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Image from Microbiology
Image from Microbiology
Image from Microbiology

Master of Biology - MBiol (Hons)

Microbiology

University of Leeds

(4.2)
146 reviews

Entry requirements

Here's what you will need to get a place on the Microbiology course at University of Leeds.

Select a qualification to see required grades

A level

A,A,A

AAA Including biology or chemistry and another science or science-related subject. Critical thinking and general studies excluded. We accept the following: Science: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics. Science-related: computing, environmental science, food science, geography, geology, PE, psychology, statistics. Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement. When an applicant is taking any of the following: Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) Cambridge International Project Qualification (Cambridge IPQ) Core Maths (if A-level Maths or Further Maths isn't studied as a full A-level) AS Maths (if A-level Maths or Further Maths isn't studied as a full A-level) Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate It will be considered alongside A-levels and may attract an alternative offer in addition to the standard offer. If you are taking A-levels, this would be a 1 grade drop from the standard offer. For example an A in one of the above qualifications with AAB at A-level (MBiol applicants).

Course summary

What this course is about

UCAS code: C509

Here's what University of Leeds says about its Microbiology course.

Microbiology is the study of organisms too small to be visible with the naked eye, including bacteria, fungi and viruses. This course will cover an area of science fundamental to the understanding of life on this planet – from human and animal disease, better food production to microbial involvement in global cycles.

You will study a range of microbiological topics with a biomedical focus, such as bacterial resistance to antibiotics, the use of microbes in biotechnology, and how new pathogens, such as the cause of COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2), emerge and cause disease.

By studying at Leeds, you’ll be part of the next generation of expert scientists, developing specialist knowledge and skills, whilst building on the foundations of microbiology within areas such as immunology, genetics, biochemistry and cell biology.

This integrated Masters (MBiol) gives you an additional year of specialist training, to study advanced research topics and undertake your own extended research project. You may also choose to apply for?our 3 year BSc?and transfer to an MBiol up until the end of your second year, subject to suitable academic performance.

Course highlights

  • Weekly practical classes in the first two years of your degree, with the option to experience working in a research lab in your final year..

  • Our teaching is research-led at every stage of your degree, ensuring that you engage with cutting-edge scientific developments and techniques from the start of your studies through to your final-year projects.

  • Experience world-class facilities and be part of a cutting-edge research-active environment.

  • Enjoy outstanding graduate employability opportunities amongst top employers, both within and beyond scientific research.

  • Gain further practical experience and boost your employability through our Year in Industry programme.

  • Experience life and learning in a different country through our study abroad programme, where you'll gain fresh perspectives and develop skills valued by employers.

Flexible degrees Microbiology is a?specialist degree within the School of Molecular and Cellular Biology, which offers you flexibility throughout your time at Leeds.

All our School of Molecular and Cellular Biology degree courses share the same set of compulsory modules in the first year. A key benefit of having a common first year is that at the end of year 1, there are opportunities to transfer onto degree courses in Biological Sciences and Biotechnology and Enterprise, subject to approval. Additional degree courses may be available depending on your academic background.

Facilities The School of Molecular and Cellular Biology is an international research hub with?outstanding facilities?for structural biology, biophysics, cell biology and imaging.

This is underpinned by a recent £17 million investment by the University and a large grant portfolio from major external funders (the Wellcome Trust, Royal Society, BBSRC and MRC). These facilities underpin our research-led teaching and allow us to offer final-year projects at the frontier of modern research.

Recently refurbished teaching labs and dedicated computer clusters will allow you to develop your practical and computational skills during the first two years of your course. The Student Opportunity Team provides expert support for preparing applications for placements, internships and jobs.

Source: University of Leeds

Course details

There are a few options in how you might study Microbiology at University of Leeds.

Check the

3 course options available.

Qualification

Master of Biology - MBiol (Hons)

Department

Faculty of Biological Sciences

Location

Main Site | Leeds

Duration

5 Years

Study mode

Full-time with year in industry

Subjects

• Microbiology

Start date

23 September 2026

Application deadline

14 January 2026

University of Leeds reviews

(4.2)
Based on 146 reviews from University of Leeds's students and alumni
5 star
41%
4 star
42%
3 star
14%
2 star
2%
1 star
1%
All reviews

Showing 128 reviews

3rd year student

The Student Union at the University of Leeds is exceptional. It offers robust support, diverse activities, and represents student interests effectively. From welfare services to inclusive events, the union enhances student life and fosters a sense of community on campus. It's truly a vital resource ...

