Ranking
14th
in UK for Biosciences
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Course overview
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.
Course highlights
Tackling the global challenge of infectious diseases with a degree in MSc Microbiology and Infection.
Set within the context of the Institute of Microbiology and Infection learn from expert researchers who work at the cutting-edge of microbiology research. Bringing together experts in the field, you will become part of the UK’s largest grouping of microbiologists. Develop specialist knowledge in key aspects of bacterial infection and experience working with a range of microorganisms with hands-on laboratory experience.
- Expert Supervision: Get guidance from leading academics throughout your journey, mastering essential techniques and training.
- Personalised Mentorship: Benefit from dedicated academic support for your well-being and academic success.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities: Enjoy access to state-of-the-art resources and labs.
- Join a the UKs largest Microbiology Institute: Become part of the Institute of Microbiology and Infection at Birmingham, the UK’s largest microbiology community.
- Deepen Your Knowledge: Explore fundamental molecular microbiology and tackle the growing challenges of bacterial infectious diseases in healthcare.
- Hands-On Experience: Gain specialist knowledge and practical lab experience in cutting-edge microbiology, paving the way for a career in biomedical science or further postgraduate studies.
- Top 100
in the world for Life Sciences and Medicine.
QS World Rankings 2024
- 14th
in the UK for Biosciences
QS World University Rankings 2024
Course delivery
The taught modules will be delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops and laboratory teaching. The Institute of Microbiology and Infection infrastructure provides high level capabilities for laboratory teaching at module level, while leading research groups offer opportunities for innovative and challenging research project opportunities.
- Taught modules – a combination of lectures, workshops and laboratory teaching.
- Assessments – these will include essays, assessed laboratory notebooks, reports, and group work.
- Research project – leading research groups offer opportunities for innovative and challenging research project opportunities.
Module information
The course comprises of a series of taught core modules and a research project. Each of the 6 taught modules is worth 20 credits with the total taught component being 120 credits. The research project is worth 60 credits, bringing the total credits for the course to 180.
The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.
As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.
2025/26 Session - Full time
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Medical Microbiology (Practice and Applications) | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Antimicrobials and Resistance | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Biosciences Postgraduate Masters Skills Programme | 0 | Full Term |
| LM Core Concepts and Skills in Microbiology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Host-Pathogen Interactions | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Microbial Physiology and Virulence | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Omics of Microbes | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Research Project (M&I) | 60 |
Part-time
Year 1
The following must be taken:
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Medical Microbiology (Practice and Applications) | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Biosciences Postgraduate Masters Skills Programme | 0 | Full Term |
| LM Core Concepts and Skills in Microbiology | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Microbial Physiology and Virulence | 20 | Semester 2 |
Year 2
| Module Title | Credits | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| LM Antimicrobials and Resistance | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Host-Pathogen Interactions | 20 | Semester 1 |
| LM Omics of Microbes | 20 | Semester 2 |
| LM Research Project (M&I) | 60 |
Entry requirements
- 2:1 Honours degree
in Life or Medical Sciences, Physics or Chemistry.
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.
For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:
- TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 Listening, 21 Speaking and 19 in Writing
- Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills
- Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component
- LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 25 in each skill
English Presessional Programmes
Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.
Fees and scholarships
- £11,740
Full-time
- £5,870
Part-time
We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.
The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.
Paying your tuition fees
Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.
Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.
Postgraduate Masters Loan
To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.
Scholarships
To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.
Birmingham Masters Scholarships
We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.
Application process
To apply for a postgraduate programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online.
Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.
- 29 August 2025
Application deadline for UK and non visa requiring applicants. We will close applications as soon as the programme is full. Early applications are encouraged.
How to apply to our taught courses
Find out how to apply to our postgraduate taught programmes. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question about our admissions process, including how to apply, your offer and how to track your application, please visit our admissions portal.
Career opportunities
Gain a solid foundation in microbiology, with job opportunities in the public and private sectors and research settings. With strong theoretical background, hands-on lab experience, and specialized knowledge in bacterial infection, you'll be prepared for careers in healthcare, research alongside hospital and public health labs, biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries. It also sets you up for academic research or a PhD journey.
Careers Network
Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.
Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.