Join the largest grouping of microbiologists in the UK as you gain theoretical and hands-on laboratory experience in cutting-edge microbiology.
Dive into a field at the forefront of understanding life at a microscopic level. With invaluable expertise, theoretical knowledge and practical lab skills you'll be well-equipped to tackle challenges in healthcare, industry and research.
Through this course, I have broadened my scope of knowledge in molecular aspects of the course and other areas of the subject I found relevant. I have enjoyed the various forms of learning that include physical classes, seminars, workshops and group projects. This offers a wide variety of learning outcomes.
Course structure This course will run over 12 months in a full-time-mode. There is also scope to undertake the programme on a part-time basis. While the exact content may change, here’s what you can expect to study each semester. This is based on a full time Masters course.
Sep – Jan (11 weeks)
The first term will cover the core concepts and skills in microbiology, medical microbiology (practice and applications) and host-microbe interactions. The term starts with a refresher on the fundamentals of molecular and cellular microbiology, with an opportunity to develop key quantitative, analytical and critical analysis skills including important aspects of working in the laboratory and how to handle microorganisms safely.
Jan – May (11 weeks)
In the second term you will learn about microbial physiology and virulence, antimicrobials and resistance and omics of microbes. The Antimicrobials and Resistance module covers historical perspectives of antibiotic discovery and clinical use, the current situation of global antibiotic usage and how misuse and over prescription has lead to the emergence of antibiotic resistance. There is also a focus on modern techniques and next generation of drug discovery.
June- August (11 weeks)
The summer research project will give you direct experience of doing a piece of independent research, providing first-hand experience of how scientific information is acquired and assimilated into the existing body of knowledge by designing and undertaking scientific experiments.
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To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.
English language requirements If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.
For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:
If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term. Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.