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What is Medical Microbiology and Bacteriology?

Medical Microbiology and Bacteriology are exciting fields of study that is rapidly growing around the globe.  Medical Microbiology is a field of study within medical science focused on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of infectious diseases.

Medical Microbiology specialists understand there are four different types of microorganisms that lead to infectious disease that include: 1) viruses, 2) parasites, 3) bacteria, and 4) fungi.  From academics to practicum, medical microbiologists study pathogen growth, mechanisms of infection, and transmission mode(s).

Bacteriology is a defined subset of microbiology whereby specialists study, identify, classify, and characterize bacteria.  A bacteriologist who studies bacteria, fungi, viruses, and protozoa have crept into the world of microbiology and blurred the known definition of bacteriology.

Career Summary

MEDIAN SALARY

$76,850

PERCENT ABOVE NATIONAL
INCOME AVERAGE

51.77%

TOTAL SECTOR EMPLOYMENT

21,670

Degree Median Salary vs Adjacent Degree Types

Source: BLS, US Census, and IPEDS

2024 Best Medical Microbiology and Bacteriology Degree

Established in 1636, Harvard University is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States with over 20,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, the university is among the prestigious research universities in the world dedicated to excellence in teaching, learning, and research.

Using classical and modern approaches, the Graduate Program in Bacteriology (GPiB) at Harvard School of Public Health teaches students to identify and address issues in microbiology. The program focuses on practical skills, scientific knowledge, and professional networking to prepare students for both scientific and biomedical careers. The main courses involved in GPiB are Molecular Biology of the Bacterial Cell and Mechanisms of Bacterial Pathogenesis and Host Immune Response aside from training in biostatistics, manipulation of genomic datasets, and quantitative image analysis. Visit bacteriology.hms.harvard.edu to access the curriculum.

Acceptance Rate

4.64

Student to Faculty Ratio

7:1

Yale University, located in New Haven, Connecticut, is one of the oldest research universities in the United States. Founded as a Collegiate School in 1701, the university is devoted to expanding and sharing knowledge to its local and international students, inspiring innovation, and preserving cultural and scientific information for the next generations.

At Yale, the bacteriology degree in its Biological and Biomedical Sciences program is an interdisciplinary and individualized education in modern microbiology with specializations in areas such as bacteriology, virology, microbial genetics, ecology, evolution, and physiology. The program aims to prepare students for successful careers in research and teaching, having the flexibility to outline a course of study tailored to the student’s background and career goals. For more information, go to medicine.yale.edu.

Acceptance Rate

6.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Columbia University in the City of New York or simply Columbia University is a private Ivy League research university in New York City. Established in 1754, it is the oldest institution of higher learning in the state. Columbia University is one of the global leaders in research and distinctive academic programs for undergraduate and graduate students in different scholarly and professional fields.

Columbia’s Department of Microbiology & Immunology offers a doctoral degree in Bacteriology and Infection where students earn either a Master of Arts or Master of Public Health degree. It is one of the specialized research areas within the Coordinated Doctoral Program in Biomedical Sciences at Columbia University Medical Center. Once accepted into the program, students are given full-tuition scholarships, health services, medical insurance, as well as a stipend for personal use. See the program description at microbiology.columbia.edu.

Acceptance Rate

5.45

Student to Faculty Ratio

6:1

Established in 1789, Georgetown University is the oldest Catholic and Jesuit institution of higher education in the country. Georgetown, a research university located in Washington, District of Columbia, has a forward-looking, diverse community with a strong commitment to social justice and the common good. 

The Master of Science in Microbiology and Immunology at Georgetown Department of Microbiology and Immunology is a program offered full-time or part-time that can be completed in 2 to 3 semesters. It is designed to thoroughly immerse students in infectious diseases, the pathogens responsible and their mechanisms of pathogenesis, immunological responses of the human host, and current issues in understanding microbial diseases. Students can also collaborate with the faculty in ongoing research projects. To view the curriculum, go to microbiology.georgetown.edu.

Acceptance Rate

14.36

Student to Faculty Ratio

11:1

Cornell University, founded in 1865, is a privately endowed Ivy League research university located in Ithaca, New York. With nearly 24,000 students, the university intends to teach its students and make contributions in all fields of knowledge, from the humanities to the sciences. As a research university, Cornell emphasizes free and open inquiry, purposeful discovery, and exploration across boundaries in its academic programs.  The bacteriology degree at Cornell University is a highly regarded academic program with an exceptional reputation.  The immunology and microbial pathogenesis degree is an exciting, highly competitive program at Cornell designed to blend several components of biology and medicine.  Learn more today by connecting with the admissions team at CU. 

