The BSc (Hons) Microbiology at Glasgow Caledonian University offers students a comprehensive understanding of the microscopic world and its critical role in health, environment, and industry. This innovative programme is designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to excel in various microbiology-related careers. Throughout the course, students will explore the structure, function, and ecology of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. They will learn about microbial genetics, immunology, and the principles of microbial control and sterilization, which are essential for careers in healthcare, research, and food safety. The programme emphasizes hands-on laboratory experience, allowing students to develop essential skills in microbial cultivation, identification, and analysis. Additionally, students will gain valuable insights into applied microbiology, such as biotechnological applications, fermentation processes, and the role of microbes in environmental sustainability. The course also covers current issues like antimicrobial resistance, emerging infectious diseases, and biotechnology advances, preparing students to address future challenges in microbiology. With a focus on employability, the programme includes opportunities for industrial placements, enabling students to gain real-world experience and establish professional networks. Graduates will be well-equipped for careers in healthcare laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, food and beverage industries, environmental consultancy, and research institutions. The programme is led by experienced academics and industry experts dedicated to fostering innovation and critical thinking. Upon completion, students will have the academic qualifications, practical skills, and industry awareness to pursue further study or enter the microbiology workforce confidently.
Detailed Course Facts
Application deadline As soon as possible Tuition feeContact us
Not specified Start date September 2015 Duration full-time 48 months Languages Take an IELTS test- English
Course Content
Year 1: Foundation modules for Human Biology.
Year 2: Intermediate modules in Physiology, Microbiology and Biochemistry.
Year 3: Specialised modules in Microbiology.
Year 4: Students undertake a workshop in Molecular Biology and also a research project in Microbiology, as well as four specialised modules.
Work Placement
There is an option in Year 3 to complete a work-based placement.Assessment Methods
The abilities of our students are developed throughout the programme from first year onwards; initially students are introduced to a whole range of skills, including computer competence, laboratory and Assessment MethodsAssessment methods are designed to produce graduates with a balanced knowledge and understanding of all branches of the subject and to allow our students to become enquiring, independent learners exhibiting high levels of professionalism.
Half of our assessment is practically based, providing hands-on laboratory skills and experience of data handling and presentation which not only makes our programme distinctive but also attractive to employers seeking to find graduates with the necessary skills and competencies.
Teaching Methods
We adopt a wide range of learning and teaching methods to ensure not only that our students will gain the necessary knowledge and understanding of microbiology but also develop their intellectual and personal skills.Our programmes take a flexible approach, combining larger scale interactive lectures with small group sessions examining case studies and honing data analysis and presentation skills. Laboratory based practical classes are central to our teaching, allowing our students to gain exposure to the rigour and demands of scientific investigation.
Our Level 2 students have the opportunity to study abroad for a semester in our international exchange programme at the University of Massachusetts in Boston.
Our students focus on developing core laboratory skills as the basis of practical work in their initial two years, leading to more advanced practical laboratory skills training by Level 3.
In their final year, our students undertake a specialist molecular biology workshop in addition to an individual lab based project. All of our laboratory work takes place in our recently refurbished suite of teaching and research laboratories.
This programme of study will furnish our students with the graduate attributes that will enhance their employment prospects, such as critical thinking and analytical capacities, self-confidence, creativity, project management and presentation skills. These attributes go beyond the professional knowledge and skills providing our graduates with a wide range of expertise, leading to a broad range of career options.
English Language Requirements
IELTS band : 6 CAE score : 60(Grade C)
To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to
take an IELTS test. More About IELTSRequirements
- Higher: BBBC
- A-Level: BCC
- ILC: BBC/BCCC at Higher grade
- Essential Subjects: Higher Chemistry and Maths (S) - Credit/Int 2 minimum
- Recommended Subjects: Biology (or Human Biology), English, Mathematics at Higher Grade.
- Additional Requirements: Applicants are invited for interview to one of our Biorama evenings (applicants living further than a 50 mile radius from the university can make alternative arrangements). Visit our website for more details.
In addition to meeting the qualification requirements, international students where English is not the first language require an IELTS score of 6.0 with no element below 5.5.
Work Experience
No work experience is required.
Related Scholarships*
- Academic Excellence Scholarship
"The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."
- Access Bursary
Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.
- Alumni Bursary
Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students
* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than Glasgow Caledonian University.
The BSc (Hons) Microbiology at Glasgow Caledonian University offers students an in-depth understanding of the fundamental principles and practices of microbiology, including the study of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. The programme is designed to equip students with both theoretical knowledge and practical skills necessary for careers in healthcare, research, industry, and environmental sectors. Throughout the course, students engage with core subjects like microbial physiology, genetics, immunology, and pathogenic microbiology, alongside specialized modules focusing on areas such as food microbiology, environmental microbiology, and biotechnology.
The programme emphasizes laboratory work and hands-on experience, enabling students to develop critical skills in microbial culturing, identification techniques, molecular biology methods, and safety protocols. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and established partnerships with industry and research institutions, which enhance employability and provide opportunities for internships and applied projects. The course also covers aspects of research methodology and data analysis, preparing students for postgraduate study or roles in research and development.
In addition, the programme encourages a strong awareness of ethical considerations in microbiology, as well as the importance of microbiology in addressing global health challenges, such as antimicrobial resistance and emerging infectious diseases. Students are supported by dedicated academic staff with expertise in various microbiological fields, and they have access to career guidance services aimed at facilitating smooth transition into professional roles.
Graduates of the BSc Microbiology programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in clinical laboratories, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology companies, environmental consultancy, food safety, and public health sectors. The degree also provides a solid foundation for further academic study, including MSc and PhD research opportunities. Overall, the programme aims to produce competent microbiologists capable of contributing to scientific advancement and societal well-being through innovative and ethical practices in microbiology.
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