Microbiology

The microbiology major is structured to teach students about microscopic life, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, algae and other microbes. Students will learn how these microorganisms affect a person’s health, the natural environment and the safety and quality of our food. This major also teaches students about the human body at the cellular level. Typical courses in a microbiology major might include: human & animal virology, immunology, parasitology, microbial genetics, the microbiology of food, microbial ecology and bacterial physiology & diversity. Students in this major can choose to emphasize their studies in areas such as epidemiology, biotechnology and food safety. Students will spend a good deal of time in labs, as microscopes are needed to get up close and personal with microorganisms.

The microbiology major is a good choice for the science-minded individual. At the undergraduate level, microbiology is considered an excellent pre-med major for those headed to medical school to become physicians and surgeons. It is also useful for those who later wish to enter veterinary school. Those who studied microbiology in college have proceeded to successful careers as researchers, lab technicians, forensic scientists and food technologists. Others go on to work with the federal government in agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the Food and Drug Administration and the Department of Agriculture.