Acceptance Rate

10.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

9:1

Considered the flagship institution of the University of North Carolina system, The University of North Carolina (UNC) at Chapel Hill is a public research university offering an academic experience equivalent to an Ivy League university. Through its innovative program, students’ learning is enriched by connecting and collaborating with different institutions globally.

The Ph.D. Bacteriology at UNC School of Medicine at Chapel Hill gives in-depth instruction on different areas such as immunobiology, virology, advanced molecular biology, microbial pathogenesis, and medical microbiology. Students are required to meet with a graduate student advisor to create a program of study fit for their needs and goals. There are also several mandatory seminars to students that can provide multiple insights and opportunities for learning and experience. Check med.unc.edu to see the full program description.

Acceptance Rate

23.94

Student to Faculty Ratio

15:1

University of Florida (UF), recognized as one of the top universities in the country,  is a public land-grant research university based in Gainesville, Florida. The university houses more than 200 research, service, and education centers available for student use to help with their coursework and research work in its journey of creating a better world through research.

Among the eight advanced concentrations leading to a Ph.D. degree of the Graduate Program in Biomedical Sciences, the degree in Bacteriology offered at UF College of Medicine provides a comprehensive curriculum with an emphasis on both the cellular and molecular aspects of the disciplines. The curriculum also includes courses on bacteriology and virology offered by other interrelated departments as well as practical training in different areas of immunology and microbiology. For more details, visit biomed.med.ufl.edu.

Acceptance Rate

22.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Founded in 1965, the University of California - Irvine (UCI) is a public land-grant university in Irvine, California, and the youngest member of the Association of American Universities. The university, with more than 36,000 students and nearly 222 degree programs, is known for its academic achievement, and premier research and innovation, placing them on the list of top universities in the country.

The Bachelor of Science in Bacteriology at UCI is ideal for students who plan to pursue careers in microbiology and immunology. The program provides its graduates with the appropriate tools and training to successfully pursue a career or graduate studies revolving in these disciplines. Other students who wish to have a solid background in microbiology and immunology can also take the interdisciplinary major to excel in their careers in business, law, public and environmental policy, and education. More details can be seen at mbb.bio.uci.edu.

Acceptance Rate

36.58

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

The University of California - Davis (UC Davis) is a public land-grant research university located in Davis, California with over 39,000 undergraduate and graduate students. UC Davis is among the leading universities in the world offering top-ranking programs across the disciplines of veterinary medicine, healthcare, education, and arts.

By strengthening students’ knowledge in foundational courses in biological sciences, chemistry, mathematics, and physics, the Bacteriology degree at UC Davis leads to either an A.B. degree to give greater opportunity to choose courses outside the discipline or a B.S. degree to provide more rigorous training in the biological sciences. Eventually, students learn advanced general topics in the biological sciences and choose from specialized courses such as microbial ecology, bacterial physiology and genetics, virology, and bacterial diversity. See detailed information at ucdavis.edu.

Acceptance Rate

26.54

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

University of California - Davis (UCD), located in the northern city of Davis, California, offers the largest variety of degree programs among the University of California campuses.  UC Davis's programs are nationally ranked, thanks in part to the universities award-winning faculty.  UC Davis offers more than 180 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and specializations.

The agricultural and environmental sciences programs are particularly strong at UC Davis, and since its inception, it has continued to have a reputation as a good "farming school."

History

UC Davis was conceived in 1905 when Governor George Pardee signed into law an act to establish a university-level farm school of agricultural instruction and research within the University of California system.  In 1908, the first students of the University Farm School arrived in what was then known as "Davisville."

Academics

The academic calendar of University of California, Davis follows the academic quarter format, with fall, winter and spring quarters.  Summer sessions are also offered, and evening classes are offered through UC Davis Extension.

Colleges and Schools

The colleges and professional schools of University of California, Davis offer more than 100 undergraduate degree programs and 80 graduate degree programs.

  • College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences
  • College of Biological Sciences
  • College of Engineering
  • College of Letters and Science
  • The Betty Irene Moore School of Nursing
  • Graduate School of Management
  • School of Education
  • School of Law
  • School of Medicine
  • School of Veterinary Medicine

Student Life

There are many campus activities and resources available for UC Davis students including numerous clubs and organizations, more than one campus student union, the Graduate Student Association, the Cal Aggie Marching Band, music ensembles, dance and athletic groups, and more.  There is student housing, and university dining services include a coffee house and a café and pub. Student amenities include a variety of health services and academic support services.

