Colorado State University

What you'll study

This programme combines core biological science with specialised courses in microbiology and immunology. Early years focus on foundational subjects: general biology, general and organic chemistry, calculus, and introductory laboratory skills. Progressing through the degree, you study cell biology, molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry and microbial physiology, together with dedicated courses in immunology, pathogenic microbiology, virology and host–microbe interactions.

• Core laboratory training: microbiological techniques, aseptic technique, culture methods, microscopy, molecular cloning, PCR and sequencing approaches.
• Immunology topics: innate and adaptive immunity, immunogenetics, immunopathology and vaccine principles.
• Advanced and applied modules: microbial ecology, antimicrobial resistance, diagnostic microbiology, bioinformatics for microbiology and quantitative methods for biological research.
• Capstone and research: senior seminar or capstone project and opportunities for mentored undergraduate research in campus laboratories, often culminating in a poster or thesis-style report.
• Electives and cross-disciplinary options: public health, One Health approaches, animal microbiology, environmental microbiology, and internship placements with industry or public agencies.

Structure

The degree typically follows a four-year curriculum with general education requirements in the first two years and progressively specialised coursework thereafter. Students can choose research tracks or applied tracks with internships. Hands-on lab work and an independent research project or capstone in the final year are common requirements.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a secondary/high-school qualification or equivalent with a strong record in science and mathematics. Typical preparation includes courses in biology, chemistry and algebra/precalculus; familiarity with laboratory work is advantageous. Admission decisions consider academic performance, personal statements and any relevant extracurricular or research experience. Transfer students are evaluated on college coursework in the natural sciences and general education.

For students aiming for competitive specialisations or research placements, prior coursework in chemistry (including organic chemistry) and introductory biology is recommended. Prospective applicants should consult the university’s admissions pages for specific documentation and any standardised testing policies.

Career prospects

Graduates work across research, health and industry sectors. Typical entry-level roles include laboratory technician, research assistant, quality control/assurance analyst in biotech or pharmaceutical companies, and diagnostic technologist in clinical or public-health laboratories. Employers include private biotech firms, contract research organisations, hospital and clinical laboratories, environmental testing firms and government public-health agencies.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for postgraduate study and professional programmes: many alumni progress to MSc or PhD research degrees in microbiology, immunology or related biomedical sciences, as well as professional degrees such as medical school, veterinary medicine, physician assistant programmes and public-health masters programmes.

Why study at Colorado State University

Colorado State University offers this programme within a research-active environment with established strengths in infectious disease, immunology and veterinary biomedical sciences. The campus houses specialised facilities and faculty whose research covers molecular microbiology, pathogen ecology, antimicrobial resistance and host–pathogen interactions, providing undergraduates with access to ongoing projects and mentoring.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across departments, connections to the university's veterinary and public-health centres, and internship opportunities with regional biotech companies and public-health laboratories. The campus setting in Fort Collins also supports outdoor and field-based learning relevant to environmental and ecological aspects of microbiology. Career services and undergraduate research programmes help students translate academic experience into employment or further study pathways.