Program Overview

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Microbiology with Professional Studies

Overview

Microbiology is the study of bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses, and is of immense importance in relation to 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.

Course Structure

The BSc in Microbiology with Professional Studies is a four-year degree programme that includes a minimum of 46 weeks of work placement during which students will carry out project-type work. The programme is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of microbiology and its applications, as well as the skills and knowledge required for a career in this field.

Professional Accreditations

The programme is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology, which highlights the academic quality of the course and recognizes the course in enabling graduates to meet the needs of employers through the development of technical and transferable skills.

Global Opportunities

Microbiologists are needed in many different fields – from medicine to biotechnology to environmental science. The subject is actually very broadly applicable and can lead to very diverse career paths.

Industry Links

Past students have gained work placement with organisations such as Northern Ireland Water Ltd, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, the Forensic Science Service, the NHS, Norbrook Laboratories, Randox Laboratories, the Almac Group, and Moy Park.

World Class Facilities

Microbiology is linked closely to the Institute for Global Food Security and is primarily taught by associated staff.

Student Experience

Work placements on these programmes provide students with the opportunity to utilise the practical skills gained during the teaching of their degree and apply these in a work environment.

Further Study Opportunities

Further study is also an option open to microbiology graduates. Students can choose from a wide range of Master's programmes as well as a comprehensive list of research topics as shown on the School website.

Student Testimonials

"As a mature student, I was a little worried at the idea of going to university, but my fellow students are a lot of fun and my lecturers are very supportive, and I have gained a greater appreciation of how something as little as a virus, bacterium or fungus can affect our lives." - Denver Mooney, BSc Microbiology Graduate

Course Content

The programme includes a range of modules that cover the principles of microbiology, including the biology of microorganisms, microbial genetics, microbial metabolism, and microbial ecology. Students also have the opportunity to choose from a range of optional modules that allow them to specialise in areas of interest.

Modules

• Fundamentals of Microbiology (20 credits)
• Molecular Basis of Life (20 credits)
• Genetics and the Molecular Toolbox (20 credits)
• World of Microorganisms (20 credits)
• Environmental Biology (20 credits)
• Fundamentals of Chemistry (20 credits)
• Environmental Sciences (20 credits)
• Biodiversity (20 credits)
• Structure, Reactivity and Mechanism in Organic and Bioorganic Chemistry (20 credits)
• Molecular Genetics and Bioinformatics II (20 credits)
• Diagnostic Microbiology (20 credits)
• Molecular Genetics and Bioinformatics 1 (20 credits)
• Microbial Metabolism and Biocatalysis (20 credits)
• Microorganisms in Action (20 credits)
• Cell Biology (20 credits)
• Professional Studies (120 credits)
• Medical Microbiology (20 credits)
• Microbiome: Biotechnological applications and ‘Omic manipulations (20 credits)
• Zoonoses (20 credits)
• Parasitology (20 credits)
• Research Project (40 credits)

Entry Requirements

• A-level requirements: BBB including Biology and at least one from Chemistry (preferred), Geography, Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Chemistry grade B/6 or GCSE Double Award Science grades BB/6,6 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4
• Irish leaving certificate requirements: H3H3H3H3H4H4/H3H3H3H3H3 including Higher Level grade H3 in Biology and at least one from Chemistry (preferred), Geography, Mathematics or Physics + if not offered at Higher Level then Ordinary Level grade O3 in Chemistry and O4 in Mathematics
• Access Course: Successful completion of a relevant Science based Access Course (120 credits) with an average of 80% and no less than 70% in any module
• International Baccalaureate Diploma: 32 points overall including 6,5,5 at Higher Level including Biology and Chemistry (preferred) or Mathematics or Physics + GCSE Chemistry grade B/6 or GCSE Double Award Science grades BB/6,6 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4

Careers

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.

Employment Links

The School of Biological Sciences has a dedicated Work Placement and Careers advisor who has developed contacts with an extensive portfolio of employers, both nationally and internationally, within the science sector.

Prizes and Awards

A level 2 prize is awarded for the best overall student in conjunction with the UK Microbiology Society.

Degree Plus/Future Ready 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.

Tuition Fees

• Northern Ireland (NI): £4,855
• Republic of Ireland (ROI): £4,855
• England, Scotland or Wales (GB): £9,535
• EU Other: £25,300
• International: £25,300

Additional Course Costs

• Year 1 students are required to buy a laboratory coat at a cost of £13.5 and an E-Book at a cost of £30
• The following optional module has a compulsory field trip: Year 1 Environmental Biology Module has a fieldtrip costing £150
• All students may apply to go on a School Workplace Tour at a cost of £100
• Students undertake a placement in year 3 and are responsible for funding travel, accommodation and subsistence costs

How to Apply

Application for admission to full-time undergraduate and sandwich courses at the University should normally be made through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS).