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The BSc Microbiology at the University of Reading gives you an in-depth look at the fascinating world of microorganisms and their impact on health, food, and the environment. It’s perfect for students who are curious about microbes and want to explore how they can be applied to tackle real-world challenges.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: In your first year, you’ll build a strong foundation in microbiology. Core modules like Fundamentals of Microbiology and Cell Biology introduce you to the biology of bacteria, fungi, viruses, and eukaryotic cells. Alongside theory, you’ll get hands-on experience in labs, learning essential techniques in microbial genetics and biochemistry.
Year 2: The second year allows you to dive deeper into microbial life. Modules such as Microbial Genetics, Microbial Biochemistry, and Medical Microbiology explore how microbes function, interact with their environments, and cause disease. You’ll also develop practical skills in identifying and controlling pathogens, preparing you for careers in healthcare, research, or industry.
Year 3: Your final year focuses on independent research and applying what you’ve learned. You’ll complete a substantial research project, investigating an area of microbiology that interests you most. Optional modules like Environmental Microbiology, Food Microbiology, or Advanced Medical Microbiology let you specialise and tailor your studies to your future career goals.
Focus Areas:
Medical Microbiology, Environmental Microbiology, Food Microbiology, Microbial Genetics, Microbial Biochemistry
Learning Outcomes:
Understand the diversity, physiology, and ecology of microorganisms
Gain practical lab skills in microbiology
Analyse scientific data critically and independently
Communicate microbiological concepts effectively
Conduct independent research through a substantial project
Professional Alignment:
Graduates can join the Royal Society of Biology and apply for Chartered Biologist status, giving your career a strong professional edge.
Reputation:
The School of Biological Sciences at Reading is highly regarded, with 92.3% of students reporting that teaching staff are good at explaining things (National Student Survey 2025).
At the University of Reading, the BSc Microbiology program gives you plenty of hands-on opportunities to apply what you learn in the classroom. From lab experiments and research projects to field trips and professional placements, you’ll gain the practical skills that employers and graduate programs value. The combination of modern facilities, real-world experience, and supportive teaching makes learning engaging and career-focused:
State-of-the-Art Laboratories – Work in purpose-built microbiology labs with modern equipment, giving you practical experience in experimental techniques.
Research Projects – Get involved in cutting-edge research on topics such as antimicrobial resistance and emerging infectious diseases.
Field Trips – Participate in excursions that connect classroom knowledge with real-world microbiology applications.
Professional Experience – Opt for the Professional Experience pathway to spend a year in an industry placement, gaining valuable insight into the microbiology sector.
Supportive Learning Environment – Benefit from a mix of lectures, small group seminars, and practical lessons that reinforce your learning and help you develop teamwork and problem-solving skills.
These opportunities are designed to ensure you graduate with strong practical skills, confidence in the lab, and real-world experience in microbiology.
Graduates of the BSc Microbiology at the University of Reading are ready to step into a wide range of exciting careers. Typical roles include clinical microbiologist, environmental microbiologist, industrial microbiologist, or research scientist. With strong practical experience and industry connections, you’ll be well-prepared to launch your career or continue your studies:
Career Support Services: The University of Reading’s Careers, Placement and Experience team helps with CVs, interview preparation, networking, and finding placements or graduate jobs.
Employment Stats: Around 90% of graduates from the School of Biological Sciences are in work or further study within 15 months of graduation.
Industry Connections: The program has strong links with organisations and research institutions, providing opportunities for placements, collaborations, and hands-on projects.
Professional Accreditation: Graduates can join the Royal Society of Biology and apply for Chartered Biologist status, giving your career a professional boost.
Graduate Outcomes: Emphasis on practical lab skills, research experience, and problem-solving ensures you’re ready for both employment and further academic study.
Further Academic Progression:
After finishing your degree, you could continue with MSc programs in microbiology or related areas, or pursue PhD research, opening doors to advanced scientific careers, teaching, or highly specialised roles in healthcare, biotech, and environmental sectors.
A Levels : ABB with B in Biology, or BBB with B in Biology and B in a second science subject.IB : 32 points including 5 in Biology at higher level.IELTS 6.5, with no component below 5.5 , TOEFL (iBT) - 88for India : Class XII from CBSE or ICSE boards with average marks between 70% and 83%.BTEC Extended Diploma - DDD (modules taken must be comparable to subject specific requirement)for USA : High School Diploma with a minimum GPA of 3.0 and grades ranging from 444 - 554 in three Advanced placement testsfor USA : SAT - 630 - 680 in three SAT Subjects Tests , ACT - 27-29 from a single exam sitting in ACTfor USA : consider SAT General results in lieu of one AP or SAT Subject tests on a case-by-case basisBiotechnologistMicrobiologistBiomedical ScientistPharmaceutical ResearcherClinical MicrobiologistFood MicrobiologistIndustrial MicrobiologistQuality Control ScientistEnvironmental MicrobiologistPublic Health Microbiologist
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University of Reading
