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.
Is this for you?
This degree could suit you if you:
Are interested in microorganisms
Enjoy biology and lab work
Want a science or healthcare career
Like research
Are detail-oriented
Popular Career Fields
Pharmaceuticals & Biotechnology
Research & Academia
Healthcare & Public Health
Food Safety & Regulation
Your Personality Might Be:
Detail-oriented
Research & Academia
Methodical worker
Curious investigator
What is it?
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.
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Course Summary
If you're curious about how bacteria, viruses, and microorganisms shape the world, from human health to food production, a microbiology degree could be a great fit.
What you'll study
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
Skills You'll Gain
A Microbiology degree builds scientific and research skills including:
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.
Pathways, Placements and Work Experience
CAREERS
Career Pathways
Graduates can pursue careers in:
Clinical and diagnostic laboratories
Biomedical and microbiology research
Biotechnology and pharmaceuticals
Public health and infection control
Quality assurance and laboratory management
Science communication or policy
Work Experiences & Placements
Many Microbiology degrees offer opportunities to gain applied experience.
Some programmes include an optional placement year or industrial training, while others support summer internships or research placements.
Typical opportunities include:
Hospital or clinical laboratories
Biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies
Public health and diagnostic laboratories
University research groups
Food, water, or environmental testing laboratories
Work experience is particularly valuable for clinical and laboratory careers.
Salary Profile
Coming soon
Qualifications, Personal Satement, What to do Next?
AM I ELIGIBLE?
Entry Requirements
A-levels or equivalent including Biology and Chemistry. Some universities may accept Biology plus one other Science. Both Biology and Chemistry are strongly recommended.
Personal Statement Tips
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.
What to do Next
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.
Wider Reading
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.