Program Overview

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Microbiology (BSc)

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 is a three-year full-time programme that provides fundamental training in data analysis, problem solving, teamwork and communication. Microbiologists can use these skills in a wide range of careers in research, medicine, industry, education, business and communications, or as a route to further study.

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)
• 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 or GCSE Double Award Science grades BB + GCSE Mathematics grade C
• 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/Foundation 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
• BTEC Level 3 Extended/National Extended Diploma: QCF Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma (180 credits), with DDD + GCSE Chemistry grade B/6 or GCSE Double Award Science grades BB/6,6 + GCSE Mathematics grade C/4

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 £13.50 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

Career Prospects

• Healthcare: Microbiologists are essential in the fight against infectious diseases working in hospitals and Health Protection Laboratories
• Basic research: In order to either solve the problems caused by microorganisms or exploit their capabilities fundamental research on their biochemistry and genetics is required
• Environment: One of the greatest challenges currently facing society is that of climate change and environmental protection
• Agriculture: Pest management is an essential component of modern agricultural practice
• 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, drink etc.

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
• For example, placements, voluntary work, clubs, societies, sports and lots more
• So not only do you graduate with a degree recognised from a world leading university, you'll have practical national and international experience plus a wider exposure to life overall
• We call this Degree Plus/Future Ready Award
• It's what makes studying at Queen's University Belfast special

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

Professional Accreditations

• The Microbiology degrees follow the National Subject Profile for Higher Education Programmes in Microbiology as published by the Centre for Bioscience (Higher Education Academy)
• The degrees also broadly align with the core curriculum in Microbiology as described by the American Society for Microbiology
• Our degrees are highly regarded – scoring consistently highly in the National Student Survey
• This course has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology
• This highlights the academic quality of the course and recognises the course in enabling graduates to meet the needs of the employer through development of technical and transferable skills

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 at QUB and is primarily taught by associated staff
• The Institute is one of three major research centres in the University

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

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)
• Full information can be obtained from the UCAS website at: www.ucas.com

Terms and Conditions

• The terms and conditions that apply when you accept an offer of a place at the University on a taught programme of study
• Queen's University Belfast Terms and Conditions

Additional Information for International (non-EU) Students

• Most students make their applications through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) for full-time undergraduate degree programmes at Queen's
• The UCAS application deadline for international students is 30 June 2025
• The Direct Entry Application form is to be used by international applicants who wish to apply directly, and only, to Queen's or who have been asked to provide information in advance of submitting a formal UCAS application
• Find out more
• The University’s in-country representatives can assist you to submit a UCAS application or a direct application
• Please consult the Agent List to find an agent in your country who will help you with your application to Queen’s University

English Language Requirements

• An IELTS score of 6.5 with a minimum of 5.5 in each test component or an equivalent acceptable qualification, details of which are available at: www.qub.ac.uk/EnglishLanguageReqs
• If you need to improve your English language skills before you enter this degree programme, Queen's University Belfast International Study Centre offers a range of English language courses
• These intensive and flexible courses are designed to improve your English ability for admission to this degree

International Scholarships

• Information on scholarships for international students, is available at: www.qub.ac.uk/International-students/International-scholarships