Microbiology Bachelor of Science (with Honours) - BSc (Hons)

Microorganisms are miniscule living beings which are too small to see with the naked eye, and are integral to human, animal and plant life. They’re crucial to a range of industries which underpin human lifestyles, from food and drink production to medicine manufacture, and are the key to understanding disease. Microbiologists find ways we can use these microorganisms; develop innovative solutions to global problems like climate change, pollution and antibiotic resistance; and uncover the causes, behaviours and treatments of diseases.

On this BSc Microbiology degree, you’ll delve into the microscopic worlds of bacteria, fungi, single-celled parasites and viruses. Taking a medical and research-focused approach, you’ll get comfortable working in professional-standard labs, and learn how microbiology applies to industry, biotechnology and human society.

Here at NTU, your learning will be hands-on. You’ll become a competent microbiologist, with all the technical knowhow, transferable skills and specialist knowledge you need to lead and assist in some of today’s most crucial research.

Why study BSc (Hons) Microbiology at NTU?

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Through group work and the Practical Techniques for Biology and Professional Skills in Microbiology modules, you’ll start designing your own experiments and trying things out. Problem solving skills are valuable for any graduate and we make sure you develop these right from the start of your course, with lots of opportunities to test things out and learn by doing. We’ve also embedded employability skills in the course, so you are not only learning theory and skills, but you know where to find your dream job and how to apply for it.

This microbiology course has the very latest medical research and real-world application at its core. You’ll hone your practical lab skills as you handle, grow and identify microbes safely; learn how to conduct your own academic research; get to grips with computer-based microbiology; and delve into all aspects of infectious disease — from diagnostics, outbreak and spread to control, treatment and prevention.

You’ll also explore specialised topics such as microbial genetics and metabolism, antibiotics, immunology, virology, bioinformatics, synthetic biology, and environmental, forensic and molecular microbiology.

Some highlights of our microbiology degree include:

* An applied and medical-focused approach to microbiology, exploring its industrial uses and discovering the breadths of infectious disease.

* Accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology (RSB), giving you free RSB membership for a year after graduation, boosting your career prospects, and promising high-quality teaching.

* Research-led teaching from experienced microbiologists at the top of their fields, with opportunities to work on their active research projects and even co-author publications.

* The chance to build your professional network and connect with employers within bioscience industries, via field trips, guest speakers, placements and more.

* Opportunities to do summer studentships, which provide you with even more hands-on lab experience and bolster your employability prospects.

* A range of outreach opportunities to take part in, which may include Science In The Park, visits to local schools and presentations at conferences.

* The option to do a placement year — previously, students have worked for NHS clinical laboratories, research companies and drinks manufacturers.