Program Overview
The Master of Microbiology and Infection (MBiol) at the University of Liverpool is a four-year integrated program providing students with a comprehensive understanding of Microbiology, Infection, and Disease. By combining theoretical knowledge with practical skills, the program develops graduates who are adept in data analysis, research methods, and advanced techniques in life sciences. Students benefit from world-renowned faculty, research-connected teaching, and various career opportunities in academia, healthcare, and industry.
Program Outline
Microbiology and Infection MBiol - University of Liverpool
Degree Overview:
The Master of Microbiology and Infection (MBiol) is a four-year integrated master's degree program. Students first complete the three-year BSc in Microbiology and Infection, and then continue into a fourth year, subject to performance. The program aims to develop practical and theoretical knowledge of Microbiology with a focus on areas relevant to human health and disease. It also aims to develop practical skills in Microbiology, Infection, and Disease, enhance understanding of topical issues, ethical principles, and professionalism in Microbiology & Infection, and develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Outline:
Year One:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Biology core concepts, principles, and fundamentals BIOS101
- Development, function, immunity, infection, and therapeutics BIOS102
- Introductory Practical Skills for Life Sciences BIOS103
- From Individuals to Ecosystem BIOS104
- Study and Communication Skills Tutorials BIOS105
- Applied Practical Research Skills for Life Sciences BIOS106
Year Two:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Genetics, Microbiology & Infection BIOS201
- Intermediary Practical Research Skills for Life Sciences BIOS203
- Academic & professional skills tutorials BIOS205
- Practical Skills in Microbiology, Infection & Disease BIOS206
- The Cellular Basis of Health & Disease BIOS209
- Molecular Microbiology & Therapeutics BIOS218
- Optional Modules (Choose One):
- Parasites, Pathogens and Hosts BIOS211
- Chemistry for Life Sciences BIOS215
- Optional Modules (Choose One):
- Metabolism BIOS212
- Cellular and Systems Physiology BIOS214
- Drug Discovery & Development BIOS216
Year Three:
- Compulsory Modules:
- Research Project BIOS301
- Introduction to the World of Work BIOS302
- Research Methods BIOS303
- Applied Microbiology and Infection BIOS314
- Genomics and Evolution of Microbes BIOS317
- Global Challenges in Infection BIOS319
- Optional Modules (Choose One):
- How do cells make decisions? BIOS331
- Immunology and Veterinary Pathology BIOS335
Year Four:
- Compulsory Modules:
- BIOLOGICAL DATA SKILLS (LIFE707)
- ADVANCED STATISTICS FOR BIOLOGICAL RESEARCH (OFF-CAMPUS) (LIFE607)
- INFORMATICS FOR LIFE SCIENCES (LIFE721)
- RESEARCH PROJECT (LIFE700)
- RESEARCH METHODS AND APPLICATIONS IN BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES (LIFE731)
- RESEARCH METHODS AND APPLICATIONS IN BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES (OFF-CAMPUS) (LIFE631)
- Optional Modules:
- RESEARCH INTERNSHIP (LIFE701)
- CODING FOR LIFE SCIENCES (LIFE733)
- Cellular Biotechnology and Biological Imaging (LIFE749)
- Emerging Infections and Pandemics (LIFE751)
- Immunology (LIFE728)
- Diagnostics, Therapeutics and Vaccines (LIFE732)
- Computational Biology (LIFE752)
- Proteomics Metabolomics and Data Analysis (LIFE754)
- Synthetic Biology and Biotechnology (LIFE756)
Assessment:
Assessment methods vary depending on the module. They include:
- Written data analysis reports
- Open-book exams
- Coursework assessments
- Scientific reports
- Scientific reviews
- Poster presentations
- Reports on emerging pathogens
- Presentations on key factors affecting disease emergence
Teaching:
Teaching methods include:
- Lectures
- Tutorials
- Laboratory practicals
- Dissection classes
- Fieldwork
- Data handling sessions
- Computer workshops
- Student-led activities
- Individual research projects
- Small tutorial or project groups
Careers:
Graduates of the Biosciences program at the University of Liverpool have a wide range of career options, including:
- Postgraduate study (MBiolSci, MSc, MRes, MPhil, or PhD)
- Public sector (research institutes, government departments, the National Health Service, forensic science, and the Environment Agency)
- Commercial sectors (pharmaceutical, food, biotechnology, water, and agriculture industries)
- Teaching profession (after obtaining a postgraduate qualification (PGCE))
- Routes to postgraduate Medicine, Dentistry, or Veterinary Science
Other:
- The program is taught by world-leading academics in the subjects of genomics, infectious diseases, and global challenges in infection.
- Students have the opportunity to take a physical or virtual placement.
- Students can apply for a six-week summer research internship in the UK or overseas or apply to spend time working in industry or in other enterprises in the final year.
- The program is research-connected and uses active learning and authentic assessment methods.
- The University of Liverpool offers a range of scholarships and bursaries to provide tuition fee discounts and help with living expenses.
UK fees (applies to Channel Islands, Isle of Man and Republic of Ireland) Full-time place, per year £9,250 Year in industry fee £1,850 Year abroad fee £1,385 International fees Full-time place, per year £27,200 Year abroad fee £13,600
