Microbiology is the part of biology that focuses on researching more about the microscopic organisms surviving around us, like different types of viruses, bacteria, fungi, or algae. Students who are keen on learning about microbes, food production, environment and similar areas, starting the journey with masters in microbiology in UK is the best. Additionally, the MSc Microbiology in the UK will give you flexible employment options in regulatory agencies, businesses, and labs. There is a good job scope in UK, and you will have many opportunities to demonstrate your abilities both during and after your academic career.
There are top MSc microbiology universities in UK that offer top quality education. After completing masters in microbiology in UK, students can work on different job roles and areas including clinical engineering, cellular, biomechanics, etc. In this article, you will find more information about MSc microbiology courses in UK, top universities, job role, etc.
Why Study MSc Microbiology In UK?
UK is considered as one of the ideal destinations for students who are keen to learn about subjects related to biosciences, and microbiology. Students here, are not only assured of top quality education, but get certificate of MSc microbiology with placement in UK.Some other reasons to study masters in microbiology in UK are:
- Top Universities
To pursue microbiology masters in UK, students have good options of choosing among the top ranking universities. You will find the best faculty and facilities in UK universities, which enable students to successfully complete this difficult degree.
- Great Job Scope Ahead
Microbiologists are in great demand in organisations, and this demand is present not only in the UK but also everywhere in the world. Following a Masters in Microbiology in UK, your job prospects will depend on your area of focus, and expertise.
- Scholarships
International students can receive scholarships to pursue postgraduate microbiology courses in UK from the British Council and many other organisations. These grants help in covering cost of the respective course.
Suggested: What can Indian Students Expect While Studying in UK
Top MSc Microbiology Universities in UK
If you are looking for some of the best MSc microbiology universities in UK, then you shall not worry anymore because we have narrowed down the top 5 universities that offer it:
- University of Glasgow
- University of Birmingham
- Queen Mary University of London
- University of Aberdeen
- University of bath
Let’s discuss it in detail:
1. University of Glasgow
The University of Glasgow is the fourth oldest university in the world, and it is a public research university established in 1451. The School of Infection and Immunity offers MSc in microbiology program centred on developing cutting-edge medicines for the treatment of bacterial infections by using a molecular understanding of bacterial pathogenesis.
Students will also get to learn about the significance of animal pathogens, human pathogens that cause community- and hospital-acquired illnesses.
Type |
Public |
QS ranking 2023 |
81 |
QS subject ranking 2022 |
57 |
Program offered |
Masters in Microbiology (1 year) |
Program fees(Annual) |
Approx GBP 25,750 (INR 24,90,959) |
2. University of Birmingham
The University of Birmingham is also a public research university established in 1825. The master's program offered in microbiology is quite famous for providing theoretical and hands-on exposure through technical laboratory work. Students get a complete insight about different areas of microbiology.
Type |
Public |
QS ranking 2023 |
91 |
QS subject ranking 2022 |
142 |
Program offered |
Masters in Microbiology and Infection |
Program fees(Annual) |
Approx- GBP 25,740 (INR 24,89,991) |
3. Queen Mary University of London
With the masters in Microbiology at Queen Mary University of London, you will acquire the cross-disciplinary skills and knowledge required to explain, and apply advanced-level research. This course provides students with a critical understanding of contemporary issues and/or fresh perspectives. Many of the lectures are delivered by speakers who are well-known authorities in their fields who work for the NHS, Public Health England (PHE).
Type |
Public |
QS ranking 2023 |
125 |
QS subject ranking 2022 |
151- 200 |
Program offered |
Masters in Clinical Microbiology ( 1 year) |
Program fees(Annual) |
Approx GBP 25,150 (INR 24,32,917) |
4. University of Aberdeen
Aberdeen University is one of the ancient public research universities founded in 1495. The MSc degree in Microbiology will guide you through a broad curriculum giving you the insight about recent developments in the field. It comprises classes on host-pathogen interactions in infection and disease, regulation of microbial adaptability, applied statistics, and microbiology.