Fraternities and Sororities

There are many chapters of fraternities and sororities available at UC Davis, and the Student Housing Greek Life Office offers support.  The mission of the Office of Greek Life is to foster a diverse and inclusive Greek community, empower students to develop leadership skills, and build strong relationships between Greek organizations and with the surrounding community.

Athletics

The UC Davis "Aggies" athletics teams compete in many intercollegiate sports including:

Men's Sports:

  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Cross Country
  • Football
  • Golf
  • Soccer
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field
  • Water Polo

Women's Sports:

  • Basketball
  • Cross County
  • Field Hockey
  • Golf
  • Gymnastics
  • Lacrosse
  • Soccer
  • Softball
  • Swimming and Diving
  • Tennis
  • Track & Field
  • Volleyball
  • Water Polo

Community Life

The city of Davis, California offers a full community calendar of activities including "Scrabble at Picnic in the Park," "Spring Plant Sale at the UC Davis Arboretum," as well as art exhibits, musical and dance performances, and more.

Acceptance Rate

38.87

Student to Faculty Ratio

20:1

Recognized as one of the top public universities, the University of Maryland (UMD) - College Park is Maryland’s flagship university founded in 1856. Today, UMD is a global leader in research, entrepreneurship, and innovation by providing excellent education and training to more than 41,000 students. It currently offers numerous undergraduate, master's, and doctoral programs in the areas of agriculture, social sciences, public health, and business.

The Molecular Bactiology major at UMD College Park’s School of Medicine is a graduate program that provides the basic concepts as well as recent advances in the field of molecular and cell biology and genetics. Through this knowledge, students are able to have an in-depth understanding of the different areas in the field such as microbial pathogenesis, inflammation, immune cell function, receptor signaling, genetic manipulation of cell functions, prokaryotic and eukaryotic gene regulation, tumor immunology and immunotherapy, and vaccine development. According to the student’s preference, research areas in the program include Bacteriology, Immunology, Virology, Parasitology, Cell Biology, Microbial Genomics, and Fungal Pathogenesis with a chance to collaborate with the faculty of different departments and institutions within the university such as the Institute of Human Virology, Center for Vaccine Development, and Institute for Genome Science. For more details about the program, go to lifesciences.umaryland.edu.

Acceptance Rate

44.18

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Accommodating over 26,000 students from 50 states and 130 countries, George Washington (GW) University is a private research university in Washington, D.C. that was chartered in 1821. For the past years, the university has been planning to expand and improve its impact by providing world-class faculty, high-quality undergraduate education, distinctive graduate education, and high-impact research to its community.

The online MSHS in Clinical Bacteriology at GWU is one of the few graduate programs in the country that offers intensive clinical microbiology and laboratory science coursework and a hands-on microbiology practicum to be able to master the identification and investigation of human infectious diseases. Aside from these technical skills, students develop the knowledge and practical skills needed to conduct research related to the prevention of the spread of infections that directly contribute to healthier communities. In just 2 years, students are able to complete the program in the comfort of their homes and are then qualified to take the ASCP Board of Certification Technologist in Microbiology examination. Go to healthsciencesprograms.gwu.edu to check the entire program curriculum.

Acceptance Rate

40.84

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

The Stony Brook University (SBU) is considered as one of the flagship universities of the State University of New York system located in Stony Brook, New York. SBU is a public research university founded in 1957 to provide secondary school teachers with knowledge in mathematics and science. At present, the university is recognized as one of the important centers of learning and scholarship in the United States.

Since its founding in 1970, the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at SBU Renaissance School of Medicine has been the home for world-class research programs in microbial pathogenesis, immunology, and cancer biology. The Ph.D. degree in Bacteriology is among the three biomedical graduate programs offered by the department which prepares students to pursue careers in research, teaching, public health, bioscience industry, medicine, patent law, and technology licensing through a highly interactive environment and state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. For more information, visit renaissance.stonybrookmedicine.edu.

Acceptance Rate

44.15

Student to Faculty Ratio

18:1

Founded in 1787, the University of Pittsburgh (Pitt) is a public research university located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. It is recognized as the top public university in the Northeast, offering over 100 undergraduate programs and internship opportunities for its students in the fields of business, arts and sciences, education, international studies, engineering, and health.

