Microbiology (Taught)

This MSc Microbiology has been designed to provide you with up-to-date knowledge and extensive practical experience, with a strong focus on laboratory work and molecular and medical aspects of the field.

Why choose this course?

• Its practical focus helps you gain hands-on training in advanced laboratory skills and computational methods, as well as a wide range of highly valued wet lab and data analysis skills.

• It is taught by experts in the subject and benefits from being embedded in a research-active environment.

• You will join a unique student cohort, learning alongside students from all age groups and from a variety of science-based disciplines and academic and professional backgrounds.

What you will learn

This course prepares you to work or further your career in a wide range of jobs across the biosciences sector. You will learn about the molecular basis of all life. Modules also cover a variety of topics in detail including how to study microbes, proteins, DNA and small biomolecules using a range of experimental and computational methods.

How you will learn

This course is available to study full- or part-time with classes taking place in the evening.

Each module includes a mixture of theory and practical classes based in the laboratory or a workstation room. You will then be able to apply your new knowledge and skills completing a novel research project in an area of current microbiology.

Highlights

• Birkbeck offers you state-of-the-art instrumental and computing facilities.

• We work closely with the Institute of Structural and Molecular Biology, a joint initiative with University College London.

• In the 2021 Research Excellence Framework (REF), in a joint submission with UCL, Biological Sciences at Birkbeck were ranked 11th in the UK, with a research environment supporting world-leading and internationally excellent research.

• Birkbeck’s natural science research has played a key role in helping to identify fundamental biological and physical structures and fight disease.

Careers and employability

On graduating successfully from this MSc Microbiology, you will have gained an array of important transferable skills, including in:

• working safely, efficiently and independently in a biological laboratory setting using a range of equipment and instrumentation

• independent problem solving

• scientific reporting

• time organisation and completing projects to deadlines

• analytical skills.

Studying this course will prepare you for further study in the life sciences at PhD level, or a career path in roles in a range of fields and professions including:

• research scientist in a university or industry life sciences setting

• scientific sales

• science writer, scientific communication

• healthcare or education sector.

We offer a comprehensive careers service - Careers and Enterprise - your career partner during your time at Birkbeck and beyond. At every stage of your career journey, we empower you to take ownership of your future, helping you to make the connection between your experience, education and future ambitions.