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MSci | Undergraduate

Microbiology

Entry year
Academic Year 2026/27
Entry requirements
AAB/AAA
Attendance
4 years (Full-time)
UCAS Code
C502

Applications for 2025 entry are still open for most programmes. View our 2025 courses for more detail

Microbiology is the study of bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses, and is of immense importance in relation to the environment, agriculture and food, biomedical sciences and biotechnology. Graduates in microbiology are therefore highly sought after in these fields. Microbiology is very central to many aspects of the biological sciences, from pure research to diverse industrial, medical and environmental applications.

Microorganisms play major roles in the diseases of man, animals and plants. Microbiologists have been central to their diagnosis and in combating such diseases through the discovery of effective therapies.

Microorganisms also play a central role in the biosphere, through global environmental processes and recycling of elements and waste products.

In biotechnology and synthetic biology, microbes are also crucial in the manufacture of beverages, pharmaceuticals, biofuels and many other useful products.

Microbiology highlights

Professional Accreditations

The degrees follow the National Subject Profile for Higher Education Programmes in Microbiology as published by the Centre for Bioscience (Higher Education Academy). The degrees also broadly align with the core curriculum in Microbiology as described by the American Society for Microbiology. Our degrees are highly regarded – scoring consistently highly in the National Student Survey.

Royal Society of Biology

This course has been accredited bye the Royal Society of Biology. This highlights the academic quality of the course and recognises the course in enabling graduates to meet the needs of the employer through development of technical and transferable skills.

Global Opportunities

Microbiologists are needed in many different fields – from medicine to biotechnology to environmental science. The subject is actually very broadly applicable and can lead to very diverse career paths.

Industry Links

Past students have gained work placement with organisations such as Northern Ireland Water Ltd, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, the Forensic Science Service, the NHS, Norbrook Laboratories, Randox Laboratories, the Almac Group, and Moy Park.

World Class Facilities

Microbiology is linked closely to the Institute for Global Food Security and is primarily taught by associated staff.

Student Experience

Work placements on these programmes provide students with the opportunity to utilise the practical skills gained during the teaching of their degree and apply these in a work environment.

Further Study Opportunities

Further study is also an option open to microbiology graduates. Students can choose from a wide range of Master's programmes as well as a comprehensive list of research topics as shown on the School website.

Student Testimonials

100%of students say teaching staff have supported their learning well.

Data for courses in Microbiology and cell science at Queen's University Belfast

For more official course information visit Discover Uni

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Course location

Biological Sciences

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