The Microbiology program provides core lectures and hands-on laboratory experiences to introduce students to the form, function, genetics, and evolution of diverse microorganisms, with an emphasis on bacteria and viruses.
You learn how diverse microbes positively and negatively impact our health, society, and the environment. You use the scientific process to interpret, evaluate, and communicate biological information, as well as to identify and address open questions in microbiology. You are encouraged to pursue independent research projects under the mentorship of research faculty.
We offer courses in microbial ecology, microbial genetics, medical microbiology, cellular biology, virology, and molecular biology. The two routes to a microbiology degree differ in the amount of chemistry and math required, giving you a chance to determine whether you prefer the B.A. or B.S. option.
You can supplement your degree with minors or certificates in areas such as business, environmental science, animal behavior, and psychology. Outstanding students are encouraged to fulfill the requirements for an honors degree.
Is Microbiology right for you?
If you are interested in ecology, genetics, cellular, or molecular biology, you might want to explore one of the two degrees available in the field of Microbiology. Microbiologists study the way that microscopic organisms—bacteria, viruses, and fungi—function, evolve, and cause disease.
The Department of Biology offers the Bachelor of Arts in Microbiology (B.A.) and the Bachelor of Science in Microbiology (B.S.). The degree options begin similarly, making it easy to adjust your path as your interests develop.
What options are available?
Microbiology B.S. Majors Guide
Microbiology B.S. Degree Map
The Microbiology B.S. includes significant coursework in inorganic and organic chemistry, physics and math, which helps prepare students for graduate and professional programs. Many Microbiology B.S. majors participate in independent research with faculty members.
The Microbiology B.S. attracts students from a variety of backgrounds and interests. They typically possess some of the following qualities:
- Aptitude for quantitative and scientific reasoning
- Curiosity about the basic structure, function, growth, and evolution of bacteria, fungi, and viruses
- Aspire to contribute to scientific research
- Desire to work as a doctor, dentist, or other health professional
- Appreciation of the natural world
- Intellectual curiosity and imagination
- Interest in thinking critically and ethically about biological research and its societal impact
Microbiology B.A. Majors Guide
Microbiology B.A. Degree Map
The Microbiology B.A. is one of the more flexible degrees offered by the biology department. It provides students with training in the major subject areas of microbiology, while giving them the chance to explore other academic disciplines.
The Microbiology B.A. has minimal chemistry and math requirements, allowing students to double major or purse additional minors. The Microbiology B.A. does not automatically fulfill most of the requirements for entrance to medical, dental, or optometry schools or to most graduate programs in microbiology.
If you wish to establish a rigorous background in the sciences that will prepare you for graduate or professional school in microbiology for science-related jobs, the Microbiology B.A. degree may be a good choice for you.
The Microbiology B.A. attracts students from a variety of backgrounds and interests. They typically possess some of the following qualities:
- Interest in the basic structure, function, growth, and evolution of bacteria, fungi, and viruses
- Enjoy diverse interests and aspire to explore multiple academic disciplines
- Desire to think critically and ethically about biological research and its societal impact
- Appreciation of the natural world
- Intellectual curiosity and imagination
- Aptitude for quantitative and scientific reasoning