Studying microbiology at university
Example course modules
- Genetic manipulation
- Metabolism and molecular biology
- Molecular ecology and evolution
- Genome expression and organisation
- Advanced microbial function
- Bacterial genetics
- Animal biodiversity
- Virology
- The multicellular organism
- Principles of pharmacology
Teaching hours / week
Average for this subject
Average for all subjects
Average hours for this subject: 15 (Low N/A - High N/A). Average hours for all subjects: 14.
The time you'll spend in lectures and seminars each week will vary from university to university, so use this as a guide.
Who studies this subject
What students say about microbiology
What you need to get on a course
Subjects you need
A-levels (or equivalent) usually required
- Biology
Useful to have
- Chemistry
- Physics
- Mathematics
Application checklist
Here's a guide to what to expect from the application process - also check individual university entry requirements, as these may differ.
- January application
- October application
- Personal statement
- Portfolio
- Interview
- Entry test
- Work experience
- Audition
Personal statement advice
Your personal statement is a core part of your university application, and getting it just right takes time. Before you start work on yours, take a look at our five quick tips on writing a personal statement. We'll help you past that writer's block!
Personal statement tips and advice
Career prospects
Six months after graduating
- Science, engineering and production technicians
Longer term career paths
Jobs where this degree is useful
- MLSO (Medical Laboratory Scientific Officer)
- Microbiologist (includes bacteriologists, virologists and mycologists)
- Clinical research associate
Other real-life job examples
- Toxicologist
- Quality assurance officer
- Immunologist
What employers like about this subject
Students taking a microbiology degree can gain a range of subject-specific skills including genetics, biochemistry and the use of microbiology in industry. Transferable skills you can develop include advanced numeracy, written and spoken communication, presentation, project management and research skills, and microbiology graduates are in demand from employers such as hospitals, universities, clinical and scientific analysts, the pharmaceutical industry, the food industry and the water industry. If you are aiming for a career in research, you will usually need to take a postgraduate qualification (probably a doctorate) after your first degree, and so postgraduate study is a common option for microbiology graduates.
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