BSc Microbiology
About this course
BSc in Microbiology, a microbiology degree centred on the study of microscopic organisms including bacteria, fungi and viruses. Core topics include Data Analysis, Research Methods. The three-year curriculum includes options to apply for a professional work placement leading to an accredited degree variant. The first year establishes fundamental concepts through modules such as Introductory Skills in the Molecular Biosciences, Basis of Life, Introduction to Microbiology and Introduction to Genetics. The second year progresses to specialized study with Intermediate Skills in Microbiology, Omics and Big Data Biology, Medical Microbiology and Molecular Virology. The final year involves advanced theoretical and practical study through Advanced Topics in Molecular and Cellular Biology, Advanced Skills for Microbiologists and Advanced Topics in Microbiology 1. Optional modules across the degree span topics in immunology, cell biology, genetics and biotechnology, alongside substantial research project opportunities.
Written by AI from the university's course page and module list. It can get details wrong, so check the official course page before you rely on it.
Entry requirements
A level: AAB BTEC: BTEC Extended Diploma entry requirements: DDM plus A/B in A-level Biology or Chemistry. The preferred BTEC qualification subject is Applied Science (other subjects may be accepted). IB: BSc: 31 overall with 6,6,5 at higher level including Biology or Chemistry and another science or science-related subject.
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What students say
Based on about 14 final-year students who answered (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Teaching on my course: 89%
- Learning opportunities: 94%
- Assessment and feedback: 80%
- Academic support: 89%
- Organisation and management: 93%
- Learning resources: 87%
- Student voice: 86%
Do students stay on the course?
Based on about 15 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Continued on course: 90%
- Left higher education: 15%
What graduates do next
Based on about 8 graduates who answered (a small group: a rough guide only)
- Working: 75%
- Working and studying: 5%
- Further study: 20%
Most common jobs
- Natural and social science professionals: 20%
- Process, plant and machine operatives: 10%
- Managers, directors and senior officials: 10%
- Teaching Professionals: 10%
- Media Professionals: 10%
- Find their work meaningful: 50%
- Feel on track for their future plans: 75%
- Use what they learnt on the course: 40%
Where graduates work (5 years on)
Based on about 45 graduates, across similar courses at this university
- North West: 5%
- Yorkshire and the Humber: 40%
- East Midlands: 5%
- West Midlands: 5%
- East of England: 5%
- London: 15%
- South East: 15%
- South West: 5%
Who gets in
Based on about 15 students who started (a small group: a rough guide only)
- A levels: 100%
Accreditation & quality ratings
- This course is accredited at advanced level by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol). Graduates can apply for membership of the Royal Society of Biology at Member (MRSB) level after two years of practice, rather than the usual three years, due to the significant research experience acquired.
TEF 2023 (whole university): Silver overall, Bronze for student experience, Silver for student outcomes.
Modules
- Introductory Skills in the Molecular Biosciences
- Basis of Life
- Introduction to Microbiology
- Introduction to Genetics
- Introduction to Immunology
- The Diversity of Life
- Living Planet
- Using Biology to Feed the World
- Short Introduction to Human Body Systems
- Intermediate Skills in the Molecular Biosciences
- Intermediate Skills in Microbiology
- Omics and Big Data Biology
- Medical Microbiology
- Molecular Virology
- Discovery Module
- Medical Immunology
- Fundamentals of Cell and Cancer Biology
- Human Populations and Disease
- Bioinformatics for Biologists
- Advanced Topics in Molecular and Cellular Biology
- Advanced Topics in Molecular and Cellular Biology 2
- Advanced Skills for Microbiologists
- Advanced Topics in Microbiology 1
- Molecular and Cellular Biology Research Project
- COVID-19 LAMP Testing Placement
- Biotechnology Research Project
Questions about this course
How much do graduates of BSc Microbiology at University of Leeds earn?
The median salary is £26,500 after 15 months, £35,000 after 3 years, £38,000 after 5 years. After five years the middle half of graduates earn between £30,500 and £50,000. The £38,000 median after five years is £6,000 more than the UK median for Microbiology and cell science.
What do graduates of BSc Microbiology at University of Leeds do next?
100% were in work or further study 15 months after finishing (Graduate Outcomes 2023-24).
Are students happy with the teaching on BSc Microbiology at University of Leeds?
89% of final-year students were positive about the teaching in the National Student Survey 2025-26.
What grades do I need for BSc Microbiology at University of Leeds?
The typical offer is AAB at A level. The average entrant had 152 UCAS points.
Is BSc Microbiology at University of Leeds accredited?
Yes. This course is accredited at advanced level by the Royal Society of Biology for the purpose of meeting in part the academic and experience requirement for the Membership and Chartered Biologist (CBiol). Graduates can apply for membership of the Royal Society of Biology at Member (MRSB) level after two years of practice, rather than the usual three years, due to the significant research experience acquired.
Does BSc Microbiology at University of Leeds include a placement year or year abroad?
The course has an optional year abroad.
How many students continue on BSc Microbiology at University of Leeds?
90% of students continued into their second year, and 15% left higher education.