BSc

Microbiology

You are viewing this course for September start 2022

Key Facts

C500

  • UCAS Tariff

    120 - 104

  • Course duration

    3 years

Further details on entry requirements

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Microbiologists study bacteria, fungi, and viruses, and their role in infectious diseases in humans, other animals and plants. You will also learn how microorganisms contribute to environmental nutrient cycling, brewing, food, and biotechnology industries, whilst you develop the scientific and analytical skills demanded in a broad range of professions.

Here’s why we think Aberystwyth is a great place to study microbiology:

  • Passionate teaching staff that conduct research in all areas of microbiology;
  • Fantastic bio-imaging and microscopy suite, modern laboratories and fermentation facilities;
  • Farms and woodlands for studying environmental microbes and those that impact on animal health.

Course Overview

Royal Society of Biology Accredited Degree

Why study Microbiology at Aberystwyth University?

  • Taught by enthusiastic teaching staff who are experts in their field. You may have seen some of them on TV documentaries, or listened to them on your favourite science radio show.

Fantastic facilities which include:

  • An advanced microscopy and bio-imaging laboratory;
  • Fermentation facilities from lab scale to pilot plant;
  • Translational Genomics Laboratory;
  • Extreme Experimental Environments Laboratory;
  • Learn in a world renowned teaching and research institute;
  • International Opportunities are available through work and study placements.

Want to study in Welsh? 

Students can elect to study a number of IBERS modules in the medium of Welsh. Check out the module tab for more information!

If you would like to study Microbiology with an Integrated Masters, then have a look at our sister course with an additional year allowing you to complete a Master's qualification (C509). 

Our Staff

The majority of teaching staff at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences are qualified to PhD level and are research active. Vocational courses also have staff whose background lies within industry.  The Institute has a large number of research only staff with whom students may have contact.

Modules September start - 2022

Please note: The modules listed below are those currently intended for delivery during the next academic year and may be subject to change. They are included here to give an indication of how the course is structured.

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Biochemistry and the Cellular Basis of Life BR15320 20
Ecology BR13510 10
Evolution and the Diversity of Life BR14310 10
Exploring Genetics BR14410 10
Metabolism BR12010 10
Microbial Diversity BR12110 10
Molecular Laboratory Skills BR12210 10
Study and Communication Skills BR12410 10
The Biosphere BR13210 10

Options

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Comparative Animal Physiology BR14110 10
Soils and their Management BR14910 10
The Green Planet BR13610 10

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Environmental Microbiology and Monitoring BR26020 20
Practical and Professional Skills in Microbiology BR24720 20
Research Methods BR27520 20
One Health Microbiology BR26520 20

Options

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Applied Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics BR20620 20
Cell and Cancer Biology BR25920 20
Immunology BR22220 20
Proteins and Enzymes BR26620 20

Core

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Biotechnology BR35520 20
Microbial Pathogenesis BR33720 20
Research Project BR36440 40

Options

Module Name Module Code Credit Value
Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics BR37120 20
Molecular Pharmacology BR36120 20
Terrestrial Ecology Fieldcourse BR36620 20
Veterinary Infectious Diseases BR34120 20

* Also available partially or entirely through the medium of Welsh

Careers

What are our graduates doing? 

Our graduates have been successful in the following fields: 

  • Research Science; 
  • Clinical Molecular Genetics;
  • Nature Conservation;
  • Education.

Students from our department have also progressed to undertake training in Dentistry and Medicine. 

What skills will I develop from studying BSc Microbiology?

Employability is embedded in our teaching. Our students leave Aberystwyth University with skills including: 

  • research and data analysis skills;
  • enhanced mathematical and computational skills;
  • effective problem-solving and creative thinking skills;
  • a thorough grounding in information technology skills;
  • the ability to work independently;
  • time-management and organisational skills, including the ability to meet deadlines;
  • the ability to express ideas and communicate information in a clear and structured manner, in both written and oral form;
  • self-motivation and self-reliance;
  • team-working, with the ability to discuss concepts in groups, accommodating different ideas and reaching an agreement.

What work experience opportunities exist whilst studying? 

Click here to find out about the various opportunities that our Aberystwyth University Careers team offer. 

Enhance your employability prospects with GO Wales and YES (Year in Employment Scheme) managed by our Careers department. 

Course Content

What will I learn?

The breakdown below will provide you with an illustration of what you may study during the three year degree scheme.

In the first year you may discover:

  • Cell Biology;
  • Microbial Diversity;
  • Laboratory skills;
  • Ecology.

In your second year you may explore:

  • One Health Microbiology;
  • Environmental Microbiology;
  • Practical and Professional Skills in Microbiology;

With option to study immunology, bioinformatics, cancer biology or proteins.

In your third year you may study:

  • Microbial Biotechnology;
  • Microbial Pathogenesis;
  • Independent research project.

With option to study pharmacology, genomics, veterinary infectious diseases or field ecology.

How will I be taught? 

The course will be delivered through lectures, workshops, tutorials and practicals. You will be assessed through: 

  • Essays;
  • Practical exercises;
  • Oral presentations;
  • Worksheets;
  • Reports;
  • Statistical exercises;
  • Portfolios;
  • Wikis;
  • Magazine articles;
  • Field notebooks;
  • Exams.

Typical Entry Requirements

UCAS Tariff 120 - 104

A Levels BBB-BCC with B in Biology

GCSE requirements (minimum grade C/4):
English or Welsh and Mathematics

BTEC National Diploma:
DDD-DDM in a specified subject

International Baccalaureate:
30-28 with 5 points in Biology at Higher Level

European Baccalaureate:
75%-65% overall with 7 in Biology

English Language Requirements:
See our Undergraduate English Language Requirements for this course. Pre-sessional English Programmes are also available for students who do not meet our English Language Requirements.

Country Specific Entry Requirements:
International students whose qualification is not listed on this page, can check our Country Specific Entry Requirements for further information.

The University welcomes undergraduate applications from students studying the Access to Higher Education Diploma or T-level qualifications, provided that relevant subject content and learning outcomes are met. We are not able to accept Access to Higher Education Diplomas or T-levels as a general qualification for every undergraduate degree course.
Our inclusive admissions policy values breadth as well as depth of study. Applicants are selected on their own individual merits and offers can vary. If you would like to check the eligibility of your qualifications before submitting an application, please contact the Undergraduate Admissions Office for advice and guidance.

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