Program Description

This three-year course will provide a broad understanding of microbiology with an emphasis on topics of medical relevance. Students learn how microbes live, as well as ways to disrupt disease processes. YStudents study the importance of bacteria, viruses and other microbes in the environment and as pathogens. They will also discover how their genetic makeup can be manipulated to put microbes to good use in biotechnology. Additionally, students learn how to tackle the threat of antimicrobial-resistant infections, and understand the role that microbiology continues to play in supporting the global response to pandemics such as Covid-19.

From first year, students will study modules that span the molecular biosciences covering microbiology, biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology. Alongside these modules, students will have the freedom to explore complementary topics across the breadth of bioscience, such as biomedicine, ecology, plant science, and zoology. This flexibility allows students to study microbiology in greater depth, broaden their interests, or even switch to another biosciences degree programme. No matter what modules students to study, they will develop the practical laboratory and transferable skills that make graduates attractive to employers, including project management, problem solving, communication skills and data analysis.

Students get plenty of opportunities to apply their new skills and knowledge. They will be in the lab completing in-depth practicals across molecular genetics, DNA manipulation, and protein structure analysis. Students will also get the chance to use cutting-edge equipment to run their own in-depth research projects.

This course is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology which shows employers understanding of the practical skills and scientific knowledge that they're looking for.