University of Leicester

What you'll study

This integrated master's emphasises both breadth in biological sciences and depth in microbiology. Early years cover core topics such as cell biology, biochemistry, genetics and experimental skills, progressing to specialist microbiology modules. Typical advanced modules include molecular microbiology, microbial physiology and metabolism, microbial genetics, pathogenesis and host–microbe interactions, antimicrobial resistance, environmental and applied microbiology, and bioinformatics for microbial genomics.

The course combines lectures and practical laboratory classes with regular data-analysis workshops and journal-club style seminars. The final year is research intensive and revolves around an extended laboratory project under academic supervision; projects often use modern molecular and genomic techniques, microbial culturing, microscopy and bioinformatic analyses. Assessment is by a combination of written exams, coursework, practical reports and the research dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to have strong qualifications in biology or a related science. Entry routes include direct entry from school or college, mature students with relevant experience, and applicants holding an appropriate undergraduate degree seeking the integrated master's path where available. Typical successful applicants demonstrate good practical laboratory experience, competency in relevant biological sciences, and strong academic references. International applicants must meet the University's English language and qualification equivalency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of careers. Common destinations include research positions in academic or industrial laboratories, further study such as a PhD, roles in clinical or veterinary microbiology (with additional professional training), public-health and epidemiology teams, pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries, food safety and environmental monitoring, and science policy or communication.

The programme's emphasis on practical laboratory skills, data analysis and an extended research project also makes graduates attractive to employers seeking personnel experienced in molecular techniques, microbial genomics, and antimicrobial-resistance studies.

Why study at University of Leicester

Leicester offers research-led teaching with active research groups in infection biology, microbial ecology and antimicrobial resistance, providing students with opportunities to work on up-to-date research questions. The university provides well-equipped teaching and research laboratories, access to modern molecular biology and bioinformatics facilities, and close supervision for final-year projects.

Students benefit from a supportive academic environment with careers and employability services, options for industry collaborations or placement projects, and a campus located close to a city with a strong life-sciences and healthcare community. The course is designed to develop both technical competence and transferable skills such as scientific communication, data interpretation and project management.