| Program start date | Application deadline |
| 2025-09-01 | - |
| 2026-01-01 | - |
Program Overview
Programme Overview
The MSc Microbiology program is available to start in January or September. The program is taught through a flexible mix of lectures and small group tutorials, practical classes, practical computer workshops, and research tutorials. There is also an expectation of self-learning, where students will engage with current microbiology research literature to enhance their knowledge gained and discussed in taught sessions.
Programme Structure
The program consists of three stages:
Stage 1
- Compulsory Courses:
- Current Microbiology (MC5009)
- Applied Statistics (PU5017)
- Getting Started at the University of Aberdeen (PD5006)
- Biotechnology (BT5014)
- Bioinformatics (MB5021)
- Optional Courses:
- Molecular Genetics (MB5025)
- Profiles of Immunology (MB5028)
Stage 2
- Compulsory Courses:
- Evaluating and Communicating Research (MB5529)
- Host - Pathogen Interactions (MB5516)
- Advanced Bioinformatics and Genome Sequencing (MB5522)
- Advanced Biotechnology with Computation (BT5511)
- Optional Courses:
- Biologic Drug Discovery (BT5509)
- Advanced Genomic Tools in Biomedical Research (MB5528)
Stage 3
- Compulsory Courses:
- Masters Research Project (Laboratory) (MB5904)
- Masters Research Project (PU5922)
Programme Fees
- EU/International students: £26,250 (2025/26 Academic Year)
- UK students: £12,200 (2025/26 Academic Year)
- Self-funded international students commencing eligible postgraduate programs in 2025/26 will receive a £8,000 tuition waiver.
Entry Requirements
- A second-class Honours degree (2:2 or above) or equivalent qualification in Microbiology or other biological science degree is required for entry onto this program.
- English Language Requirements:
- IELTS Academic: 6.5 (with 5.5 in Listening, 6.0 in Reading, 5.5 in Speaking, and 6.0 in Writing)
- TOEFL iBT: 90 (with 17 in Listening, 21 in Reading, 20 in Speaking, and 21 in Writing)
- PTE Academic: 62 (with 59 in Listening, 59 in Reading, 59 in Speaking, and 59 in Writing)
- Cambridge English B2 First, C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency: 176 (with 162 in Listening, 169 in Reading, 162 in Speaking, and 169 in Writing)
Careers
The MSc Microbiology program will provide students with the academic, analytical, and practical skills to assist them in many careers. Many graduates choose to continue in research careers and begin PhDs or become research scientists (research assistants or technicians). Scientists have obtained posts in universities, industry (including oil and gas), biotechnology, and hospital diagnostic and pathology laboratories.
Facilities
The Institute of Medical Sciences is focused on developing future effective therapies and houses nearly 400 researchers and support staff working on cutting-edge biomedical subjects aimed at understanding the human body's response to infection and disease. The Foresterhill Health Campus is one of the largest clinical complexes in Europe, which includes the Medical School, large teaching hospital, the Institute of Medical Sciences, and the Rowett Institute.
Contact
For more information, please contact the University of Aberdeen's Student Recruitment & Admissions team.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
Overview
The MSc in Microbiology program at the University of Aberdeen is designed to equip students with advanced knowledge and practical skills in microbiology, enhancing their academic understanding of the field's latest advancements and strengthening their career prospects.
Objectives
The program aims to:
- Provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the general principles of microbiology.
- Equip students with the ability to apply their knowledge in various academic and health contexts.
- Improve students' employability and career prospects by filling skills gaps and furthering their hands-on microbiology research experience.
Program Description
This program is ideal for students and scientists aiming to:
- Improve their career prospects.
- Fill skills gaps in their knowledge.
- Further their hands-on microbiology research experience. The program is available for intake in September and January.
Outline:
Content
The MSc in Microbiology curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:
- Current Microbiology
- Applied Statistics
- Bioinformatics
- Regulation of microbial adaptation
- Host-pathogen interactions in infection and disease The program is divided into three stages:
- Stage 1: Students complete four compulsory courses and choose one or both of the following: MB5021 Bioinformatics or BT5014 Biotechnology.
- Stage 2: Students complete two compulsory courses and choose one or both of the following: MB5522 Advanced Bioinformatics and Genome Sequencing or BT5511 Advanced Biotechnology with Computation.
- Stage 3: Students complete one research project.
Structure
The program consists of a combination of lectures, small group tutorials, practical classes, computer workshops, research tutorials, and self-directed learning.
Course Schedule
The specific course schedule varies depending on the intake month and student choices.
#Current Microbiology (MC5009)
This course provides students with a strong foundation in microbiology, covering topics such as microbes associated with health and disease, laboratory techniques for microbial culture, identification, and characterization, and in-depth analysis of primary research literature.
#Applied Statistics (PU5017)
This course focuses on applying statistical techniques to postgraduate research in health contexts, emphasizing interpreting statistical analysis results correctly. The course utilizes IBM SPSS software to implement various statistical methods. This online course helps students transition to university life, covering topics such as orientation, equality and diversity, health and safety, cyber security, and making the most of university resources for career development.
