Program Overview

MSc Molecular Microbiology

Course Summary

The MSc Molecular Microbiology course provides a comprehensive understanding of molecular microbiology, infectious diseases, prevention and treatment, and the biotechnological applications of microorganisms. You’ll gain the theoretical and practical expertise needed to thrive in microbiology-focused careers across healthcare, industry, and research.

How You Learn

You’ll study in an engaging and supportive environment, designed to develop your independence, critical thinking, and professional skills. The course follows our Hallam Model, ensuring an applied, collaborative, and industry-relevant approach to your learning.

• Lectures introduce key concepts, with interactive discussions and problem-solving exercises to encourage deeper learning.
• You'll engage with recent scientific developments and apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.
• Key skills are embedded in your modules and research project – including scientific writing, literature and database searching, data handling, and critical analysis.

Modules

Compulsory Modules

• Advanced Laboratory And Research Practice (20 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (100%)
• Applied Laboratory Practice (20 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (100%)
• Microbial Biotechnology (20 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (100%)
• Microbial Physiology And Pathogenesis (40 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (60%), Exam (40%)
• Research Project (60 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (70%), Practical (30%)

Elective Modules

• Case Studies In Infectious Disease (20 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (100%)
• Data Science (20 credits)
  • Assessment: Coursework (100%)

Future Careers

This course prepares you for a career in:

• The pharmaceutical industry
• The industrial biotechnology sector
• Food and beverage industries
• PhD study

Previous graduates have gone on to work for:

• Public Health England
• AstraZeneca
• Qiagen
• The NHS

Equipment and Facilities

Teaching takes place in lecture theatres, seminar rooms, and specialist laboratory facilities. Through our virtual learning environment Blackboard, you’ll be able to access learning materials, interactive resources, and course information – both on-campus and remotely.

You’ll have access to industry-standard equipment, gaining hands-on experience in scenario-based practical sessions. You’ll gain the technical expertise and practical experience needed for a career in microbiology, using facilities such as:

• Award-winning cell culture suites
• Aseptic microbiology facilities
• High-powered fluorescent microscopes for cell and tissue analysis
• State-of-the-art mass spectrometry equipment
• Molecular biology facilities allowing quantification of nucleic acids and proteins
• An extensive range of analytical equipment, such as high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and gas chromatography (GC)

Where Will I Study?

You study at City Campus through a structured mix of lectures, seminars, and practical sessions as well as access to digital and online resources to support your learning.

Entry Requirements

• A 2:1 in a relevant Honours degree is normally accepted as the entry requirement for the course.
• Applicants with a 2:2 are also actively encouraged to apply and will be considered on an individual basis.
• Applicants with alternative qualifications with academic attainment or skills in subjects which are directly relevant to the course will also be considered.
• If English is not your first language, you will need an IELTS score of 6.0 with a minimum of 5.5 in all skills, or a recognised equivalent.

Fees and Funding

• Home students: Our tuition fee for UK students starting full-time study in 2026/27 is £10,940 for the course.
• International students: Our tuition fee for International/EU students starting full-time study in 2026/27 is £18,600 for the course.
• Postgraduate student loans: Up to £12,858 is available in 2025/26 for home students on most masters courses.