University of Michigan

What you'll study

This programme builds a foundation in cellular and molecular biology, then advances to specialised study of microbes and host immune responses. Core areas include microbial physiology and diversity, microbial genetics and genomics, molecular immunology, pathogenesis and host–pathogen interactions, virology, bacteriology, and the molecular basis of immune signalling. Students also take essential supporting subjects such as biochemistry, cell biology, and statistics or bioinformatics to analyse biological data.

• Foundational courses: general biology, general chemistry and analytical chemistry, introductory cell and molecular biology, and biostatistics.
• Core microbiology and immunology: microbial genetics, microbial physiology, immunology I & II, viral biology, and infectious disease biology.
• Laboratory and skills training: multi-term laboratory courses that teach aseptic technique, molecular cloning, PCR and sequencing workflows, microscopy, cell culture, flow cytometry, and immunoassays (ELISA, Western blot).
• Advanced electives: microbial genomics, host–pathogen interactions, vaccine biology, antibiotic resistance, systems immunology, and bioinformatics for microbiology.
• Research experience and capstone: options include an honours thesis or independent research project in a faculty laboratory, summer research placements, and participation in the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP).
• Interdisciplinary opportunities: coursework and collaborations with medical, public health and engineering units for students interested in translational research, diagnostics, and biotechnology applications.

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Michigan is competitive. Prospective students for this major should present a strong secondary-school record with emphasis on the sciences and quantitative subjects. Typical preparation includes:

• High-school coursework in biology and chemistry; one year of physics and mathematics (algebra, precalculus or calculus) is strongly recommended.
• Advanced-level qualifications (A-levels, IB, or national equivalents) with high grades in biology and chemistry; AP Biology and AP Chemistry or other recognised college-level coursework are advantageous for US applicants.
• Successful applicants often demonstrate laboratory experience through classes, research internships, or science competitions, and show clear interest in microbiology or immunology in their personal statement.
• International applicants should meet the University’s general admissions requirements for language proficiency and credential evaluation; consult the admissions office for programme-specific guidance.
• Meeting minimum course preparation does not guarantee admission; departmental advising is available for students who wish to change into the major after matriculation.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for a wide range of careers in research, healthcare, industry and public service. Common paths include:

• Research and laboratory careers: entry-level roles in academic, government or industry laboratories; many graduates continue to graduate study (MSc/PhD) in microbiology, immunology or related fields.
• Healthcare professions: preparation for medical, dental, veterinary or physician assistant programmes; clinical laboratory science roles with additional certification.
• Biotechnology and pharmaceuticals: positions in R&D, quality control, regulatory affairs, and product development for diagnostics, vaccines and therapeutics.
• Public health and epidemiology: roles in disease surveillance, outbreak response and public-health agencies, often combined with further training in public health.
• Science communication, policy and education: careers in scientific outreach, policy advising, patent law (with further qualification), and teaching.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers a research-intensive environment with access to interdisciplinary faculty, clinical partners and core facilities that support advanced microbiology and immunology work. Undergraduates benefit from structured research programmes such as the Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program (UROP), opportunities to join faculty-led labs, and collaborations with medical and public-health units. Ann Arbor’s strong biotech and healthcare ecosystem provides internship and employment links, while campus advising and career services help students prepare for graduate and professional school or direct entry into the workforce.