Infectious Diseases | The University of Edinburgh

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Course summary

Infectious diseases shape our world, representing hugely complex global challenges not only to healthcare, but also economically and societally.

Infectious diseases result from a complex interplay between pathogens and their hosts, for which a wide spectrum of pathogens (viruses, bacteria, nematodes, protozoa, fungi and other agents) cause hundreds of different diseases in humans and animals.

During the programme you will study the main classes of pathogens and how they interact with their hosts to cause disease.

By studying a range of interdisciplinary courses, you will explore how modern and innovative research into host-pathogen interactions, from the molecular to the population level, can lead to improved diagnostics, therapeutics, vaccines and other interventions, so that we can more effectively detect, control and cure infectious diseases.

Programme benefits

You will join an interdisciplinary programme that provides the knowledge, skills, personal and professional development appropriate for globally competitive graduates of our key disciplines.
You will have the opportunity to undertake projects with our leading biomedical researchers addressing major global biomedical challenges.

How to apply

Application codes

Course code:: C590
Institution code:: E56

Open days

The University of Edinburgh - Postgraduate Discovery Day
18 Mar 2026, 09:00
Edinburgh

Historical entry grades data BETA

This section shows the range of grades students (with UK A-Levels or Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diplomas) who received offers were previously accepted with (learn more). It is designed to support your research but does not guarantee whether you will or won't get a place. Admissions teams consider various factors, including interviews, subject requirements, and entrance tests. Check all course entry requirements for eligibility.

Not available

Historical entry grades data is not currently available for The University of Edinburgh - we are working with them to try and make it available soon - learn more.

Student Outcomes

Operated by the Office for Students

50 Employment after 15 months (Most common jobs)

100 Go onto work and study

The number of student respondents and response rates can be important in interpreting the data – it is important to note your experience may be different from theirs. This data will be based on the subject area rather than the specific course. Read more about this data on the Discover Uni website.