(5)

1 year ago

3rd year student

University life at the University of Leeds is vibrant and diverse, offering state-of-the-art facilities, a rich community, and numerous opportunities for academic and personal growth. With a wide range of clubs, societies, and events, students can engage in various activities and build lifelong conn...

(5)

1 year ago

3rd year student

the university offers various support services, including financial aid advice and budgeting assistance, to help students manage their expenses effectively.

(5)

1 year ago

3rd year student

From counseling and mental health resources to career guidance and academic assistance, students have access to comprehensive support throughout their university journey. The university also provides various student-led initiatives and programs aimed at fostering inclusivity and community engagement...

(5)

1 year ago

3rd year student

The faculty at the University of Leeds, especially within the International Relations department, is exceptionally knowledgeable and supportive. They are passionate about teaching and go the extra mile to ensure students understand complex concepts. Approachable and dedicated, they inspire students ...

(5)

1 year ago

3rd year student

The diverse academic programs in international relations have provided me with valuable insights into global affairs and diplomatic relations. The faculty members, with their expertise and guidance, have been instrumental in shaping my understanding of complex geopolitical issues.

(5)

1 year ago

National Student Survey (NSS) scores

The NSS is an annual survey where final-year students are asked to rate different aspects of their course and university experience.

Here you can see ratings from University of Leeds students who took the Microbiology course - or another course in the same subject area.

Microbiology and cell science

Select an option to see a detailed breakdown

How often does your course challenge you to achieve your best work?

89%

med

How good are teaching staff at explaining things?

95%

med

How often do teaching staff make the subject engaging?

89%

high

How often is the course intellectually stimulating?

89%

low

To what extent have you had the chance to bring together information and ideas from different topics?

84%

med

How well does your course introduce subjects and skills in a way that builds on what you have already learned?

89%

med

How well has your course developed your knowledge and skills that you think you will need for your future?

89%

med

To what extent have you had the chance to explore ideas and concepts in depth?

95%

high

To what extent does your course have the right balance of directed and independent study?

89%

high

How well have assessments allowed you to demonstrate what you have learned?

79%

med

How fair has the marking and assessment been on your course?

79%

med

How often does feedback help you to improve your work?

58%

low

How often have you received assessment feedback on time?

95%

high

How clear were the marking criteria used to assess your work?

74%

med

How easy was it to contact teaching staff when you needed to?

79%

low

How well have teaching staff supported your learning?

84%

med

How well were any changes to teaching on your course communicated?

79%

low

How well organised is your course?

95%

high

How well have the IT resources and facilities supported your learning?

71%

low

How well have the library resources (e.g., books, online services and learning spaces) supported your learning?

88%

med

How easy is it to access subject specific resources (e.g., equipment, facilities, software) when you need them?

82%

med

How clear is it that students' feedback on the course is acted on?

79%

high

To what extent do you get the right opportunities to give feedback on your course?

89%

med

To what extent are students' opinions about the course valued by staff?

95%

high

How well does the students' union (association or guild) represent students' academic interests?

84%

med

During your studies, how free did you feel to express your ideas, opinions, and beliefs?

95%

med

How well communicated was information about your university/college's mental wellbeing support services?

83%

med

Student information

See who's studying at University of Leeds. These students are taking Microbiology or another course from the same subject area.

Microbiology and cell science
Mode of study
Full-time100%
Gender ratio
Female59%Male41%
Where students come from
International15%UK85%
Student performance
2:1 or above83%
Number of students85
Most popular A-levels studied
SubjectGrade
BiologyA
ChemistryA
MathematicsA
PhysicsA
PsychologyA
Source: HESA

Graduate prospects

What graduates do next

Facts and figures about University of Leeds graduates who took Microbiology - or another course in the same subject area.

Microbiology and cell science

Graduate statistics

90%

In a job where degree was essential or beneficial

90%

In work, study or other activity

65%

Say it fits with future plans

35%

Are utilising studies

Top job areas

35%

Science, engineering and technology associate professionals

20%

Natural and social science professionals

15%

Quality and Regulatory Professionals

10%

Business and public service associate professionals

Graduate statistics percentages are determined 15 months after a student graduates

Earnings after graduation

Earnings from University of Leeds graduates who took Microbiology - or another course in the same subject area.

Biosciences

Earnings

£23.7k

First year after graduation

£29.2k

Third year after graduation

£33.9k

Fifth year after graduation

Shown here are the median earnings of graduates at one, three and five years after they completed a course related to Microbiology.

Source: LEO

Note: this data only looks at employees (and not those who are self-employed or also studying) and covers a broad sample of graduates and the various paths they've taken, which might not always be a direct result of their degree

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