Microbiology, BSc (Hons)

Course summary

Expand your knowledge of some of the planet's most dominant life forms, and take part in research projects with a global impact, on our BSc Microbiology course. You'll learn about the fundamental properties, genetics and physiology of diverse microbes. Options will then allow you to focus on areas that most interest you, including medical, environmental or food microbiology. You will also have the opportunity to carry out a year-long industrial placement or a paid vacation studentship to gain valuable work and research experience.Our microbiology course has a strong practical basis, and you will learn a wide variety of techniques such as microbial genetics, biochemistry and propagation. During your final year you will have the chance to spend three months working on an original research project of your choice. For more information, please visit our course page: https://www.reading.ac.uk/ready-to-study/study/subject-area/biological-sciences-ug/bsc-microbiology

Modules

The following modules have been approved in principle for delivery in 2025/26. Please note that as part of our current curriculum improvement process, all modules require final University approval and may be subject to change. Please check our website for more details about the course structure.Sample modules for this course include:

• Fundamentals of Microbiology

• Cellular and Molecular Principles of Life

• Infectious Diseases

• Marine Biology and Conservation

• Venoms and Poisons: From Pharmacology to Therapeutics

• Evolution in Health and Disease.

The University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them. Further information about the content of final approved modules will be available in the summer of 2024. We suggest that you regularly revisit our course page during this time to ensure you have the most up-to-date information regarding the modules offered on this programme.

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The following modules have been approved in principle for delivery in 2025/26. Please note that as part of our current curriculum improvement process, all modules require final University approval and may be subject to change. Please check our website for more details about the course structure. Sample modules for this course include:

• Fundamentals of Microbiology

• Cellular and Molecular Principles of Life

• Infectious Diseases

• Marine Biology and Conservation

• Venoms and Poisons: From Pharmacology to Therapeutics

• Evolution in Health and Disease.

The University cannot guarantee that all optional modules will be available to all students who may wish to take them. Further information about the content of final approved modules will be available in the summer of 2024. We suggest that you regularly revisit our course page during this time to ensure you have the most up-to-date information regarding the modules offered on this programme.