(Full time) 2018 start
Medical Microbiology BSc
Overview
Medical microbiology is the study of the ways in which microbes, including bacteria, fungi and viruses, affect our health and this is the major focus of the BSc Medical Microbiology programme. However, a broader knowledge of microbiology and the biosciences in general is essential for a full understanding of medical microbiology.
You should study Medical Microbiology, not only because the skills of a microbiologist will always be in demand, but also because there is hardly an area of medicine unaffected by microbes. From recent influenza epidemics to the ongoing threat of HIV, if you choose Medical Microbiology you will be studying a course that is significant to human health on a global scale and vital for the medical advances that save lives all over the world.
On the Medical Microbiology degree you will focus not only on the importance of microbiology in the world of medicine, but because a broader knowledge of microbiology and the biosciences in general. You will also learn about a range of biosciences, including the disciplines of immunology, biochemistry, genetics and molecular biology.
Each programme is designed to provide you with a broad foundation in the diverse topics that constitute modern microbiology, with a particular emphasis on infectious disease. Leeds has the expertise to teach these at the highest level.
Accreditation
This programme has been accredited by the Royal Society of Biology. Advanced degree accreditation by the Society recognises academic excellence in the biosciences, and highlights degrees that educate the research and development leaders of the future. The advanced accreditation criteria require evidence that graduates from the programme meet defined sets of learning outcomes, including gaining a substantial period of research experience.
Course content
All of our Microbiology courses offer the same content for year one, with key modules introducing you to the essentials required to be successful at degree level. Via lectures, practicals and tutorials you will be introduced to topics such as immunology and genetics, laying the foundations that can then be built upon in years two and three.
In year two you will continue to develop an all-round understanding of the essential topics in biosciences, such as biochemistry, whilst also beginning to specialise in topics such as medical virology and medical immunology. The end of second year also offers the chance to undertake a study year abroad or a year in industry to further develop your skills.
In the final year of your degree you will focus on the laboratory diagnosis of infectious diseases, the problems of antibiotic resistance, and specialist study of fungal and viral infections. You will be offered the chance to study advanced topics in medical microbiology, developing cutting-edge knowledge and laboratory techniques as well as essential transferable skills that will help you really shine in the graduate job market.
Course structure
The list shown below represents typical modules/components studied and may change from time to time. Read more in our terms and conditions.
Learning and teaching
Our degrees are delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and practicals. The first and second year will see a focus on these three teaching methods, building your skills, understanding and knowledge for your final year research project, which will see independent research and learning complemented with the guidance of leading experts in the field.
A typical week in year one includes nine to twelve hours of lectures, a three hour practical session in the lab, additional tutorials, workshop and seminar sessions, plus use of computer-based learning exercises and private study.
Year two consists of (typically) eight lectures per week, a tutorial, laboratory classes lasting between three and six hours, plus use of computer-based learning exercises and private study time.
In year three you will do project work, which takes about two and a half days (mainly in Semester 1). You will also attend lectures, seminars, small-group teaching exercises (mostly in Semester 2) and occasional workshops, together with private study time.
On this course you’ll be taught by our expert academics, from lecturers through to professors. You may also be taught by industry professionals with years of experience, as well as trained postgraduate researchers, connecting you to some of the brightest minds on campus.
Assessment
We use a variety of assessment methods to help you develop a broad range of skills. These include practical work, data handling and problem-solving exercises, multiple-choice tests, group work, online and face-to-face discussion groups, computer-based simulations, essays, posters and oral presentations.
Entry requirements, fees and applying
Entry requirements
A-level: AAA - ABB
We accept the following science subjects: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics.Science- related subjects: PE, Geography, Use of Maths, Psychology, Statistics, Geology and Computing.
Applicants taking a Science A-level (in England) will be required to achieve a pass in the practical element in addition to the standard A-level grade requirement.
GCSE: Typically Grade 6 (B) or above at GCSE Maths and Grade 4 (C) or above at GCSE English.
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Access to HE Diploma
Pass 60 credits overall with 45 credits at Level 3, graded at D45M0P0 to D30M15P0 including distinctions in Biology and Mathematics or Chemistry.Accept Access courses in Applied Science and Science.Will also consider (depending on subject content):- Biochemical Sciences
- Biological and Envionmental Science
- Biological and Health Science
- Biological Sciences
- Biosciences
- Combined Sciences
- Environmental Science
- Life and Biological Science
- Life Science
- Medical and Health Science Professions
- Natural Sciences
- Physical & Natural Sciences.
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BTEC
Applicants with BTEC Diploma or Extended Diploma qualifications are required to have A2 level Biology or Chemistry. Applicants with BTEC Subsidiary Diploma qualifications must normally have at least 2 A2 levels and at least one of these should be biology or chemistry. The preferred BTEC qualification subject is Applied Science. Offers would be grade A in the A2 level science subject and Distinctions in the BTEC qualification. An offer will be made dependent on the BTEC subject and module choices.
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Cambridge Pre-U
D3/D3/D3-D3/M1/M1 including D3 Biology or Chemistry plus one other science or science-related subject. -
International Baccalaureate
35-33 (with 18-17 at higher level) including 6 in higher level Chemistry or Biology and another science or science-related subject at higher level.
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Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
H1,H1,H2,H2,H2,H2 - H2,H2,H2,H2,H2,H2 including H1-H2 Chemistry or Biology and another science at higher level.
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Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
Advanced Higher: 5 x Highers AABBB to ABBBB, with AA-AB in 2 Advanced Highers including Chemistry or Biology and another science or science-related subject. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.
