Microbiology and Immunology with a Foundation Year

If you’re interested in the study of microbiology and immunology but don’t have the required entry qualifications, or are a mature student returning to education, our Microbiology and Immunology programmes with a Foundation Year could be for you.

The foundation year will introduce you to the key concepts and knowledge in microbiology and immunology that you will need to progress on to the MSci. Following successful completion of the foundation year, with at least a 60% overall average, you will be able to progress to Year 1 of the MSci.

Microbiology is the branch of science that focuses on the study of microorganisms, exploring all forms of microscopic life from bacteria to fungi, protozoa, and even non-living viruses. Alongside this, immunology is the study of the immune system, and how the human body protects itself against these organisms by a number of different pathways and processes.

Our interdisciplinary degrees bring these two areas together, focusing on how they interplay with one another in response to infectious diseases as well as considering disorders that occur as the result of a malfunctioning immune system. Industrial and research applications, such as the development of novel antimicrobials, and innovative immuno-therapeutics will root the programme in real world applications.

Microbiology and immunology represent disciplines that are not only fundamentalto our understanding of health and disease but are also integral to various industries. There is a growing demand for experts in these fields, driven by an increasing focus on healthcare, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and the broader life sciences sector, translating into excellent prospects for our graduates.

You will benefit from access to the state-of-the-art research facilities at the Medical School, including bioanalytical equipment such as DNA and protein analytical equipment, flow cytometry for cellular characterisation, real time cell metabolism analysis and computer-based image analysers for molecular or cellular studies. You will also be taught by researchers working in the fields of microbiology, immunology and bioinformatics, providing you with access to real life, working examples of research in practice.

Our 5-year MSci is an advanced undergraduate degree with an integrated master’s year, with the extra year spent undertaking a research project, allowing you to develop your skills and knowledge.