and the environment.
CAREER OPTIONS
CURRENT APPRENTICESHIPS, INTERNSHIPS & WORKPLACES
Internships
Apprenticeships
Uni Open Days
FIND OUT MORE
About the Course
What is a Microbiology degree?
Microbiology focuses on the biology of microscopic organisms and their roles in health, disease, industry, and ecosystems.
You’ll study how microbes grow, reproduce, cause infection, and contribute to processes such as immunity, biotechnology, food production, and environmental cycling.The degree combines molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and laboratory science, making it ideal for students interested in medical, clinical, or applied biological careers.
Why study Microbiology?
If you’re interested in infectious disease, biotechnology, or how invisible organisms shape life on Earth, Microbiology offers both scientific depth and real-world relevance.
It helps you understand:How bacteria and viruses cause and spread disease
The human immune response to infection
Antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance, and public health
Industrial and environmental applications of microbes
Laboratory techniques used in medical and research settings
Microbiology is central to modern medicine, biotechnology, and global health.
This degree covers topics such as:
Bacteriology, virology, and mycology
Microbial genetics and genomics
Immunology and host–pathogen interactions
Molecular biology and biochemistry
Antimicrobial resistance and infection control
Laboratory techniques and biosafety
Laboratory and aseptic technique skills – enabling safe and accurate handling of microorganisms.
Molecular and analytical skills – helping you analyse genetic and biochemical data.
Scientific reasoning and problem-solving – supporting evidence-based conclusions.
Scientific communication – preparing you to write reports and explain findings clearly.
A-levels or equivalent including Biology and Chemistry. Some universities may accept Biology plus one other Science. Both Biology and Chemistry are strongly recommended.
Show interest in microbes, disease, or laboratory science.
Mention relevant biology or chemistry topics that inspired you.
Highlight laboratory experience or scientific projects if available.
Demonstrate attention to detail, curiosity, and analytical thinking.
Microbiology – Prescott, Harley & Klein
A comprehensive and widely used introduction to microbiology.Spillover – David Quammen
An engaging exploration of emerging infectious diseases.Antimicrobial Resistance – World Health Organization Reports
Essential reading on one of the biggest challenges in modern medicine.The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks – Rebecca Skloot
A powerful intersection of microbiology, ethics, and medical history.
Look for courses offering laboratory placements or clinical pathways.
Gain lab experience through volunteering or internships if possible.
Stay informed about infectious disease and antimicrobial resistance.
Consider postgraduate training aligned with your career goals.
Microbiology - Microbiologist, clinical microbiologist, industrial microbiologist
Clinical Microbiology - Clinical microbiologist, medical laboratory scientist, infection control specialist
Laboratory Work - Laboratory technician, biomedical scientist, microbiology analyst
Pharmaceutical - Pharmaceutical microbiologist, sterility testing specialist, contamination control
Food Industry - Food microbiologist, food safety officer, quality control microbiologist
Research - Research scientist, microbiology researcher, infectious disease researcher
Public Health - Public health microbiologist, epidemiologist, disease surveillance specialist
Quality Control - Quality control microbiologist, environmental monitoring specialist
Water Testing - Water quality scientist, environmental microbiologist, public analyst
Biotechnology - Industrial microbiologist, fermentation scientist, bioprocess specialist
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