Microbiology

Microbiology is the branch of biology concerned with microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and algae, and the extraordinary range of roles these organisms play in nature, medicine, food production and biotechnology. Microbes are the most abundant and diverse forms of life on earth, and their study has underpinned some of the most important advances in medicine and science, from the development of antibiotics and vaccines to our understanding of infectious disease and the genetic code. Microbiology is at the front line of responses to emerging infectious diseases and has enormous relevance to public health, environmental science and industrial biotechnology.

At the University of Surrey, this three-year programme gives you a thorough grounding in the science of microorganisms and their interactions with human health, the environment and industry. You will develop laboratory skills alongside a deep theoretical understanding of microbial biology, genetics, immunology, infection and the mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance. The curriculum is designed to equip you with digital skills and scientific confidence that are valued in contemporary research and industry environments, and Surrey's active research base means you will study in a context where microbiology is being investigated at the frontier of the discipline.

Microbiology graduates work in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, in clinical and diagnostic laboratories, in public health and government agencies, in food and environmental microbiology, and in academic and government research. Roles include research scientist, clinical microbiologist, quality control analyst, bioprocess developer and public health microbiologist. Many graduates pursue postgraduate study in microbiology, infectious disease, immunology or biotechnology, which is often essential for careers in research or senior scientific roles.

The combination of deep biological knowledge and laboratory competence makes microbiology graduates valuable across the life sciences sector.