We accept the following science subjects: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics.Science- related subjects: PE, Geography, Use of Maths, Psychology, Statistics, Geology and Computing.
Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own.
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Welsh Baccalaureate
AAA-ABB including Chemistry or Biology and another science or science-related subject. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.We accept the following science subjects: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Maths and Physics.Science- related subjects: PE, Geography, Use of Maths, Psychology, Statistics, Geology and Computing.
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the Schools Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
We’re committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is a contextual admissions scheme which accepts applications from individuals who might be from low income households, in the first generation of their immediate family to apply to higher education, or have had their studies disrupted.
Find out more about Access to Leeds and contextual admissions.
International
We welcome students from around the world and consider a range of qualifications. If your qualification or country does not appear on our entry requirements page, please contact us at fbsadmissions@leeds.ac.uk
Foundation year
If you have the ability to study for a degree but don’t have the qualifications to enter directly to level one, you might consider studying a foundation year. We have formal links with the following foundation year programmes:
University of Leeds International Foundation Year (IFY)
Northern Consortium of UK Universities (NCUK)
Study Group Leeds International Study Centre (LISC)
If you are applying from an alternative foundation year provider, please contact our admissions team to find out if your qualification is suitable for entry to our courses.
International Foundation Year
International students who do not meet the academic requirements for undergraduate study may be able to study the University of Leeds International Foundation Year. This gives you the opportunity to study on campus, be taught by University of Leeds academics and progress onto a wide range of Leeds undergraduate courses. Find out more about International Foundation Year programmes.
English language requirements
IELTS 6.0 overall, with no less than 5.5 in any component.. For other English qualifications, read English language equivalent qualifications.
Improve your English
If you're an international student and you don't meet the English language requirements for this programme, you may be able to study our undergraduate pre-sessional English course, to help improve your English language level.
How to apply
Apply to this course through UCAS. Check the deadline for applications on the UCAS website.
International students apply through UCAS in the same way as UK students. Our network of international representatives can help you with your application. If you’re unsure about the application process, contact the admissions team for help.
Read about visas, immigration and other information in International students. We recommend that international students apply as early as possible to ensure that they have time to apply for their visa.
Admissions policy
University of Leeds Taught Admissions Policy 2024
Fees
UK/EU: See fees section below
International: £21,500 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will be £9,250 for students starting in 2024/25.
The fee may increase in future years of your course in line with inflation only, as a consequence of future changes in Government legislation and as permitted by law.
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2025/26
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students starting in 2025/26 have not yet been confirmed by the UK government. When the fee is available we will update individual course pages.
Tuition fees for international undergraduate students starting in 2024/25 and 2025/26
Tuition fees for international students for 2024/25 are available on individual course pages. Fees for students starting in 2025/26 will be available from September 2024.
Tuition fees for a study abroad or work placement year
If you take a study abroad or work placement year, you’ll pay a reduced tuition fee during this period. For more information, see Study abroad and work placement tuition fees and loans.
Read more about paying fees and charges.
There may be additional costs related to your course or programme of study, or related to being a student at the University of Leeds. Read more on our living costs and budgeting page.
Financial support
If you have the talent and drive, we want you to be able to study with us, whatever your financial circumstances. There is help for students in the form of loans and non-repayable grants from the University and from the government. Find out more in our Undergraduate funding overview.
The Faculty of Biological Sciences offer a range of scholarships for UK, EU and International students. Find out more about our scholarships
Career opportunities
Given the huge importance of microorganisms to all aspects of our lives, microbiologists will always be in demand. Microbiology is an exciting, challenging and rewarding subject; it has a key role to play in the health and development of mankind. 96% of our graduates are employed or in further study six months after graduation (DLHE 2014/15). Typical graduate destinations include employment in laboratories in academia, healthcare and industry, as well as careers in law and other professions. Some graduates go on to further study at MSc or PhD level.
Careers support
We have a dedicated Employability Officer in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who works closely with the University’s Careers Centre. We offer a host of additional opportunities beyond core course content, including volunteering and placements. We also organise regular careers workshops designed specifically for sport sciences students to develop their career opportunities. These include our annual Bioscience Networking Event, which gives you the chance to meet bioscience employers, speak to alumni, attend workshops and get masses of information.
We encourage you to prepare for your career from day one. That’s one of the reasons Leeds graduates are so sought after by employers.
Leeds for Life is our unique approach to helping you make the most of University by supporting your academic and personal development. Find out more at the Leeds for Life website.
The Careers Centre and staff in your faculty provide a range of help and advice to help you plan your career and make well-informed decisions along the way, even after you graduate. Find out more about Careers support.
Study abroad and work placements
Study abroad
On this course you have the opportunity to apply to spend time abroad, usually as an extra academic year. We have over 300 University partners worldwide and popular destinations for our students include Europe, the USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, South Africa and Latin America.
Find out more at the Study Abroad website.
If you choose to undertake a study abroad option, you will spend the third year of the BSc studying abroad. This will extend your studies by 12 months.
Work placements
Practical work experience can help you decide on your career and improve your employability. On this course you have the option to apply to take a placement year module with organisations across the public, private and voluntary sectors in the UK, or overseas.
Find out more about work experience on the Careers website.
Industrial placements are typically taken between your second and final year. If you choose to undertake a placement year, this will extend your studies by 12 months. For your work placement in industry, staff at Leeds will help you with your CV and application letters and provide a list of organisations which may offer industrial placements.
Placements abroad are possible. We work together with your industrial supervisors to make sure you get the most out of this year. A year working in industry gives you an excellent opportunity to get used to the demands of the world of work, to develop new skills and to augment your CV.