Program Overview

Microbiology (with a year in industry) BSc (Hons)

This course comes with the opportunity to complete a 12-month placement in industry complementing Microbiology studies with on-the-job experience.

School of Life Sciences

The School of Life Sciences offers this course, providing students with a comprehensive understanding of Microbiology.

Course Details

• Date of entry: September 2026
• Duration: 5 or 4 years
• UCAS Code: C502
• Location: Dundee City Campus

Course Overview

Microbiology is the study of microscopic organisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The course focuses on the biology of micro-organisms that are unicellular, multicellular, or acellular (without cells). It covers concepts like growth and regulation, and how microbes react with each other and their environments.

Course Curriculum

The course curriculum is shaped by the work of world-leading researchers to ensure students learn the latest advances. The curriculum includes:

• Genetics
• Cell biology
• Biological organisation
• Molecular mechanisms and processes Students will develop practical skills such as laboratory skills, data analysis, and experiment design.

Year in Industry

The course allows students to spend a year working in industry, for example, in a commercial laboratory. This provides students with the opportunity to gain real-world skills, improve their CV, and network.

Professional Accreditation

This degree is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.

Rankings

The University of Dundee is ranked top in the UK for Research Quality in Biological and Biomedical Sciences according to the Complete University Guide 2026.

Course Structure

The course starts with a broad-based curriculum where students study a wide range of life sciences topics at Levels 1 and 2. At Levels 3 and 4, students focus more on key aspects of microbiology, such as biochemistry, molecular structure, and gene regulation. Students have the flexibility to pick modules that appeal to them, highlighting their interests to future employers.

Year in Industry Placement

The year in industry will occur between levels 3 and 4. The university supports students in finding a suitable placement, and if a placement is not found, students have the opportunity to transfer to the standard four-year course.