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If you’re fascinated by the microscopic world and curious about how microbes affect health, disease, and the environment, this program is for you. At Leicester, the BSc in Biological Sciences (Microbiology) gives you hands-on experience studying microorganisms while exploring their real-world applications in medicine, biotechnology, and environmental science.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1: Building Your Foundation
In your first year, you’ll get a solid grounding in the core principles of biology and microbiology. You’ll study The Molecules of Life, learning the basics of biochemistry and molecular biology; The Cell, exploring microbiology and cell biology; and From Individuals to Populations, where you’ll get introduced to genetics. This foundation prepares you for more specialized topics in later years.
Year 2: Diving Deeper
Year 2 is all about specialization. You’ll explore Medical Microbiology, understanding how microbes cause disease; Microbial Biotechnology, learning how microorganisms are used in industry; and Immunology, discovering how the immune system defends the body. You’ll also have the chance to choose optional modules that align with your interests, helping shape your path in microbiology.
Year 3: Research and Real-World Application
In your final year, it’s all about applying what you’ve learned. You’ll take on Advanced Microbial Pathogenesis, studying how microbes cause disease; Environmental Microbiology, examining the role of microbes in ecosystems; and Clinical Microbiology, learning lab techniques to diagnose infections. You’ll also complete a research project, giving you valuable hands-on experience and a taste of real scientific investigation.
Focus Areas : Microbial Pathogenesis, Medical Microbiology, Biotechnology, Immunology, Environmental Microbiology
Learning Outcomes : By the end of the degree, you’ll be confident in microbiology lab techniques, data analysis, problem-solving, and applying your knowledge to real-world challenges.
Professional Alignment : This program aligns with industry standards and prepares you for careers in healthcare, research, biotechnology, and environmental science.
Reputation : Leicester is known for its world-class biological sciences research and strong graduate employability, giving you a degree that opens doors in both industry and academia.
At Leicester, learning goes far beyond lectures. In the BSc Biological Sciences (Microbiology), you’ll get hands-on experience that brings the science to life — from working in cutting-edge labs to tackling real research projects, field trips, and industry placements that prepare you for a future career.
Here’s what your learning journey could look like:
Modern Laboratories: Work in purpose-built labs with the latest equipment for microbiology research and analysis.
Research Projects: Dive into independent research, honing your critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Field Trips: Get out into the field to see microbes in action and understand their role in different environments.
Industry Placements: Gain real-world experience by working with companies and organizations, boosting your employability.
Collaborative Projects: Team up with classmates on projects that develop teamwork and communication skills.
Specialized Software: Learn to use digital tools for microbiology data analysis and research.
Supportive Learning Environment: Access resources, guidance, and mentoring to help you succeed in both academics and career planning.
These experiences are designed to give you the confidence and practical skills needed to thrive in microbiology, whether you move into research, healthcare, or industry after graduation.
A degree in Biological Sciences (Microbiology) from Leicester opens up a wide range of exciting career paths. Graduates often move into roles such as:
Clinical Microbiologist – researching and diagnosing infectious diseases.
Biotechnologist – developing new products using microorganisms.
Environmental Microbiologist – studying microbial processes in natural ecosystems.
Pharmaceutical Researcher – contributing to the development of new medicines.
Leicester also supports you every step of the way with services and opportunities designed to help you succeed:
Careers and Employability Service: Guidance on CVs, interviews, and job applications tailored for science graduates.
Industry Placements: Gain hands-on experience with companies and research organizations.
Research Projects: Opportunities to work on real-world scientific research, building practical skills.
University–Industry Connections: Collaborations with leading organizations, helping you network and explore career options.
Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, adding long-term value and professional recognition to your degree.
Graduate Outcomes: Around 97% of graduates are employed or pursuing further study within six months of finishing their degree.
Further Academic Progression:
After your BSc, you can continue your studies with a Master’s in Microbiology, Immunology, or Biotechnology. For those interested in research, the degree also provides a strong foundation for pursuing a PhD in microbiology or related fields.
A-levels: ABB, including at least two relevant science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology. We may consider two AS-levels in place of one A-level. General Studies not accepted.GCSE: At least Grade 4/C in both English Language and Maths (if not held at A2/AS-level).IB : 30 points to include grade 6 and 5 in at least two relevant HL science subjects from Biology, Chemistry, Maths, Physics or Psychology.IELTS 6.5 or equivalent , TOEFL iBT : 90for India : standard XII awarded by the CISCE/CBSE , State Board - 75%for USA : SAT (Math, Critical Reading and Writing) with a minimum score of 550 in each and three Advanced Placement examsfor USA : Applicants must have at least a grade C average on their High School Diploma to be considered for undergraduate admission.for USA : APs - The required grades are usually 4 or 5 on each AP examMicrobiologistClinical Laboratory ScientistBiotechnologistBiomedical ScientistPharmaceutical ResearcherInfection Control SpecialistEnvironmental MicrobiologistFood Safety ScientistQuality Control AnalystResearch Scientist
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University of Leicester
