University of Leicester

What you'll study

This programme covers the biology, diagnosis and control of microbial pathogens that affect human health. Teaching balances theoretical modules with extensive laboratory practicals to develop technical competence in microbiological and molecular methods.

• Core microbiology: bacterial, viral, fungal and protozoan pathogens, their physiology, pathogenicity and epidemiology.
• Molecular and diagnostic techniques: PCR, sequencing basics, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, microscopy and culture methods used in clinical laboratories.
• Immunology and host response: innate and adaptive immunity, vaccine principles and immune-based diagnostic approaches.
• Infection control and public health: surveillance, outbreak investigation, antimicrobial resistance and principles of infection prevention in healthcare settings.
• Laboratory skills and professional practice: laboratory safety, quality assurance, data analysis and interpretation, and communication of scientific findings.
• Research project: a substantial independent laboratory or literature-based project in your final year supervised by academic staff, reflecting the research strengths of the university.

Course delivery typically includes lectures, small-group tutorials, hands-on laboratory classes, and seminars. Assessment is by a combination of practical reports, coursework, examinations and the final-year project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to demonstrate strong performance in science-based qualifications. Typical requirements include A-levels (or equivalent) with emphasis on Biology and/or Chemistry. Practical laboratory experience from school or college is desirable. For mature and international applicants, equivalent vocational qualifications, recognised international diplomas or relevant work experience will be considered.

In addition, applicants should meet standard university requirements for English language and mathematics proficiency where applicable. Selection may take into account personal statements and references that show commitment to laboratory-based study and an understanding of careers in microbiology.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme are equipped for a range of laboratory and science roles. Typical career pathways include:

• Clinical and diagnostic laboratory roles in NHS and private pathology services
• Public health and epidemiology positions with local or national health agencies
• Quality control and research roles in pharmaceutical, biotech and diagnostics companies
• Infection control, environmental microbiology and food safety laboratories
• Further study at postgraduate level (MSc, PhD) in microbiology, infectious disease, molecular biology or related disciplines, and routes into healthcare professions

The programme also develops transferable skills valued by employers, such as data analysis, scientific communication, problem solving and laboratory management.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers research-led teaching in life sciences with active research groups working on infectious disease, immunology and antimicrobial resistance. Students benefit from modern teaching and research laboratories where practical skills are taught by experienced staff.

Close links with regional NHS pathology services and public health organisations provide relevance to clinical practice and opportunities for applied projects. The university’s careers service and departmental support help students prepare for laboratory-based employment or postgraduate study, while student societies and interdisciplinary events enrich the academic experience.