Students at Dietrich School of Arts and Sciences at Pitt complete a General Education curriculum to provide basic education beyond training in the biological sciences. The top rated bacteriology major at the Department of Biological Sciences involves courses in chemistry, math, and physics to provide a solid scientific background to maximize student’s understanding of microbiology. The major prepares students for employment in the medical, dental, and other healthcare institutions as well as and for graduate studies in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry, and related disciplines. More details are available at biology.pitt.edu.

Acceptance Rate

56.65

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

As the flagship institution of the University of Minnesota system, the University of Minnesota - Twin Cities is a public land-grant research university in the twin cities of Minneapolis and Saint Paul, Minnesota. With over 50,000 students, the university is one of the five universities in the country with engineering, medical, law, veterinary medicine, and agricultural schools all on one campus. 

Offered by the Department of Microbiology & Immunology at the University of Minnesota, the major in bacteriology prepares students for employment in the government, industrial, and pharmaceutical industries as well as for graduate studies in microbiology and related fields. The program builds a strong foundation on the basics of biology, science and research, calculus, computing and programming, biostatistics, chemistry, and physics before discussing intensive and advanced topics in microbiology and molecular and cellular biology. Visit cbs.umn.edu to know more.

Acceptance Rate

56.74

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Founded in 1956, the University of South Florida (USF) is a preeminent research university located in the heart of Tampa, Florida. With over 180 majors and concentrations across 14 colleges, the university is dedicated to empowering students to build successful careers in business, engineering, arts, and health in order to have impactful contributions to the community.

The Bachelor of Science in Bacteriology degree at USF College of Arts & Sciences introduces the study of bacteria and other microbes at both cellular and molecular level with a focus on disease-causing microbes. The curriculum contains the core and elective requirements in microbiology as well as specialized courses required to qualify for certification by the National Registry of Microbiologists, and the American Society of Microbiology. The program is perfect for students who plan to apply to medical or dental schools or pursue careers as professional microbiologists in the industry and government. For more details, visit ugs.usf.edu.

Acceptance Rate

47.63

Student to Faculty Ratio

22:1

Originally referred to as the State University of New York (SUNY) at Buffalo, the University at Buffalo (UB) is one of the most exceptional public research universities in the country located in Buffalo, New York. The university, founded in 1846 as a private medical college, merged with the SUNY system in 1962 as its flagship institution supporting students with over 500 undergraduate and graduate programs.

Offered by the UB Department of Microbiology and Immunology, the Medical Bacteriology degree is divided into two levels: for students who plan to pursue a career in the healthcare industry and for those who gear towards scientific research. The curriculum includes coursework and laboratory works designed to develop students’ knowledge and skills in the fields of microbiology and immunology. Students may also opt to collaborate with the faculty members in ongoing research projects. The department also offers a 30-credit Master of Science degree and a 72-credit Doctor of Philosophy degree in microbiology and immunology. Get more information at medicine.buffalo.edu.

Acceptance Rate

61.08

Student to Faculty Ratio

13:1

Quinnipiac University is a private, coeducational university located in Hamden, Connecticut. With over 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students, the university offers more than 150 programs in the fields of arts and sciences, business, communication, engineering, law, health sciences, medicine, and nursing.

At Quinnipiac School of Health Sciences, the BS in Bacteriology and Immunology involves the study of how bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens interact with the mechanisms of our immune system. With in-depth knowledge and hands-on laboratory projects related to the biomedical sciences and disease systems, students are trained to develop technical and problem-solving capabilities needed to prepare for careers as a researcher in medical labs, and pharmaceutical, and biotech companies. Access qu.edu to check the program curriculum.

Acceptance Rate

70.12

Student to Faculty Ratio

14:1

Founded in 1824 as the Jefferson Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University (TJU) is a private university based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. TJU officially merged with Philadelphia University in 2017 and continued to carry its original name. The university offers several exceptional programs in the fields of business, design, architecture, engineering, fashion, health, and social sciences.

The Clinical Bacteriology degree at Jefferson College of Health Professions provides students with the flexibility to earn a graduate certificate through an accelerated full-time schedule of 3 semesters or an extended part-time schedule of 5 semesters. Students learn the proper techniques to culture, isolate, and diagnose microorganisms such as bacteria, parasites, and viruses to aid in identifying the cause of diseases and recommending the best course of treatment. Some of the courses in the curriculum are Molecular Biology, Immunology, Pathology, Flow Cytometry, and Microbiology. Students are also required to finish a medical technology practicum. View the program requirements at jefferson.edu.

