Course description
Course description
Microbiology is the study of the biology of bacteria, viruses, protozoa and fungi. An understanding of these organisms has important implications for human health and disease and economic issues.
The third year of this four year programme is the placement year, during which students complete a research project in an institution in the UK or abroad. The University assists students in finding placements and currently has established links with approximately three hundred institutions, ranging from botanical gardens to the pharmaceuticals industry.
Special features
You can transfer between most life sciences degree programmes at the end of the first year, and sometimes after.
You can opt on, or off, the Sandwich Year placement.
Foundation Year available.
Career opportunities
Microbiology graduates from the University of Manchester go into a variety of careers. About half stay in the life sciences and related disciplines, choosing either to study further research or taught courses such as a Masters or PhD, which could lead onto a career in bioscience, or medicine/dentistry degrees. A significant number go on to complete a science teaching qualification, such as a secondary science PGCE. Graduates from 'with industrial/professional experience' programmes are extremely desirable to employers who require significant relevant work experience.
Those that choose a career outside of the life sciences are highly sought after by large multinationals. Graduate programmes in accountancy, finance, law, marketing and publishing are particularly popular choices for graduates from the Faculty who do not wish to stay in science.