Queen's University of Belfast - Medical Faculty
BSc in Microbiology with Professional Studies
Belfast, United Kingdom
BSc
DURATION
4 years
LANGUAGES
English
PACE
Full time
APPLICATION DEADLINE
EARLIEST START DATE
TUITION FEES
GBP 25,300 *
STUDY FORMAT
On-Campus
* EU and international student
Key Summary
Microbiology is the study of bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses, and is of immense importance in 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 With Professional Studies Highlights
- Professional Accreditations
- Global Opportunities
- Industry Links
- World Class Facilities
- Student Experience
- Further Study Opportunities
Each year, we offer a range of scholarships and prizes for new students.
We offer prestigious, competitive scholarships of up to 50% off tuition fees to new international students. You must have an offer to study a full-time course with us in 2024 to apply for a scholarship.
Year 1
- Molecular Basis of Life (20 credits)
- World of Microorganisms (20 credits)
- Fundamentals of Microbiology (20 credits)
- Genetics and the Molecular Toolbox (20 credits)
Year 2
- Cell Biology (20 credits)
- Microbial Metabolism and Biocatalysis (20 credits)
- Microorganisms in Action (20 credits)
- Molecular Genetics and Bioinformatics 1 (20 credits)
- Diagnostic Microbiology (20 credits)
- Molecular Genetics and Bioinformatics II (20 credits)
Year 3
- Professional Studies (120 credits)
Year 4
- Medical Microbiology (20 credits)
- Parasitology (20 credits)
- Research Project (40 credits)
- Microbiome: Biotechnological applications and ‘Omic manipulations (20 credits)
- Zoonoses (20 credits)
Year Out (Professional Studies)
All students will spend a minimum of 46 weeks in a work placement during which they will carry out some project-type work. Students will begin preparations for the placement in the first semester of Stage 2 and the placement will be assessed within the module Professional Studies.
Assessment
How you are assessed will vary according to the Learning outcomes of each module. Details of how each module is assessed are shown in the Student Handbook which is provided to all students during their first year induction.
- Some modules are assessed solely through project work or written assignments
- Others are assessed through a combination of coursework and end-of-semester examinations.
Microbiology is an interdisciplinary subject with key links to the other Biological Sciences, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Environmental Engineering, and Medicine.
Graduates are qualified to take up both scientific and non-scientific careers.
Many job opportunities are available in biomedical, industrial, and government organizations, and in universities and colleges of higher education.
These jobs cover innovative research, the development of new products, advisory, and consultancy work or teaching. All are aimed at improving the health, environment, and economy of countries in both the developed and developing world. In particular, companies and organizations concerned with animal and plant health, food and beverage processing, water quality, environmental management, pharmaceutical products, and biotechnology require graduates in microbiology.
Job opportunities exist across several areas including:
Healthcare: Microbiologists are essential in the fight against infectious diseases working in hospitals and Health Protection Laboratories. Here they diagnose infections, monitor treatments, develop vaccines, provide advice, or track disease outbreaks.
Basic research: To either solve the problems caused by microorganisms or exploit their capabilities fundamental research on their biochemistry and genetics is required. Many microbiologists work in universities and research institutes exploring the detailed workings of microbial cells.
Environment: One of the greatest challenges currently facing society is that of climate change and environmental protection. Microbiologists are key players in the development of waste treatment technologies, recycling processes, pollution warning systems, and the production of green energy.
Agriculture: Pest management is an essential component of modern agricultural practice. Microbiologists have key roles to play in the development of pest control systems and the diagnosis and treatment of animal pathogens.
Business: Microbiologists work in many bioscience and food companies, carrying out research, developing new products, or carrying out quality control of manufacturing processes to ensure the microbiological safety of goods such as medicines, cosmetics, food, drinks, etc.
Outside the lab: Many trained microbiologists never go on to work in the microbiology field. However, they can use their skills and knowledge to pursue careers in marketing, technical support, regulatory affairs, education, patent attorneys, and public relations, journalism, and publishing.
Prizes and Awards
A level 2 prize is awarded to the best overall student in conjunction with the UK Microbiology Society.
Degree plus award for extra-curricular skills
In addition to your degree programme, at Queen's you can have the opportunity to gain wider life, academic and employability skills. For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports, and lots more. So not only do you graduate with a degree recognized by a world-leading university, but you'll also have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall. We call this Degree Plus. It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special.
Contact Teaching Hours
Personal Study
- 28 (hours maximum)
- For private study and writing assignments each week.
Large Group Teaching
- 12 (hours maximum)
- Typically around 9 hours teaching [3 hours for each subject/module studied – see later information on course content] and 3 hours practical every two weeks for each subject/module.
Learning and Teaching
At Queen’s, we aim to deliver a high-quality learning environment that embeds intellectual curiosity, innovation and best practices in learning. On the BSc in Microbiology with Professional Studies we do this by providing a range of learning experiences which enable our students to engage with subject experts, develop attributes and perspectives that will equip them for life and work in a global society and make use of innovative technologies and a world-class library that enhances their development as independent, lifelong learners.