Acceptance Rate

65.88

Student to Faculty Ratio

12:1

Established in 1878 as the Agricultural and Mechanical College of the State of Mississippi, Mississippi State University (MSU) is a public land-grant research university based in Starkville, Mississippi. It currently houses 12 schools and colleges in the fields of agriculture and life sciences, architecture, art and design, business, education, engineering, and veterinary medicine.

The BS in Microbiology at MSU prepares students for graduate studies as well as professional studies in medical, dental, and veterinary schools. The impacts of microorganisms on our life such as the emergence of deadly infectious diseases and global climate change, advances in biotechnology, and threats of bioterrorism, are all examined throughout the program. Aside from these, students are required to take electives in fine arts, social and behavioral sciences, humanities, foreign language, and public speaking. The program also serves as training for students pursuing a career as biomedical research technicians, science educators, and environmental scientists. Read more at biology.msstate.edu.

Acceptance Rate

53.86

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Established in 1856 as the East Alabama Male College, Auburn University is a public land-grant research university based in Auburn, Alabama. It is also considered as one of the flagship institutions of higher learning in the city, built 20 years after the city’s founding. With over 30,000 undergraduate and graduate students, Auburn is devoted to improving the lives of the citizens of Alabama, the country, and the world through extensive education, life-enhancing research and scholarship, and selfless service.

The Bacteriology major at Auburn’s Department of Biological Sciences is one of the majors offered in its Bachelor of Science in Biological Sciences degree. With the goal of understanding life at the cellular and molecular level, the program provides students with an excellent foundation in the areas of microbiology, cellular and molecular biology with specific concentration options within the major. Students may choose the Microbiology or Cell and Molecular Biology concentration which both prepares them for post-graduate studies or employment in different fields including food, environmental, and health sciences. Check other program details at auburn.edu.

Acceptance Rate

80.67

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

Ranked as one of the most transformative universities, San José State University (SJSU) is a public university headquartered in San José, California. It was established in 1857 as the first State Normal School and became the founding campus of the California State University system. Today, it offers comprehensive undergraduate and graduate education in the fields of engineering, health and human sciences, humanities, and education.

The Bachelor of Science degree in Biological Sciences with a Bacteriology concentration at SJSU is a 4-year program that prepares students for employment in various industries that utilize or detect microorganisms and for graduate studies in applied or medical microbiology. With specialized instruction in basic concepts of microbiology, immunology, microbial physiology, medical microbiology, bacterial genetics, and bacterial diversity, students are able to have an overview of their roles and responsibilities in the industry they wish to work in. Students in the program must also take a minor in chemistry to complete the program requirements and be eligible to apply for certification as Clinical Laboratory Scientists. Learn more about the program requirements at sjsu.edu.

Acceptance Rate

63.57

Student to Faculty Ratio

26:1

Founded in 1794, the University of Tennessee (UT) is a public research university in Knoxville, Tennessee. As the flagship institution of the state, UT Knoxville which houses UT Space Institute supports the community by educating its citizens, enhancing its culture, and making a difference through research and service.

The Biological Sciences program with an emphasis in Bacteriology at UT Knoxville College of Arts and Sciences equips students with the necessary academic and practical skills as well as laboratory experience to continue with graduate studies or to pursue a career in the fields of medicine, agriculture, food, industrial, or pharmaceutics. An Honors option is also offered to students who have completed the required 300-level microbiology courses in the curriculum. Learn more at micro.utk.edu.

Acceptance Rate

78.85

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

As the state’s flagship public research institution, the University of New Hampshire (UNH), located in Durham, New Hampshire, is a top-tier public land-grant research university committed to pursuing research that contributes to the greater good. The university, founded in 1866 as a land grant college, grants associate, bachelor’s, and graduate degrees in the fields of public policy, engineering, liberal arts, agriculture, health, law, and business.

The Medical Bacteriology (BMS:MM) program at UNH Colleges of Life Sciences and Agriculture is a program exploring how microorganisms interact with both humans and animals. With excellent academic training and laboratory work in the areas of microbiology, infectious disease, and public health, graduates are prepared for entry into graduate school, or for successful careers in biotechnology and public health. Students may choose to collaborate with the faculty for independent research experiences, work at the on-campus New Hampshire Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory, or work at biotechnology companies or at the New Hampshire Department of Public Health Laboratories. For more information, visit colsa.unh.edu.

