Swansea University

What you'll study

This three-year honours programme builds a foundation in cellular and molecular biology before advancing to specialist topics in microbiology and immunology. Teaching blends lectures, small-group tutorials, practical laboratory classes and an independent research project.

Core themes and typical modules

• Fundamental biosciences – cell biology, molecular biology, biochemistry and genetics that underpin microbial and immune system function.
• Microbiology – bacterial, viral and fungal biology; microbial physiology; microbial genetics; mechanisms of pathogenicity and host–microbe interactions.
• Immunology – innate and adaptive immunity, immunopathology, vaccine science and immune responses to infection.
• Applied and clinical topics – infectious disease epidemiology, antimicrobial resistance, diagnostic microbiology and public-health approaches to infection control.
• Laboratory and analytical skills – aseptic technique, culture methods, PCR and next-generation sequencing basics, flow cytometry, microscopy, and bioinformatics/data analysis.
• Research project – a substantial independent laboratory or literature-based project in the final year, supervised by academic staff and aligned with active research themes.
• Professional and transferable skills – scientific communication, data interpretation, ethics and research governance, and preparatory training for further study or employment.

Entry requirements

Typical applicants will have a background in science. Entry criteria are normally expressed as A-level, IB or equivalent qualifications and may include:

• A-levels – a combination that includes Biology or Chemistry; typical offers are in a mid to high grade range for science degrees.
• International Baccalaureate – a reasonable overall score with higher-level science subjects is usually expected.
• Vocational qualifications – BTEC or other relevant diplomas may be considered where they contain sufficient science content; additional science A-levels may be requested.
• GCSEs – pass-level English and Mathematics are normally required; science GCSEs are advantageous.
• Alternative and mature entry – applicants with relevant work experience, access qualifications or non-standard routes are welcome and assessed on their individual profile.

Applicants should check the university's formal published entry criteria and admissions guidance for exact requirements and advice on supporting documentation such as personal statements and references.

Career prospects

Graduates from Microbiology and Immunology move into a wide range of roles across health, research and industry. The degree provides a strong platform for both employment and further study.

• Laboratory and technical roles in clinical diagnostics, hospitals and public-health laboratories.
• Research technician or assistant positions in academic laboratories, government institutes and industrial R&D.
• Careers in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and diagnostics sectors, including roles in quality control, regulatory affairs and product development.
• Public-health, infection prevention and outbreak investigation roles within national and local health organisations.
• Science communication, education and policy roles; progression to postgraduate study (MSc, MPhil, PhD) for research or specialist careers.
• With additional professional training or accredited routes, graduates may pursue registration or specialised clinical scientist pathways where applicable.

Why study at Swansea University

Swansea University offers a research-informed teaching environment with access to well-equipped laboratory facilities and active research groups in microbiology, immunology and infection biology. Teaching emphasises practical laboratory experience, small-group learning and opportunities to undertake a supervised research project that links students with academic staff.

• Interdisciplinary links with medical and pharmaceutical research, providing opportunities for collaborative projects and real-world relevance.
• Strong student support services, careers guidance and skills development to help transition into employment or postgraduate study.
• A learning environment that balances theoretical understanding with hands-on technical training, preparing graduates for varied scientific careers.

Prospective students should consult Swansea University's official course pages for the most up-to-date information on course content, entry requirements and application processes.