What is Microbiology?

Microbiology is the study of microorganisms including, bacteria, viruses, algae, fungi and protozoa. Microorganisms are most famous for their ability to cause disease, however microorganisms are also vital to agriculture, industry and ecology. In fact, life on Earth could not survive without microorganisms.

Microbiology is quite interdisciplinary, overlapping aspects of several other academic branches such as botany, zoology, physiology, immunology, parasitology, biochemistry, genetics, medicine, pharmacology and medical technology.

In addition to the traditional microorganisms, microbiologists may also study aspects of molecular genetics, cancer, aging, immunodeficiency diseases such as AIDS, autoimmune diseases such as juvenile diabetes, animal and plant cell cultures and microscopy.

Why choose Microbiology at WSU?

• Excellent preparation for work, graduate school or professional school
• Diverse courses with small class sizes
• All courses are taught by professors with Ph.D.s
• Opportunities to work with faculty on research projects
• Learn state of the science laboratory techniques in microbial cultivation, identification, molecular biology and cell culture

What degrees are available? 

Bachelor of Science (BS) in Microbiology

Areas of Emphasis

• General Microbiology
• Applied Microbiology
  • Clinical Microbiology
  • Food Microbiology
  • Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology
  • Environmental Microbiology
• Pre-Professional Tracks
  • Pre-Medical
  • Pre-Dental
  • Pre-Physician's Assistant
  • Pre-Veterinary Medicine

What classes should I expect to take?

A complete list of requirements is available from the microbiology department secretary or any faculty member. However, you can expect to take courses like:

• Principles of Microbiology
• Microbial Physiology
• Microbial Procedures
• Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and Biochemistry
• Microbial Ecology
• Industrial Microbiology and Biotechnology
• Virology
• Immunology
• Genetics
• Medical Microbiology

What are the employment opportunities?

The job market remains consistent and strong for our B.S. graduates. About 95% of the first jobs secured by our alumni are in fields which require microbiology experience. Some examples of the categories of our alumni placement include food industries, health departments, water districts, various governmental agencies, manufacturers of pharmaceuticals or hospital supplies, biological testing laboratories, clinical laboratories, university research assistants and graduate schools.

Starting Salaries

Average starting salaries for laboratory positions begin at $36,000 for bachelor's degree graduates and increase significantly with added education and experiences. For more information, go to Career Services.

Is there an application deadline?

Although there is no application deadline, we encourage you to apply early and register for classes. Contact the microbiology department for specific information or to schedule an advisement time.

Contact Information

Department of Microbiology phone number
(801) 626-6949
Or e-mail Carrie Minnoch at cminnoch@weber.edu