Applied Microbiology BSc (Hons)

Program Overview

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BSc (Hons) Applied Microbiology

Overview

Develop your specialist knowledge in microbiology and biotechnology to prepare you for work in this dynamic area.

Microbes are everywhere - inside our bodies, in the air we breathe, even in the food we eat. They are so small that millions can fit into the eye of a needle yet without them we couldn’t exist.

Through specialist modules in medical, food and environmental biotechnology, you'll explore how we exploit the diversity of microorganisms in the production of drugs and food and the decontamination of polluted environments.

In second year, students do have the option of undertaking 'Volunteering and Employability'. This can include an element of work placement. This will prepare you for employment in a wide range of occupations, including those requiring specialist knowledge in microbiology and biotechnology.

Mode of Study:

• Full-time (available as part-time)

Duration:

• 4 years

Start date:

• Sep

UCAS code:

• C510

Placement:

• Yes

Study Abroad:

• Yes

Course details

This course provides you with specialist skills in food, medical and environmental microbiology and biotechnology while also giving you a broad understanding of the biological sciences.

You’ll learn how the human immune system responds to invading bacteria and viruses, and how this knowledge is exploited by pharmaceutical industries in the development of drugs, vaccines and diagnostics.

You'll also discover how an understanding of a microbe’s ability to exist in diverse environments leads to applications that benefit humans and the environment. Most modules have laboratory classes giving you the opportunity to study with a hands-on approach.

In the final year of the Honours degree, you will conduct your own project in one of our established and internationally recognised research teams.

Throughout this course you’ll develop transferable skills which will help you compete in the workplace, including problem solving, communication, organisational and presentation skills. You will also gain specialist skills in food, environmental and medical microbiology and biotechnology, in addition to a broad understanding of the biological sciences.

How you’ll be taught

You will learn through a variety of different methods, including lectures, tutorials, field studies and laboratory classes.

More than two-thirds of our permanent academic staff are Fellows of the Higher Education Academy, reflecting their dedication and formal training in teaching undergraduate students. Together with our accreditation by The Royal Society of Biology - which is your assurance of the quality and relevance of our course to the needs of employers - this is your assurance of the up-to-date knowledge of our teaching staff and guarantee of a supportive learning environment.

Assessments

A variety of assessment methods are used, including examination, assignments and practical assessments. These are balanced across the Programme to provide a challenging assessment experience, which allows you to do your best.

Work placement

In second year, students do have the option of undertaking 'Volunteering and Employability'. This can include an element of work placement.

Placement and Study Abroad opportunities are subject to UK and Scottish Government health and travel advice.

Study abroad

Erasmus Programme and International Student Exchange Program opportunities are available in the second and third year of study for one or two trimesters.

Placement and Study Abroad opportunities are subject to UK and Scottish Government health and travel advice.

Popular modules

Year 1

• Foundation in Science
• Life on Earth
• Comparative anatomy and physiology
• Scientific enquiry
• Introductory Microbiology
• Cell biology

Year 2

• Genes and Inheritance
• Biochemistry
• Applied Microbiology
• Symbiosis
• Physiology, Adaptation and Disease
• Option module

Year 3

• Research Methods
• Food Microbiology and Biotechnology
• Immunology
• Infection and Immunity
• Applied and Environmental Microbiology
• Option module

Year 4

• Professional Practice
• Microbial Biotechnology (40 credits)
• Project (60 credits)

Entry requirements

Entry requirements

Our entry requirements indicate both Standard and Minimum qualifications with which we normally accept students. Competition for places varies from year to year and you aren't guaranteed a place if you meet the minimum qualifications.

Year 1

Minimum Year 1

• SQA Higher: BBBB including Human Biology, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.
• Minimum Offer Entry Requirement: BBCC including Human Biology, Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Year 2

Minimum Year 2

• SQA Advanced Higher: BBC to include Biology
• A Level: BBB to include Biology
• HNC: Pass in a related subject with B in the graded unit

Year 3

Minimum Year 3

• HND: Pass in a related subject with Grades BB at SCQF Level 8 in the graded units.

English language

If your first language isn't English, you'll normally need to undertake an approved English language test and our minimum English language requirements will apply.

International students

We welcome applications from students studying a wide range of international qualifications.

Admissions policies

We’re committed to admitting students who have the potential to succeed and benefit from our programmes of study.

Fees & funding

The course fees you'll pay and the funding available to you will depend on a number of factors including your nationality, location, personal circumstances and the course you are studying.

Tuition fees for 2024/25

• Scotland: £1,820
• England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland: £9,250
• Overseas and EU: £19,340

Careers

What can you do with an Applied Microbiology Degree?

By studying Applied Microbiology at Edinburgh Napier University, you will become an expert in microbes and how microbiology can be applied within medical, food, pharmaceutical and environmental biotechnology sectors, including in the production of drugs and food products.

What does a Microbiologist/Biotechnologist do?