#Biotechnology (BT5014)
This course explores the process of using microbial and mammalian host cells as factories to produce high quantities of protein pharmaceuticals, like insulin. Students gain a thorough understanding of modern molecular genetics research approaches and their applications in gene editing and gene therapies.
#Profiles of Immunology (MB5028)
This course provides students with a fundamental understanding of the immune system, including the innate and adaptive immune responses. It explores how the immune system plays a crucial role in various disease scenarios.
#Research Tutorials (MB5518)
This course aims to develop students' understanding of hypothesis-led research and provides opportunities to study advanced science concepts and critical evaluation of research led by experienced academic staff.
#Host-Pathogen Interactions (MB5516)
This course explores the complex relationship between hosts and pathogens from bacterial, fungal, parasitic, viral, and host perspectives. Students learn about virulence factors, host defenses, and immune responses. They also gain in-depth knowledge of one specific host-pathogen interaction through self-directed study and group work, enhancing their teamwork and academic writing skills by creating a group-written review article. The course also includes workshops on experimental design for analyzing host-pathogen interactions, virulence, and evaluating novel drug treatments.
#Advanced Bioinformatics and Genome Sequencing (MB5522)
This course brings students up to date with bioinformatics, genome assembly, and annotation technology. Students analyze the genome of an unknown bacterium from the environment, assembling and functionally annotating it under the guidance of expert bioinformaticians. This analysis allows students to identify the species, produce a full inventory of genes and their presumptive functions, and explore the bacterium's potential for antibiotic resistance. The course prepares students for future careers in bioinformatics-related fields.
#Advanced Biotechnology with Computation (BT5511)
This course explores how synthetic biology, systems biology, and computation are transforming modern biotechnology. Students learn advanced genetic engineering techniques for host cell design and optimization using modern modeling techniques. Through hands-on workshops, students learn how advanced genetic engineering of host expression systems can transform the production of pharmaceuticals, chemical feedstocks, and biofuels. Additionally, students gain programming skills relevant to genomic analysis and modern biotechnology.
#Masters Research Project (Laboratory) (MB5904)
This course offers students the opportunity to complete a substantial research project in a laboratory setting under the supervision of an experienced researcher. Students identify a suitable topic area, design a study, and implement the research project. They are involved in defining the research question, developing the research plan, and obtaining necessary approvals.
#Masters Research Project (PU5922)
This course offers students the opportunity to complete a substantial research project outside a laboratory setting under the supervision of an experienced researcher. Students identify a suitable topic area, design a study, and implement the research project. They are involved in defining the research question, developing the research plan, and obtaining necessary approvals.
Assessment:
Assessment Methods
Taught courses are assessed through various methods, including written assignments, reports, and examinations. The research project is assessed through an oral presentation, a thesis, and potentially an oral examination with the external examiner. Students must pass all courses at an appropriate standard to receive the MSc degree.
Assessment Criteria
The specific assessment criteria vary depending on the course and assessment method. However, the program generally assesses students on their:
- Knowledge and understanding of the subject matter
- Ability to apply their knowledge and skills to solve problems
- Critical thinking and analytical skills
- Communication and presentation skills
- Research skills and ability to conduct independent research
Teaching:
Teaching Methods
The program uses a variety of teaching methods, including:
- Lectures
- Small group tutorials
- Practical classes
- Computer workshops
- Research tutorials
- Self-directed learning The program also includes an extended research project, providing students with hands-on experience in conducting research under the guidance of experienced supervisors.
Faculty
The program is delivered by an experienced, multidisciplinary team of internationally renowned experts in microbiology. The faculty members have extensive research experience and are actively involved in cutting-edge research projects.
Unique Teaching Approaches
The program emphasizes interactive and student-centered learning, encouraging students to actively participate in discussions, ask questions, and engage with the material. The program also provides students with opportunities to develop their research skills through the research project and other activities.
Careers:
Career Paths
Graduates of the MSc in Microbiology program can pursue various careers in different sectors, including:
- Research
- Academia
- Industry
- Biotechnology
- Hospital diagnostic and pathology laboratories
- Education
- Scientific publishing
- Patent offices
- Science outreach
Career Opportunities
The program provides graduates with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in various roles, such as:
- Research scientist
- Research assistant
- Technician
- University professor
- College lecturer
- Science writer
- Patent examiner
- Science communicator
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the program have a strong track record of securing employment in various fields. Many graduates continue their education by pursuing PhDs or other research-oriented programs. Others find employment in research positions in academia, industry, or government institutions. Some graduates pursue careers in teaching, science communication, or other related fields.
Other:
- The program is offered on a full-time or part-time basis.
- The program is typically completed in 12 months for full-time students or 24 months for part-time students.
- Students have access to the university's state-of-the-art facilities, including the Foresterhill Health Campus, one of the largest clinical complexes in Europe.
- The program provides students with opportunities to develop their employability skills, such as scientific writing, analytical skills, CV writing, interview skills, and reading scientific literature.
EU / International students: £27,000 UK: £12,200
