Molecular Biosciences (Microbiology) (with Professional Placement) MSc
University of Bath Campus, United Kingdom
Molecular Biosciences (Microbiology) (with Professional Placement) MSc
University of Bath
Biological Sciences / Microbiology
Program Overview: MSc Molecular Biosciences (Microbiology) with Professional Placement
This MSc program provides you with a broad understanding of the molecular basis of biological systems, with a specialist focus on microbes and their role in disease, developing new medicines, improving food biosecurity, and environmental sustainability. Designed in consultation with clinical and industrial partners, the course equips you with the specialist knowledge and practical skills needed for a career in molecular biosciences.
You will be based primarily within the Infection and Immunity research group at Bath, working alongside researchers at the forefront of microbial research. The program includes two research projects conducted in dedicated postgraduate laboratories, along with a Broadening Horizons unit that strengthens your employability through a project addressing global environmental sustainability challenges.
The professional placement component extends the program to two years, giving you invaluable industry or research experience that enhances your career readiness. You will focus on the molecular principles underlying the biology of microorganisms, including their epidemiology, pathogenicity, and virulence in the context of medicine, public health, and agricultural biosecurity.
Key Program Highlights
- Work in dedicated postgraduate labs alongside leading researchers from the Department of Life Sciences and the Milner Centre for Evolution
- Gain hands-on industry experience through a professional placement year integrated into your degree
- Complete two substantial research projects covering specialist microbiology topics and computational analysis of biological datasets
- Strengthen employability through the Broadening Horizons unit, applying skills in entrepreneurship, teaching, media, or public engagement
Curriculum and Modules
The MSc Molecular Biosciences (Microbiology) with Professional Placement delivers taught modules in the first and second semesters, with the summer dedicated to a dissertation research project. The second year is devoted to your professional placement. You should expect to spend approximately 35 to 40 hours per week on structured activities and independent learning.
Explore the molecular principles underlying microbial biology, including bacterial pathogenicity, virulence mechanisms, and host-pathogen interactions relevant to medicine and public health.
Undertake a supervised research project within the Infection and Immunity group, developing practical laboratory skills and the ability to critically analyse research findings.
Complete an extended independent research dissertation during the summer semester, demonstrating your ability to design, execute, and communicate a substantial piece of scientific research.
Address challenges of global environmental sustainability through a project applying skills in entrepreneurship, teaching, media and communication, or public engagement.
Learn to apply computational methods to analyse large biological datasets, answering key questions in microbiology from bacterial epidemiology to microbial evolution.
Elective and Specialisation Options
Admission Requirements
This program is designed for graduates from bioscience, medical, veterinary, or related disciplines who wish to specialise in molecular microbiology. All applications are processed through Uni4Edu, where our team will guide you through each step of the process.
Academic Requirements
- Degree RequirementUndergraduate degree in biosciences, medical, biomedical, veterinary, biotechnology, life sciences, pharmacy, pharmacology, or related subject
- Minimum ClassificationHigh 2:2 honours (or international equivalent); offers may be made on a lower grade with evidence of suitability
- Subject BackgroundStrong foundation in biological or biomedical sciences is essential
- ReferencesTwo academic references supporting your application
- Personal StatementA statement outlining your motivation, relevant experience, and career aspirations in microbiology
English Language Requirements
- IELTS6.5 overall with no less than 6.0 in all components
- TOEFL iBT90 overall with a minimum of 21 in all four components
- PTE Academic62 overall with no less than 59 in any element
Required Documents
Application Deadlines
For personalized admission guidance, document verification, and application support, please contact Uni4Edu
Scholarships and Funding
The University of Bath offers a range of scholarships and funding opportunities for postgraduate students. Uni4Edu can help you identify and apply for funding that matches your profile and eligibility.
Bath Global Excellence Scholarship
GBP 10,000Available to high-achieving international students joining a full-time taught master's course. Up to 250 awards are offered, providing a tuition fee reduction based on academic excellence.
GREAT Scholarships (British Council Partnership)
Minimum GBP 10,000Offered in partnership with the British Council and the GREAT Britain Campaign for students from eligible countries including Nigeria, Pakistan, Greece, and Spain pursuing postgraduate taught courses.
Postgraduate Teaching Assistantship Scholarship
GBP 5,000Open to applicants of all nationalities in the Faculty of Science, awarded on the basis of academic excellence, communication and interpersonal skills, and leadership potential.
For detailed tuition fee information, please contact Uni4Edu — we will guide you through the costs and available funding options for this program.
Career Prospects
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in the rapidly growing fields of microbiology, biotechnology, and biomedical research. The professional placement year provides direct industry experience that significantly enhances your employability and professional network.
Potential Career Roles
Typical Employers
Rankings and Recognition
The University of Bath is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United Kingdom and globally. It is recognised for research excellence, outstanding graduate employability, and a strong reputation among employers worldwide.
| Subject | Ranking Body | Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Biological Sciences | EduRank | #33 in UK |
| Sustainability | QS World Rankings | #92 |
| Chemistry | EduRank | #26 in UK |
| Overall UK Ranking | Complete University Guide | Top 10 |
How to Apply
Applying for this program is easy with Uni4Edu. Our team will guide you through every step of the process — from document preparation to final enrolment.
Contact Uni4Edu
Reach out to our team via email or phone. We will assess your profile and confirm your eligibility for this program.
Prepare Your Documents
Our advisors will provide you with a personalised checklist of required documents and help you prepare your application package.
Submit Your Application
Uni4Edu will submit your application on your behalf and keep you updated on its progress throughout the review period.
Receive Your Offer
Once accepted, we will help you understand your offer, arrange visa support if needed, and guide you through the enrolment process.
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