Molecular and Medical Microbiology (Formerly Microbiology)
College of Biological Sciences
- Bachelor of Arts
- Bachelor of Science
Ever wonder how microorganisms affect human, animal and environmental health? The trillions of tiny organisms dwelling around us and within us affect our lives in profound ways. Some are vital to our bodies or food production; others cause destructive diseases. The field of microbiology contributes to biochemistry, cell biology, evolution, genetics, molecular biology, pathogenesis and physiology. The microbiology major prepares students for graduate studies and a variety of health-related careers. Advances in microbiology have had great impact in areas such as agriculture, biotechnology, ecology, medicine and veterinary science.
Major Requirements
You'll begin your study with foundation courses in biological sciences, chemistry, mathematics and physics. At the upper-division level, you'll study advanced general topics in the biological sciences, and you may also choose from such courses as microbial ecology, bacterial physiology and genetics, virology and bacterial diversity. You may choose to pursue an A.B. degree, giving you greater opportunity to choose courses outside your major, or a B.S. degree, providing more rigorous training in biological science.
Contact Information
Careers
- Physician
- Biotechnologist
- Diagnostics/Clinical Lab Technician
- Science Teacher
- Patent Lawyer
Graduate Study
- Medicine
- Dentistry
- Veterinary science
- Pharmacy
- Epidemiology
Alumni Employers
- Genentech
- Bayer
- National Institutes for Health and Center for Disease Control
Your course roadmap
Find the detailed course requirements for your program and map out your path to graduation.
The faculty you will work with
Our undergraduates work directly with our faculty through research projects and labs.
Global learning programs
Expand your horizons by studying abroad or pursuing global learning on campus.
Undergraduate research
Get hands on with your interests. Participate in one of our hundreds of research opportunities.
What can I do with my microbiology major?
Learn how to connect your microbiology major to career opportunities.