Microbiology

Overview of the Microbiology Degree Programme at Queen's University Belfast

The Microbiology degree programme at Queen's University Belfast offers students an in-depth understanding of the microbial world and its significant impact on health, industry, and the environment. Designed to provide both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, this course prepares graduates for careers in research, healthcare, biotechnology, and environmental science. Throughout the programme, students explore the fundamental principles of microbiology, including microbial biology, genetics, pathogenesis, immunology, and applied microbiology techniques.

Students will engage in a comprehensive curriculum that covers the structure and function of microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa. They will learn about the role of microbes in disease processes, as well as their beneficial applications in industries like pharmaceuticals, agriculture, and food production. The programme emphasizes the development of laboratory skills through extensive practical sessions, enabling students to perform microbial culturing, identification, and characterization methods, alongside modern molecular techniques like PCR and sequencing.

Research-led teaching ensures that students are exposed to the latest advances in microbiology, fostering critical thinking and innovation. The course also includes opportunities for work placements, allowing students to gain valuable real-world experience and make industry contacts. Graduates of this programme will be well-equipped to pursue careers in biomedical research, clinical microbiology, biotechnology companies, environmental microbiology, and public health sectors.

Queen's University Belfast's state-of-the-art laboratories and dedicated faculty provide an excellent learning environment that combines theoretical lectures with practical application. Furthermore, the programme encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, integrating concepts from biochemistry, molecular biology, and biophysics, offering a rounded scientific education. Through this comprehensive approach, students develop analytical and problem-solving skills that are essential for tackling challenges related to infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance, and microbial ecology.

Graduates of the Microbiology degree will be positioned to contribute to scientific advancements that improve quality of life and promote sustainable practices across multiple sectors. Whether students choose to proceed to postgraduate research, professional healthcare training, or enter industry, the programme offers a strong foundation for a successful career in microbiology and related fields.

Detailed Course Facts

• EUR 4160 Year (EEA)
• EUR 13380 Year (Non-EEA)

England, Scotland and Wales £9,000; EU £3,575; International: £11,500

• English

Course Content

The syllabus offers a unique opportunity for students to choose to study the fundamental science underpinning the subject and also to develop applied aspects in biomedical science, biotechnology and the environment.

Stage 1

Biochemistry
Genetics and Molecular Biology
Introductory Skills for Biosciences
Micro-organisms
plus two further modules out of Chemistry, Environmental Biology and Biological Diversity

All are relevant in developing a sound basis for further studies in Microbiology.

Stage 2

The science behind the roles of viruses and bacteria in the diseases of animals and plants and the ecological, environmental and industrial aspects of microbiology is studied. Required modules are:

Environmental and Applied Microbiology
Genetic Systems
Microbial Metabolism and Physiology
Molecular Genetics
Virology
and one other module, for example Cell Biology, Biochemical Methods or an optional Work Placement

Stage 3

During the final year, students in Microbiology take a two-module research project carried out under the supervision of one or more members of the academic staff, and choose four modules from:

Genetic Manipulation and Bacterial Genetics
Infections
Microbial and Environmental Biotechnology
Parasitology
The Immune System
Virology

English Language Requirements

IELTS band : 6.5

To study at this university, you have to speak English. We advice you to

Requirements

• A-level BBB including Biology and Chemistry + GCSE Mathematics.
  Note: AS Chemistry grade C would be acceptable in lieu of A-level Chemistry.
• Irish Leaving Certificate B2B2B2B2CC/B2B2B2B2B2 including Higher Level grade B2 in Biology and Chemistry + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade C in Mathematics.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

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 Queen's University Belfast.

Accreditation

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 adhere to the core curriculum in Microbiology as described by the American Society of Microbiology. The combination of modules provided in part fulfils many of the requirements for accreditation by the Institute of Biomedical Sciences in the UK. Accreditation may be achieved through some additional postgraduate training.