(Full time) 2019 start
Microbiology MBiol, BSc
Overview
Microbiology is the study of living organisms that are too small to be visible with the naked eye, including bacteria, fungi and viruses. These microbes are key to our understanding of life on this planet – from human and animal disease, to better food production and microbial involvement in global cycles.
The study of microbiology requires expertise in a range of areas, such as immunology, genetics, biochemistry and cell biology, which we'll train you in throughout your degree.
You’ll study a range of microbiological topics affecting humanity today, such as bacterial resistance to antibiotics, use of microbes in biotechnology for food production and agriculture, and how microbes cause disease.
There’s a focus on practical and analytical training in microbiological and molecular techniques, equipping you for a wide range of future careers in scientific and health research, and beyond.
Our integrated Masters offers you an additional year of specialist training and an advanced qualification. You’ll study specialist research topics and undertake an extended research project.
Course highlights
- Choice: As well as building a broad understanding of microbiology you’ll have the chance to develop specialist knowledge through in-depth study on optional modules.
- Learn from experts: Our academics are active researchers and leaders in the field and have the expertise to teach microbiology at the highest level.
- Research opportunities: You’ll receive extensive training opportunities in microbiological and molecular techniques – essential for careers in scientific research.
- Flexibility: Common core modules in the first year of many of our courses mean you could have the opportunity to transfer onto a related degree course as your interests develop.
- Excellent student satisfaction: We received a 100% satisfaction score for Microbiology in the most recent National Student Satisfaction survey (NSS, 2017)
- Accreditation: Our MBiol and BSc with Industrial Placement Year courses have been awarded advanced accreditation by the Royal Society for Biology.
Accreditation
Our BSc with Industrial Placement Year and MBiol courses have 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
During Year 1 you’ll study an introduction to microbiology, genetics, immunology, biochemistry and cell biology themes and will learn more about tissues, organs and body processes.
You’ll have plenty of opportunities to develop your practical skills with hands-on laboratory sessions, while tutorials and lectures will help strengthen your core theoretical skills – the key foundations needed for success at degree level.
From the knowledge and skills base acquired in Year 1, you’ll proceed to more advanced, specialised topics in your chosen area of interest.
At the end of Year 1, there are opportunities to transfer between the Microbiology, Biological Sciences and Biology courses (including Genetics).
In Year 2 you’ll continue to develop a broad understanding of key themes within biosciences while building on your practical and research skills from first year.
You’ll also get to engage in more in-depth study of the areas that interest you the most, with modules in areas such as virology, bacteriology, immunology and genetic engineering. This allows you to specialise in the detailed examination of infection, from the medical perspective and in relation to the biochemistry and cell biology of microbial replication and pathogenesis.
You’ll have the opportunity to gain a comprehensive understanding of how micro-organisms cause disease and the options available for the treatment of these conditions.
The end of second year also offers you the chance to take a study year abroad or a year in industry to further develop your skills.
Year 3 offers you specialist topics such as study of emerging infections, an in-depth study of the hepatitis viruses to gene therapy in humans.
Alongside this, a considerable part of your final year will involve an in-depth research project in which you will take all the skills you have developed in your degree and apply them to your own independent research while under the supervision of a leading academic. The culmination of your third year will be a portfolio of skills, knowledge, and experiences that will allow you to pursue your graduate career aspirations.
Integrated Masters (MBiol)
Years 1 and 2 are the same as for the BSc and provide a foundation in the subject.
In Year 3 of the MBiol will prepare you for the Masters level topics and research you’ll be immersed in during your final year.
You’ll undertake a research project, and study compulsory and optional modules as well as a research preparation module, using many of the Faculty’s research facilities.
In Year 4, alongside a selection of Masters level modules covering areas such as human diseases, you’ll also manage your own extended-research project in collaboration with a professional researcher. This final year aims to prepare you for a career in research as well as equipping you with the enhanced skills and expertise valued for the graduate entry level jobs.
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
You’ll have access to the very best learning resources and academic support during your studies. We’ve been awarded a Gold rating in the Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF, 2017), demonstrating our commitment to delivering consistently outstanding teaching, learning and outcomes for our students.
You’ll experience a wide range of teaching methods including lectures, tutorials and practicals. Your first and second years will focus on these three teaching methods, building your skills, understanding and knowledge in preparation for your final year research project, which will see you take on independent research and learning with the guidance of leading experts.
Across all years, additional workshop and seminar sessions will complement your lectures and lab practicals, and you will also undertake private study.
