Degree Overview & Mission
The curriculum for students majoring in microbiology includes a broad background and education in the sciences, including chemistry, biology, physics, and mathematics as well as specific, focused training in the field of microbiology.
We provide offerings in general microbiology, molecular and microbial genetics, immunology, virology, microbial physiology, pathogenic bacteriology, biotechnology and microbial ecology.
In addition to coursework, students are strongly encouraged to participate in independent research projects with individual faculty members. Students also obtain valuable research experience by participating in summer internship and co-operative education programs.
Admission Requirements
Our microbiology major is available to all undergraduate students.
Program Requirements
Credit Requirement: 35 credits
Required Course Credits: 21 (~7 courses)
Elective Course Credits: 14 credits (~5 courses)
Available courses are outlined below:
| Required Courses | Credits |
| Foundations in Microbiology - MICROBIO 311 | 3 |
| General Microbiology Laboratory - MICROBIO 312 | 3 |
| Infectious Disease & Defense - MICROBIO 320 | 3 |
| Microbial Genetics - MICROBIO 330 | 3 |
| Writing in Microbiology - MICROBIO 360 | 3 |
| Microbial Physiology & Diversity - MICROBIO 480 | 3 |
| Integrated Experience – choice of 10 topics - MICROBIO 494 | 3 x 1 |
| Microbial Biotechnology Electives | |
| Introduction to Biotechnology Laboratory - MICROBIO 385 | 4 |
| Laboratory in Molecular Genetics - MICROBIO 565 | 4 |
| Advanced Topics in Biotechnology - MICROBIO 557 | 3 |
| Advanced Topics in Biochemistry - MICROBIO 597D | 3 |
| Pathogenic Microbiology Electives | |
| Immunology Laboratory - MICROBIO 542 | 3 |
| Pathogenic Microbiology Laboratory - MICROBIO 552 | 3 |
| Outbreaks - MICROBIO 450 | 3 |
| Virology - MICROBIO 570 | 3 |
| Parasitology - MICROBIO 582 | 3 |
| Environmental Microbiology Electives | |
| Environmental Microbiology Laboratory - MICROBIO 562 | 3 |
| Bioinformatics Laboratory - MICROBIO 590B | 3 |
| Microbial Ecology & Evolution - MICROBIO 440 | 3 |
| Other | |
| Independent Study - MICROBIO 196 | 296 | 396 | 496 | Var. |
| Practicum - MICROBIO 398 | Var. |
| Departmental Seminar - MICROBIO 791 | 1 |
Additional Resources
To obtain additional information about our programs, visit our Guide to Undergraduate Programs.
About the Major
Department of Microbiology