Microbiology with a Modern Language

Microbiology is the science of the invisible world: the bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, and other microorganisms that are central to disease, to ecosystem function, to biotechnology, and to the cycling of matter and energy through the biosphere. It is a discipline with enormous practical importance, from the development of antibiotics and vaccines to the understanding of infectious disease outbreaks and the industrial uses of microorganisms in food, pharmaceuticals, and environmental management.

At the University of Manchester this programme combines a rigorous microbiology degree with study of a modern language, reflecting the reality that science is an international enterprise and that scientists who can communicate across languages have a real professional advantage. You will study microbial cell biology, virology, bacteriology, mycology, immunology, microbial genetics, and the applications of microbiology in medicine, industry, and the environment. Language study runs alongside the science, developing your proficiency in your chosen language and your awareness of the linguistic and cultural contexts in which scientific collaboration increasingly takes place.

The programme runs over four years full time and includes a foundation year, which provides a thorough grounding in the biological sciences before you move into the main degree. A sandwich year with a work placement is also part of the programme, giving you professional scientific experience before you graduate.

Graduates go on to careers in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, clinical microbiology laboratories, public health agencies, research institutions, environmental consultancy, and science communication. The language element adds a further dimension of professional versatility. Many continue to postgraduate study in microbiology, infectious disease, or biomedical science.