As a guide, a typical week in your first year includes nine to twelve hours of lectures, three to six hours of practical sessions in the laboratory, tutorials, workshop and seminar sessions, plus private study.
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
BSc:
A-level: AAA - ABB
Including Biology or Chemistry and another science or science-related subject. Critical Thinking and General Studies excluded.
We accept the following science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics. Science-related subjects: PE, geography, use of mathematics, 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.
MBiol:
A-level: AAA
Including Biology or Chemistry 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.
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: 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
D45 M0 P0 – D30 M15 P0.
Overall pass with 60 credits and a minimum of 45 credits at level 3, with distinctions in at least 30 graded level 3 credits including Biology and Chemistry units (15 units in each), and a merit in all the remaining graded credits.
We accept Access courses in Applied Science. We 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.MBiol:
We do not accept Access to HE.
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BTEC
BSc:
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.MBiol:
We do not accept BTEC qualifications. -
Cambridge Pre-U
BSc:
D3/D3/D3-D3/M1/M1 including D3 in Biology or Chemistry plus one other science or science-related subject.MBiol:
D3/D3/D3 including D3 in Biology or Chemistry plus one other science or science-related subject. -
International Baccalaureate
BSc:
35-33 (with 18-17 at higher level) including 6 in higher level Biology or Chemistry and another science or science-related subject at higher level.MBiol:
35 (with 18 at higher level) including 6 in higher level Biology or Chemistry and another science or science-related subject at higher level. -
Irish Leaving Certificate (higher Level)
BSc:
H2,H2,H2,H2,H2,H2 - H2,H2,H2,H3,H3,H3 including H2 in Chemistry or Biology and another science at higher level.MBiol:
H2,H2,H2,H2,H2,H2 including H2 in Chemistry or Biology and another science at higher level. -
Scottish Highers / Advanced Highers
BSc:
Advanced Higher: 5 x Highers AABBB-ABBBB, with AA-AB in 2 Advanced Highers including Biology or Chemistry and another science or science-related subject. General Studies and Critical Thinking excluded.We accept the following science subjects: biology, human biology, chemistry, mathematics, physics. Science- related subjects: PE, geography, use of mathematics, psychology, statistics, geology and computing.
Scottish Higher: Scottish Highers not accepted on their own.
MBiol:
Advanced Higher: 5 x Highers AABBB, with AA in 2 Advanced Highers including Biology or Chemistry and another science or science-related subject. General Studies and Critical Thinking 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.
Read more about UK and Republic of Ireland accepted qualifications or contact the Schools Undergraduate Admissions Team.
Alternative entry
Were committed to identifying the best possible applicants, regardless of personal circumstances or background.
Access to Leeds is an alternative 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 alternative admissions.
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.
We welcome applications from mature students. We welcome applications from mature students from all backgrounds onto both full-time and part-time programmes.
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: £22,750 (per year)
Tuition fees for UK undergraduate students starting in 2023/24 and 2024/25
Tuition fees for UK full-time undergraduate students are set by the UK Government and will remain capped at £9,250 for 2023/24 and 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 international undergraduate students starting in 2023/24 and 2024/25
Tuition fees for international students for 2023/24 and 2024/25 are available on individual course pages.
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.
Career opportunities
As well as providing you with subject-specific knowledge, we aim to equip you with the best possible skills for a variety of future careers. All of our degrees have a strong emphasis on practical based teaching, small group teaching, online learning and problem solving.
Throughout the degree, you’ll gain a wide range of transferable skills which are highly valued by employers. Supported by the Leeds for Life scheme and your academic and personal tutor, you’ll be ideally placed to focus on your personal development and make the most of your time at university.
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.
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
Dedicated employability team
We have a dedicated employability team in the Faculty of Biological Sciences who work closely with the University’s Careers Centre to support your development.
We offer a host of additional opportunities beyond core course content, including volunteering and placements. These include our annual Faculty Graduate Panel, where graduates are invited back to talk about their work and network with our students, and our STEM Careers Fair, which gives you the chance to meet bioscience employers, such as AstraZeneca, Covance, GSK, Nuffield Health, RSPB, Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, 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 your course 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 after your second year. If you choose to undertake a placement year, this will extend your studies by 12 months. For your work placement, 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.
Some of the places Microbiology students have been placed are:
- Moslon Coors Brewers, Burton-on-Trent
- AstraZeneca
- Mayo Clinic, Florida
- Novartis, San Francisco
- Covance, Harrogate