Microbiology and Immunology, BSc (Hons) / MSci (Hons)

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Microbiology and immunology

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Course Overview

Microbiology is the branch of science that focuses on the study of microorganisms, exploring all forms of microscopic life from bacteria to fungi, protozoa, and even non-living viruses. Alongside this, immunology is the study of the immune system, and how the human body protects itself against these organisms by a number of different pathways and processes.

Our interdisciplinary degrees bring these two areas together, focusing on how they interplay with one another in response to infectious diseases as well as considering disorders that occur as the result of a malfunctioning immune system. Industrial and research applications, such as the development of novel antimicrobials, and innovative immuno-therapeutics will root the programme in real-world applications.

Microbiology and immunology represent disciplines that are not only fundamental to our understanding of health and disease but are also integral to various industries. There is a growing demand for experts in these fields, driven by an increasing focus on healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and the broader life sciences sector, translating into excellent prospects for our graduates.

Why Microbiology and immunology at Swansea University?

You will benefit from access to the state-of-the-art research facilities at the Medical School, including bioanalytical equipment such as DNA and protein analytical equipment, flow cytometry for cellular characterisation, real time cell metabolism analysis and computer-based image analysers for molecular and cellular studies.

You will also be taught by researchers working in the fields of microbiology, immunology and bioinformatics, providing you with access to real life, working examples of research in practice.

Your Microbiology and immunology experience

You can choose to study Microbiology and Immunology as a:

  • 3-year BSc,
  • 4-year BSc with a year in industry in the form of a placement year,
  • 4-year BSc with a year abroad, or a
  • 4-year MSci with an integrated master’s level qualification

Studying the 3-year BSc, you will undertake a mix of compulsory and optional modules, giving you the flexibility to tailor your degree to your particular interests, career ambitions, or plans for further study. You will also hone your independent research skills by undertaking a 'capstone project' in the field of either microbiology or immunology. This project will be an opportunity for you to apply the entirety of your knowledge and skills, contribute to scientific discoveries and demonstrate your ability to function as active members of the scientific research community.

The 4-year programme, with a Placement year, offers an additional placement year between the second and final year, giving you the opportunity to experience work in industry, and allowing you to build confidence and gain real-world experience.

Adding a year abroad, as part of the 4-year BSc option, allows you to add invaluable international experience to your CV while building intercultural communication skills that will improve your ability to interact with people from a variety of backgrounds.

Our 4-year MSci is an advanced undergraduate degree with an integrated master’s year, with the extra year spent undertaking a research project, allowing you to develop your skills and knowledge.

The curriculum and programmes are designed to prepare students with the skills and attributes needed to become proficient and competent scientists and researchers. Our programmes will enhance your creative problem-solving abilities and encourage innovation in research.

Don't think you meet the entry requirements? Why not consider our BSc or MSci in Microbiology and Immunology with a Foundation Year?

Microbiology and immunology employment opportunities

A degree in microbiology and immunology opens up a range of exciting career opportunities in diverse fields including:

  • Medical Research
  • Pharmaceutical development
  • Biotechnology
  • Biofuels
  • Agriculture
  • Bioinformatics
  • Academia

Modules

For the 3-year BSc, the course structure is as follows:

The first year provides a solid basis for the programme, focusing on fundamental knowledge and core practical skills, whilst introducing you to key concepts in microbiology and immunology .

In your second year, you will delve into more advanced subjects and skills related to Biostatistics, Immunopathology, Virology, and laboratory techniques.

The third year introduces you to advanced topics such as Bioinformatics, Biotechnology, Pandemics and Immunotherapeutics.

If you choose to undertake a year in industry, this will take place between the second and third years of study listed above. If you choose to study the MSci equivalent, you will study the three years above, followed by an additional year at master’s level, consisting of an independent research project and developing your skills in science communication.

If you choose to undertake a year in industry or a year abroad, this will take place between the second and third years of study listed above. If you choose to study the MSci equivalent, you will study the three years above, followed by an additional year at master’s level, consisting of an independent research project and developing your skills in science communication.

Microbiology and Immunology, BSc (Hons)

Microbiology and Immunology, MSci (Hons)

Microbiology and Immunology with a Placement Year, BSc (Hons)

Microbiology and Immunology with a Year Abroad, BSc (Hons)