University of Leicester

What you'll study

This programme combines taught modules with a substantial research project. Core themes include microbial pathogenesis, cellular and molecular immunology, host–pathogen interactions, antimicrobial resistance, diagnostics and principles of vaccine development. Teaching emphasises contemporary laboratory techniques — such as advanced microscopy, molecular diagnostics (PCR and sequencing approaches), culture methods, flow cytometry and immunoassays — together with interpretation of data and experimental design.

Typical module topics include:

• Fundamentals of Immunology and Immune Regulation
• Mechanisms of Microbial Pathogenesis
• Host–Pathogen Interactions and Disease
• Diagnostics, Surveillance and Epidemiology of Infectious Disease
• Antimicrobial Resistance and Stewardship
• Research Skills, Statistics and Bioinformatics for Infection Biology
• Laboratory Techniques and Safety
• MSc Research Project and Dissertation (laboratory- or literature-based, supervised by academic staff)

The course is offered full‑time (typically one year) and part‑time routes are available to accommodate professional students. The research project forms a major component and provides hands‑on experience in experimental design, data collection, analysis and scientific writing.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (equivalent to a UK 2:1 or above) in a relevant subject such as biomedical science, biological sciences, microbiology, immunology, medicine, veterinary science or a related discipline. Applicants with a lower second-class degree and substantial relevant laboratory experience, or professional qualifications in clinical or diagnostic disciplines, will also be considered.

Professional applicants working in clinical laboratories, public health or industry who can demonstrate relevant experience and responsibilities are welcome to apply. As the programme includes laboratory work, applicants should be prepared to provide evidence of appropriate immunisation and any occupational health clearance required.

International applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English; typical university guidance is to meet an acceptable English language standard. Specific evidence requirements and equivalence are confirmed at application.

Career prospects

Graduates from this MSc commonly move into research roles in academic laboratories, further doctoral study (PhD), or laboratory and diagnostic positions in hospital and public health settings. The programme also prepares students for roles in the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries — for example in antimicrobial discovery, vaccine research, diagnostics development and clinical trials — as well as positions in policy, surveillance and infection control.

Typical career paths include biomedical scientist/clinical laboratory scientist (subject to local professional registration where required), research scientist, microbiologist, immunologist, public health analyst, regulatory affairs or scientific roles in industry. The transferable skills gained — critical appraisal, experimental design, data analysis and scientific communication — are also valued in science management, education and science communication roles.

Why study at University of Leicester

The University of Leicester offers a research-led learning environment with active infection and immunology research groups and well‑equipped teaching laboratories. Students benefit from supervision by academics engaged in contemporary infectious disease research, access to modern molecular and immunological techniques, and links with local clinical and public health laboratories that support translational and applied projects.

Teaching emphasises applied laboratory competence alongside theoretical understanding, and the School provides support for research skills training, bioinformatics and statistical analysis. The programme’s flexibility to accommodate part‑time study makes it suitable for working professionals, while the substantial research project provides a platform for further academic study or immediate application in the workplace.