Acceptance Rate

84.03

Student to Faculty Ratio

19:1

The University of Missouri or simply Mizzou, located in Columbia, Missouri, is a public land-grant research university and considered the largest research university in the state. Founded in 1839, it is the flagship institution of the four-campus University of Missouri system. Mizzou values respect, responsibility, discovery, and excellence in the programs and opportunities they offer to students and service to the community.

Offered by the Department of Molecular Microbiology and Immunology and Department of Veterinary Pathobiology at the Mizzou School of Medicine and College of Veterinary Medicine, the interdisciplinary undergraduate degree in Bateriology provides a strong science background in chemistry, physics, biology, and microbiology which can be leveraged for specialization in other fields such as journalism and law. The program is also an excellent option for students preparing to enter professional and graduate schools. Visit missouri.edu to access the program curriculum.

Acceptance Rate

80.73

Student to Faculty Ratio

17:1

Top Degrees in Bacteriology

Graduate and undergraduate students interested in a degree in bacteriology will have a number of degree programs to consider.  In fact there are a number of top ranked universities around the country that offer both undergraduate and graduate degrees in medical microbiology and bacteriology.  With so many options to choose from, how do you know which degree program is best for you?

The key to find the perfect degree program for you is taking the time to establish your personal priorities.  Your priorities include academic goals, career objectives, and work/life balance.  We have created a complete guide to help you establish your priorities on pages 3-4 to make your decision-making process more streamlined.

After establishing your priorities, this will guide you to connect with certain types of schools found below to quickly gather admissions information from the best college programs for you.

Bachelor Degrees in Bacteriology

Bachelor’s degrees have been designed to take 4-years of full time matriculation with some programs offering an accelerated path for qualifying students.  Part-time students should expect the program to take longer as a function of pace and course load.  Degrees in medical microbiology and bacteriology will be conferred as a Bachelor of Science (BS) from most accredited colleges and universities.  Undergraduate degrees combine general education courses such as history, English composition, communications, creative writing, sociology, psychology, economics, and philosophy along with core science courses.

A common set of classes in bacteriology will be found at most schools across the country.  Examples of core science courses include the following:

  • Microbial Physiology
  • Fundamentals of Bacteriology
  • Chemistry & Organic Chemistry
  • Prokaryotic Molecular Genetics
  • Pathogenic Bacteriology & Infectious Diseases
  • Molecular Biology
  • Clinical Microbiology
  • Physiology of Microorganisms
  • Organismal Biology
  • Microbial Evolution & Diversity
  • Cell Biology
  • Water Bacteriology
  • Physics
  • Calculus
  • Ecology
  • Biochemical Methods

Master Degrees in Bacteriology

Master degrees in bacteriology will be conferred as a Master of Science (MS) at most universities given the exceptionally heavy emphasis on math and science.  You can expect the degree program to be 2-3 years in length for full-time students.

After meeting all lower-level requirements, graduate students will take a series of rigorous upper-level classes plus approved electives.  Culmination of the MS degree program is the work to create and complete an approved thesis project.  Graduates of a master’s degree will have the opportunity to launch their career or continue their academics to earn another master’s degree in an adjacent field of study or a PhD in bacteriology.

Doctorate Degree in Bacteriology

The doctorate degree pathway in bacteriology is conferred as PhD.  Earning a PhD in biomedical sciences with typically take three to five-years to complete.  At this level, students will typically be able to customize their coursework to fit their unique interest and passion.

Colleges and universities with PhD programs will offer students a vibrant research environment, use-inspired research, cutting-edge technology, top-tier professors, and collaboration with the brightest minds in the field.  Doctorate students will elect to work for universities to teach and perform academic research or find employment in a private or public institution at various organizational levels.

Employment & Bacteriology Specializations

Bacteriology degrees are highly specialized degrees. Students earning a graduate or undergraduate degree in this field will have a special set of skills. Knowledge learned from college classes can be parlayed into a career in bacteriology or similar vocations. Adjacent careers worth considering may include: college professor, specialized research analyst, toxicologist, genomics, medical scientist, immunologist, biomedical engineer, toxicologist, biotechnologist, virologist, gene therapy, cellular biologist, or food scientist.

Microbiology Career Outlook & Job Growth

Careers in bacteriology are slated to grow at a robust 8% clip over the next decade. Similarly, you can expect rapid growth in college professors and biomedical engineers forecast at 13% and 23% respectively. The largest employers of bacteriologists are currently research organizations, medical manufacturing, colleges, and engineering firms. Median income for bacteriologists is $69,960 a year which is nearly twice the national average. Learn more about this rapidly growing field by searching for colleges below.

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