Microbiology MBiol

Program Overview

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This four-year MBiol Microbiology program at Aberystwyth University combines BSc and Masters studies, equipping students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills in microbes, microbial diseases, and healthcare. It fosters key research skills, critical thinking, and problem-solving abilities, preparing graduates for diverse careers in scientific research, healthcare, and other industries. The program is taught in English, emphasizing hands-on training in state-of-the-art facilities and offers opportunities for work experience.

Program Outline

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Aberystwyth University - MBiol Microbiology (C509)

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Degree Overview:

This four-year MBiol Microbiology degree combines a BSc with an extra year of postgraduate study, culminating in a Masters qualification. The program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the fascinating world of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, and viruses, and their roles in infectious diseases, human health, animal health, and plant health. The program emphasizes practical training in microbiological and molecular techniques, preparing students for careers as professional scientists.

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Outline:

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Year 1:

• Core Modules:
• Cell Biology (BR17520): 20 credits
• Ecology and Conservation (BR19320): 20 credits
• Genetics, Evolution and Diversity (BR17120): 20 credits
• Microbial and Plant Diversity (BR19920): 20 credits
• Skills for Biologists (BR16820): 20 credits
• Optional Modules:
• Biological chemistry (BR17320): 20 credits
• Disease Diagnosis and Control (BR15420): 20 credits

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Year 2:

• Core Modules:
• Environmental Microbiology and Monitoring (BR26020): 20 credits
• One Health Microbiology (BR26520): 20 credits
• Practical and Professional Skills in Microbiology (BR24720): 20 credits
• Research Methods (BR27520): 20 credits
• 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

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Year 3:

• Core Modules:
• Biotechnology (BR35520): 20 credits
• Microbial Pathogenesis (BR33720): 20 credits
• Research Project (BR36440): 40 credits
• 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

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Year 4:

• Core Modules:
• Field and Laboratory Techniques (BRM4820): 20 credits
• Frontiers in the Biosciences (BRM4920): 20 credits
• MBiol Research Project (BRM2860): 60 credits
• Research Methods in the Biosciences (BRM6420): 20 credits

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Assessment:

Assessment methods vary across modules and include:

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

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Teaching:

• The program is delivered through a combination of lectures, workshops, tutorials, and practical sessions.
• Teaching staff are experts in their fields and conduct research in all areas of microbiology.
• Students have access to state-of-the-art facilities, including a bio-imaging and microscopy suite, modern laboratories, fermentation facilities, farms, and woodlands for studying environmental microbes and those that impact animal health.

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Careers:

Graduates from this program have successfully pursued careers as:

• Research scientists
• Clinical molecular geneticists
• Nature conservationists
• Educators
Students have also progressed to undertake training in Dentistry and Medicine.

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Other:

• The program emphasizes the development of key skills, including:
• Research and data analysis
• Enhanced mathematics and computing
• Effective problem-solving and creative thinking
• Independent working
• Time management and organizational skills
• Communication skills (written and oral)
• Self-motivation and self-reliance
• Teamwork
• The program offers opportunities for work experience through the Careers Service, GO Wales, and the Year in Employment Scheme.
• The program is designed to provide students with a range of transferable skills applicable in various employment contexts.
• The program is taught in English, but some modules are also available partially or entirely through the medium of Welsh.