A microbiologist specialises in the study of microorganisms, including their structure, function and the impact they have on human health and the environment. Coupled with an understanding of the rapidly-evolving field of biotechnology, industries you could work in within this role are extensive, ranging from agriculture to the food and drink sector, medicine and healthcare, or government and environmental agencies.

Tasks you might carry out within this role include:

• Researching and presenting your findings (in industry or academic institutions)
• Finding treatments for diseases related to microorganisms
• Developing vaccines
• Advising/consulting to protect public health and reduce transmission of viruses and disease
• Working to investigate/optimise the role of microbes in biotechnology applications, developing bioproducts
• Regulatory roles, quality control/quality assurance
• Project management

Program Outline

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Applied Microbiology BSc (Hons) - Edinburgh Napier University

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Degree Overview:

This program provides a comprehensive understanding of microbiology and biotechnology, focusing on its applications in medical, food, and environmental sectors. The program aims to equip students with specialist knowledge and practical skills to excel in this dynamic field.

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Objectives:

• Develop a deep understanding of the diversity of microorganisms and their roles in various environments.
• Explore the applications of microbiology in the production of drugs, food, and the decontamination of polluted environments.
• Gain practical skills in laboratory techniques and data analysis.
• Develop transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and teamwork.
• Prepare students for a wide range of careers in microbiology and biotechnology.

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Outline:

The program is structured over four years, with a focus on providing a broad understanding of biological sciences alongside specialized skills in microbiology and biotechnology.

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Year 1:

• Foundation in Science: Introduces fundamental scientific principles and concepts.
• Life on Earth: Explores the diversity of life on Earth and its evolutionary history.
• Comparative anatomy and physiology: Compares the anatomy and physiology of different organisms.
• Scientific enquiry: Develops critical thinking and research skills.
• Introductory Microbiology: Introduces the basic principles of microbiology.
• Cell biology: Explores the structure and function of cells.

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Year 2:

• Genes and Inheritance: Covers the principles of genetics and inheritance.
• Biochemistry: Explores the chemical processes that occur within living organisms.
• Applied Microbiology: Focuses on the practical applications of microbiology in various industries.
• Symbiosis: Examines the interactions between different organisms.
• Physiology, Adaptation and Disease: Explores the physiological adaptations of organisms and the causes of disease.
• Option module: Students can choose from a range of elective modules to tailor their learning.

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Year 3:

• Research Methods: Develops advanced research skills and methodologies.
• Food Microbiology and Biotechnology: Explores the role of microbes in food production and processing.
• Immunology: Covers the principles of the immune system and its role in disease prevention.
• Infection and Immunity: Examines the mechanisms of infection and the body's immune response.
• Applied and Environmental Microbiology: Focuses on the applications of microbiology in environmental protection and remediation.
• Option module: Students can choose from a range of elective modules to tailor their learning.

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Year 4:

• Professional Practice: Develops professional skills and prepares students for the workplace.
• Microbial Biotechnology (40 credits): Explores the use of microbes in biotechnology applications.
• Project (60 credits): Students undertake an independent research project in a chosen area of microbiology.

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Assessment:

The program utilizes a variety of assessment methods, including:

• Examinations: Written assessments to evaluate theoretical knowledge.
• Assignments: Written reports, essays, and presentations to demonstrate understanding and critical thinking.
• Practical assessments: Laboratory experiments and fieldwork to assess practical skills and data analysis.

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Teaching:

• Lectures: Provide a structured overview of key concepts and theories.
• Field studies: Provide hands-on experience in real-world settings.
• Laboratory classes: Allow students to develop practical skills and apply theoretical knowledge.

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Faculty:

• The program is taught by experienced and qualified academics with expertise in microbiology and biotechnology.
• Many faculty members are Fellows of the Higher Education Academy, demonstrating their commitment to teaching excellence.

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Careers:

• Potential career paths:
• Microbiologist
• Biotechnologist
• Research Scientist
• Quality Control Specialist
• Food Scientist
• Environmental Scientist
• Healthcare Professional
• Educator
• Consultant
• Opportunities:
• Industry: Food and drink, pharmaceuticals, fuels/biofuels, water, biotechnology, healthcare.
• Research: Academic institutions, government agencies.
• Non-lab positions: Sales and marketing, education, communications, policy-informing roles, consultancy.
• Outcomes:
• Graduates are equipped with the knowledge and skills to succeed in a wide range of careers in microbiology and biotechnology.

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Other:

• The program is accredited by The Royal Society of Biology, ensuring its quality and relevance to the needs of employers.
• Students have the option of undertaking a work placement in their second year.
• The program is available as part-time study.

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For students from Scotland: 2024/25 - £1,820 2025/26 - tba For students from England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland: 2024/25 - £9,250 2025/26 - tba For Overseas and EU Students: 2024/25 - £19,340 2025/26 - tba

• Students from England, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland will be invoiced the tuition fees for 3 years of their 4 years of study.
• The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries.
• EU nationals commencing their studies from 1 August 2021 will be charged the Overseas fee rate.
The University offers a range of attractive Tuition Fee bursaries to students resident in specific countries.