Microbiology, BSc at University of Aberdeen

Microbiology is of growing importance in science, medicine, industry and society, as we seek on the one hand to control microbial pathogens in our hospitals and communities, while on the other, making use of an ever broader range of microorganisms in biotechnology industries. Microbiology is therefore also an applied science, helping health and medicine through the study of pathogens, their epidemiology, and resistance to antibiotics. Microorganisms are also widely used in the agriculture, food and environment industries, for instance in oil spill clean-up.

Through this degree programme, you will develop knowledge and understanding of microbiology at the molecular, cellular and systems levels. Building on that base, you will gain an in depth understanding of selected aspects of Microbiology that reflect the research expertise and strengths within the School, ensuring you are taught by leaders in a particular research field.

What You'll Study

A degree in Microbiology is taught via a selection of compulsory and optional courses to enhance your learning and prepare you for a future career or further study. In each year, you will take courses adding up to 120 credits. Depending on the number of compulsory and optional courses offered by your degree, you can also choose other eligible courses which fit your timetable.

How You'll Study

You will be taught using a variety of methods and styles and we continually seek to make the teaching engaging, exciting and responsive to the latest research in your subject area. The research we carry out in the School directly informs and guides our teaching, particularly in the final Honours year. Our commitment to teaching is recognised by the range of University of Aberdeen Student-led Teaching Awards given to staff from our School.

As a student, your learning is supported by MyAberdeen, our virtual learning environment from which you can access the lecture Powerpoint slides, online practice tests, links to related reading, and tutorial support material.

We make innovative use of 'educational voting' handsets in class, remote control 'clickers' that allow each and every student to electronically respond in class by anonymous vote to questions posed by the lecturer.

Your academic development is supported from year 1 through to year 4 by an assigned personal tutor, who acts as adviser and mentor throughout your University career.

Learning Methods

• GROUP PROJECTS
• INDIVIDUAL PROJECTS
• LAB WORK
• LECTURES
• TUTORIALS

Why Study Microbiology?

• Integrated teaching provision in the allied subject areas of Biochemistry, Genetics and Immunology.
• You will have opportunities for gaining (paid) experience in industry.
• Training is provided in both specialist and employment-related skills.
• The University is ranked 9th in the World and 5th in Europe for its international research collaboration in Biomedical and Health Sciences (Leiden Ranking 2015).
• The University of Aberdeen was named Scottish University of the Year, (The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide 2019)
• The University of Aberdeen is a World Top 170 University (Times Higher Education World University Rankings 2020)
• The University of Aberdeen is a Top 30 UK University, Complete University Guide 2020