University of Leicester

What you'll study

This BSc in Biological Sciences with a Microbiology pathway builds a strong foundation in cell biology, genetics, biochemistry and ecology in the first year, followed by specialist microbiology teaching in subsequent years. Teaching mixes lectures, small-group tutorials, laboratory practicals and research-led project work. Practical sessions train you in aseptic technique, microbial culture and identification, microscopy, molecular methods such as PCR and gel electrophoresis, and basic bioinformatics for analysing sequence data.

Typical module topics include:

• Core bioscience foundations – cell structure and function, molecular biology, metabolism and physiology.
• Microbial diversity and evolution – bacterial, archaeal, fungal and viral biology, taxonomy and evolutionary principles.
• Microbial physiology and genetics – mechanisms of growth, gene regulation, plasmids and horizontal gene transfer.
• Immunology and host–pathogen interactions – innate and adaptive immunity, mechanisms of infection and pathogenesis.
• Applied microbiology – industrial microbiology, fermentation, food and environmental microbiology, antimicrobial resistance and diagnostic microbiology.
• Laboratory skills and molecular techniques – aseptic methods, culturing, microscopy, nucleic acid extraction, PCR, sequencing basics and data analysis.
• Research project – an independent laboratory-based or literature-led research project supervised by academic staff, allowing in-depth study of a microbiological question.

The programme emphasises transferable skills such as experimental design, statistical analysis, scientific communication and critical evaluation of data. Optional modules and dissertation/project choices allow tailoring towards interests such as clinical microbiology, environmental microbiology, biotechnology or microbial genomics.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have a strong science background. Typical entry requirements include A-levels (or recognised international equivalents) with good grades in at least two science subjects; biology is usually required or strongly recommended. Acceptable alternatives include a combination of biology with chemistry, mathematics or another laboratory science. Applicants offering vocational qualifications (such as BTECs) should include sufficient science content at an appropriate level.

Other factors considered during admissions include personal statement, references and any relevant practical experience, such as laboratory work, voluntary placements or relevant employment. International students should meet the University's English language requirements. Mature applicants with non-standard qualifications are assessed on the strength of their overall profile and experience.

Career prospects

Graduates from the Microbiology pathway have a range of career options. Common destinations include:

• Laboratory and technical roles in clinical, environmental or food microbiology laboratories.
• Research assistant or technician positions in university, hospital or industrial research groups.
• Roles in biotechnology and pharmaceutical companies, including quality control and R&D support.
• Public health and infection control roles within health services or governmental agencies.
• Further study: many graduates proceed to specialised MSc courses, professional training (e.g. healthcare-related pathways) or PhD research in microbiology, molecular biology or related disciplines.

Skills developed on the programme — laboratory technique, data analysis, report writing and project management — are also valued in science policy, science communication, regulatory roles and the wider bio-economy.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester has a long-established biological sciences department with research strengths across microbiology, molecular biology and ecology. You will benefit from hands-on teaching in well-equipped laboratories and access to research-active academic staff whose work informs teaching. The programme offers opportunities for research projects within active laboratories, links with local clinical and environmental partners, and career support from the university's employability services.

Smaller-group practicals and project supervision aim to give students direct experience of modern microbiological methods and data analysis. The campus location and the University's connections in the region provide opportunities for placements and collaboration with industry, NHS laboratories and research institutes, helping prepare graduates for professional careers or further study in microbiology and related fields.