Enter OTP
At Leeds, the Microbiology MBiol invites you to explore the hidden world of bacteria, viruses, and fungi—and how they shape human health, ecosystems, and industries worldwide. This integrated Master’s degree blends hands-on lab work with the latest biomedical discoveries, and offers you the chance to extend into a fourth year packed with advanced research and specialist training.
Curriculum Structure
Year 1
Your journey starts with a strong foundation across microbiology, genetics, biochemistry, cell biology, and immunology. Through modules like Introductory Skills in Microbiology, Introduction to Genetics, and Introduction to Immunology, you’ll develop both theoretical knowledge and essential lab techniques—PCR, bacterial culture, sequencing, and microscopy—while building confidence in experimental design and analysis.
Year 2
In your second year, the focus shifts to more specialist microbiology topics. Core modules such as Medical Microbiology, Omics and Big Data Biology, and Intermediate Skills in Microbiology strengthen your expertise in areas like bioinformatics, sequencing, and disease mechanisms. You’ll also get the chance to broaden your experience through a year in industry, a study abroad year, or a combined study and placement abroad.
Year 3
By your third year, you’ll be ready to take on advanced challenges. Modules like Advanced Topics in Microbiology, Advanced Skills for Microbiologists, and Research Tools and Applications bring you face-to-face with high-level microbiological research. You’ll also prepare for your own extended research project—working with techniques such as structural biology, imaging, and molecular analysis.
Year 4 (MBiol)
If you choose to progress into the integrated Master’s year, you’ll take on an independent Extended Research Project within Leeds’ world-class laboratories. Guided by active researchers, you’ll use cutting-edge methods to contribute to real, impactful scientific work—perfect preparation for a career in research or further postgraduate study.
Focus areas: microbial pathogens, biomedical microbiology, diagnostic virology, omics data analysis, advanced microbial research
Learning outcomes: advanced lab skills, critical data analysis, independent research design, and confident scientific communication
Professional alignment: accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, highlighting the programme’s academic quality and professional relevance
Reputation: with 100% graduate prospects and student satisfaction, Leeds offers exceptional outcomes and global opportunities through placements, research-led teaching, and state-of-the-art facilities
With this programme, you won’t just study microbiology—you’ll live it. From the very first semester, you’ll be in the lab, learning real scientific techniques, using advanced research tools, and shaping your future through placements or study abroad opportunities. All of this happens in a supportive environment, guided by expert staff and powered by world-class facilities.
Here’s what that looks like in practice:
World-class research spaces: The School of Molecular and Cellular Biology is home to state-of-the-art structural biology, imaging, and biophysics labs, backed by around £17 million of recent investment. These resources ensure your learning is rooted in real, research-driven science—especially when you take on final-year projects at the cutting edge.
Modern teaching labs & digital clusters: In your first two years, you’ll train in newly refurbished laboratories and make use of dedicated computer clusters, building both hands-on and computational skills that microbiologists rely on.
Placements and study abroad: After year two, you’ll have the option to spend a year in industry, go abroad for a semester, or even combine the two—giving you valuable professional experience and a global perspective.
Research-led projects: In your final year, you’ll carry out an independent research project, either in a Leeds lab or as part of a wider research team, with close support from expert academics.
Tailored career support: From CV workshops and interview prep to careers fairs and alumni networking, the Student Opportunity Team and Careers Centre make sure you’re ready to step into placements, internships, or graduate roles with confidence.
Graduates from this integrated Master’s in Microbiology go on to exciting roles in science and beyond—think Microbiologist, Clinical Scientist, Biomedical Scientist, or Forensic Scientist. The mix of advanced scientific training, specialist research projects, and practical lab experience means you’ll be ready to make an impact in healthcare, industry, or academia from the moment you graduate.
University Services Supporting Your Career
Right from the start, you’ll get personalised guidance from the Student Opportunity Team and the University’s Careers Centre. Together, they’ll help you prepare your CV, practise for interviews, and find placements that fit your ambitions. You’ll also have access to alumni events and the popular STEM Careers Fair, where employers such as AstraZeneca, GSK, Labcorp, and the NHS regularly connect with Leeds students. With the Leeds for Life initiative, you’ll receive academic and personal development support at every stage of your degree.
Employment Statistics & Graduate Outcomes
This programme is known for outstanding results, with 100% graduate prospects and 100% student satisfaction (NSS 2019). Graduates take a variety of routes after finishing their studies:
Around 70% progress into PhDs, joining cutting-edge research labs.
About 20% move on to MSc programmes in microbiology or related areas.
Around 5% pursue teacher training.
Another 5% enter graduate entry medicine or dentistry, building on their strong bioscience foundation.
University–Industry Partnerships & Recognition
This degree holds Advanced Accreditation from the Royal Society of Biology, a recognition that signals to employers and postgraduate institutions that Leeds graduates are research-ready and highly skilled in their field.
Long-Term Value of Accreditation & Outcomes
With internationally recognised faculty, cutting-edge facilities, and an excellent track record of student success, Leeds microbiology graduates are sought after in laboratories, healthcare organisations, and research institutes. Many continue into PhDs or MScs, while others move straight into professional training schemes such as the Clinical Scientist pathway.
Further Academic Progression:
If you’re passionate about pushing your studies further, the MBiol gives you the perfect springboard. You’ll be well-prepared for PhDs, specialist MScs, or professional training in medicine, dentistry, or clinical sciences—all supported by the strong research culture and world-leading resources at Leeds.
A-level offer: AAA including Biology, with another science subject preferred.IB : BSc Entry: 31 points overall, with HL grades of 6, 6, 5, including Biology (or Chemistry) and another science or science-related subject.Indian Standard 12/HSC: Minimum of 85% required for entry consideration.for India : You will need standard XII English at 70% or 75% depending on state board, or IELTS 6.0 overall, GCSE English C or 4 or an equivalentfor USA : High School Diploma 3.0 GPA with two Honors Classes at A, plus one AP at 5for USA : High School Diploma 3.0 GPA with two Honors Classes at A and B, plus one AP at 4.for USA : SAT - 1290 (650 in Evidence-Based Reading and Writing and 620 in Maths) , ACT - 26for USA : Advanced Placement (AP) tests: require at least one AP at grade 4 or 5 in subject-specific areas. APs can also substitute for Honors classes in certain cases.for USA : Associate Degrees: A 2-year Associate Degree with GPA ≥ 3.0 may be considered on a case-by-case basis.MicrobiologistBiomedical ScientistClinical ScientistResearch ScientistForensic ScientistPharmaceutical ResearcherFood Safety SpecialistEnvironmental MicrobiologistPublic Health AnalystBiotech Industry Specialist
Embark on your educational journey with confidence! Our team of admission experts is here to guide you through the process. Book a free session now to receive personalized advice, assistance with applications, and insights into your dream school. Whether you're applying to college, graduate school, or specialized programs, we're here to help you succeed.
University of Leeds
