Microbiology

Program Overview

The BSc Microbiology program at Aberystwyth University equips students with a comprehensive understanding of microorganisms, their roles in health, ecosystems, and biotechnological applications. The program emphasizes practical learning, research skills, and career preparation, leading to a range of opportunities in research, healthcare, conservation, and more.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

The BSc Microbiology degree at Aberystwyth University offers a comprehensive exploration of the fascinating world of bacteria, fungi, and viruses. It delves into their roles in infectious diseases affecting humans, animals, and plants, highlighting the crucial impact of microorganisms on all aspects of life. The program emphasizes the development of scientific and analytical skills highly sought after in various professions. It equips students to contribute to solving global challenges like climate change, pollution, and antibiotic resistance.

Outline:

The BSc Microbiology program is structured over three years, with a strong emphasis on practical learning. Students will gain expertise in various techniques across microbial genetics, biochemistry, and propagation. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including:

Year 1:

• Core Modules:
• Cell Biology:
(BR17520, 20 credits) - Introduces the biochemical building blocks of cells, exploring molecular structure and function.
• Ecology and Conservation: (BR19320, 20 credits) - Examines biotic and abiotic interactions on Earth over time, focusing on their impact on present-day flora and fauna.
• Genetics, Evolution and Diversity: (BR17120, 20 credits) - Explores the key principles of genetics and recent advancements in the field.
• Microbial and Plant Diversity: (BR19920, 20 credits) - Investigates the diversity of microbial life and the importance of microorganisms, including pathogens.
• Skills for Biologists: (BR16820, 20 credits) - Develops basic practical skills required for research across biology, fostering essential skills for academic and professional success.
• Optional Modules:
• Biological Chemistry:
(BR17320, 20 credits)
• Disease Diagnosis and Control:
(BR15420, 20 credits)

Year 2:

• Core Modules:
• Environmental Microbiology and Monitoring:
(BR26020, 20 credits) - Focuses on the roles of microbes in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, emphasizing their importance in biogeochemical cycling.
• One Health Microbiology: (BR26520, 20 credits) - Explores the relationship between health and disease across human, animal, insect vector, and environmental interfaces.
• Practical and Professional Skills in Microbiology: (BR24720, 20 credits) - Develops essential skills for a microbiology-related career, including culture-based microbial studies, data interpretation, and societal perspectives on microbiology.
• Research Methods: (BR27520, 20 credits) - Examines the principles of experimental science, preparing students for their dissertation.
• Optional Modules:
• Applied Molecular Biology and Bioinformatics:
(BR20620, 20 credits)
• Cell and Cancer Biology:
(BR25920, 20 credits)
• Immunology:
(BR22220, 20 credits)
• Proteins and Enzymes:
(BR26620, 20 credits)

Year 3:

• Core Modules:
• Microbial Pathogenesis:
(BR33720, 20 credits) - Explores the concept of disease caused by microbial organisms, covering viral, bacterial, fungal, and oomycete pathogens.
• Biotechnology: (BR35520, 20 credits) - Examines the use of organisms or biological material for human benefit, encompassing traditional and modern biotechnology applications.
• Research Project: (BR36440, 40 credits) - Students undertake in-depth research on a topic relevant to their interests, involving laboratory experiments, fieldwork, computer modeling, or literature analysis.
• Optional Modules:
• Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics:
(BR37120, 20 credits)
• Molecular Pharmacology:
(BR36120, 20 credits)
• Terrestrial Ecology Fieldcourse:
(BR36620, 20 credits)
• Veterinary Infectious Diseases:
(BR34120, 20 credits)

Assessment:

Assessment methods vary across modules and include:

• Essays
• Practical exercises
• Oral presentations
• Worksheets
• Reports
• Statistical exercises
• Portfolios
• Wikis
• Magazine articles
• Field notebooks
• Exams

Teaching:

The program utilizes a variety of teaching methods:

• Lectures
• Workshops
• Tutorials
• Practical sessions
The teaching staff consists of PhD-qualified and research-active individuals, with some faculty members having industry backgrounds. Students also have access to research-only staff.

Careers:

Graduates from the BSc Microbiology program are well-prepared for a range of careers, including:

• Research scientists
• Clinical molecular geneticists
• Nature conservationists
• Educators
The program also provides a foundation for further studies in Dentistry and Medicine.

Other:

• The program offers a sister course (C509) with an additional year leading to a Masters qualification.
• Aberystwyth University has farms and woodlands for studying environmental microbes and those impacting animal health.
• The Careers Service offers various work experience opportunities, including the GO Wales and Year in Employment Scheme.

Note:

The module list and descriptions are for the 2024 academic year and may be subject to change.