Type |
Public |
QS ranking 2023 |
220 |
QS subject ranking 2022 |
151- 200 |
Program offered |
Masters in Microbiology |
Program fees(annual) |
Approx GBP 11,500 (INR 11,12,467) |
5. University of Bath
The University of Bath is a public research university located in Somerset, United Kingdom. The main campus of the university is located on Claverton Down. The master's degree in microbiology provides students with a broad understanding of the complex biological system and emphasises more focus on the microbe side and developing medicines to fight them.
Type |
Public |
QS ranking 2023 |
179 |
QS subject ranking 2022 |
301-350 |
Program offered |
Masters in Molecular Bioscience (Microbiology) |
Program fees(annual) |
Approx GBP 23,100 (INR 22,34,607) |
Suggested: Top Universities for MS in UK, Scholarships, Job Opportunities & More
Course Curriculum for Master's in Microbiology in UK
The course curriculum for a master's in microbiology in UK takes two years to complete, including four semesters. It would help you design and research various medical devices and medicines that can increase the quality of the pharmaceutical industries and the environment around us. Some of the subjects covered are-
- Advances in molecular microbiology
- Infectious diseases
- Plant infection and immunity
- Genetics and Protein Biology
Suggested: 10 Top Courses In UK For International Students
Eligibility Criteria and Admission Requirements for Masters in Microbiology in UK
Before you decide to apply to a university for enrolment in MSc microbiology courses in UK, there are certain eligibility criteria to look upon. Some of these are-
- Educational Qualification
- English Language Proficiency Test Scores
- Entrance Exam Scores
- Work Experience
- USA Student Visa
- Additional Requirements
Lets check in detail-
1. Educational Qualification
Students need to provide the passing certificate of BSc in Microbiology, Virology, Biomedical Science, and relevant courses with 60-70% from a reputed institute. The GPA should be around 3.0.
2. English Language Proficiency Test Scores
Any course you try to enrol in the UK would require you to pass and show the results of English language tests like TOEFL or IELTS, which are considered compulsory for some universities.
3. Entrance Exam Score
There are some MSC microbiology in UK universities demanding GMAT/GRE scores. However, the score may differ as per the university. The average score required is-
- GMAT- 550 or higher
- GRE- 300 or higher
4. Work Experience
Students with 2-3 years of work experience will get major preference in the admission for master in microbiology in UK.
5. UK Study Visa
Obtaining a student visa for the nation you desire to study in is one of the key requirements for studying abroad, in addition to meeting the admission requirements. The average processing time for a UK student visa is three weeks, though during busy periods it may take longer.
Suggested: What Is the Eligibility For MS in UK for Indian Students 2022?
Documents Required for Masters in Microbiology in UK
Students while applying for masters in microbiology in UK will usually be asked to submit the following documents:
- Valid Passport
- Academic Transcripts
- Updated Resume
- 2 Letter of Recommendation
- SOP
- Funding Proof
- English Language test score (IELTS/TOEFL)
Suggested: Everything You Need to Know about Requirements to Study in UK For International Students
Admission Process in MSc Microbiology in UK Universities
Students looking forward to study MSc microbiology courses in UK need to follow the following admission process-
Below are the steps to follow for admission process:
- Check the official university website to see if you match the eligibility requirements for your desired program.
- Take a look at the important documents and permits that you need to submit along with your application.
- Complete the online application form and pay the application cost.
- After submitting your application, you can log in to the admission portal.
- Meanwhile, you can gather all of the documents needed to apply for a UK study permit.
- If you meet the required needs, the university invites you for the entrance exam.
- The cut-off for the entrance exam is determined by the college administration. If an applicant performs well on the entrance exam and meets the cut-off, the next step is processed.
- Once the university accepts documents and scores, you can get an acceptance letter from the applied university
- After receiving an acceptance letter you can apply for the UK study visa.
Suggested: UK university Admission Process for Undergraduate & Postgraduate Programs
Cost of Studying Masters in Microbiology in UK
Students pursuing MSc in Microbiology in UK need to have complete information on the cost of studying and living in the country.
Tuition Fees
The entire study cost for MSc microbiology in UK universities depends on the college you choose to enrol in. But if you consider the annual average tuition fees, the total cost would be approximately GBP 23,100 (INR 22,34,607).
Living cost
The monthly average cost for an international student living in the UK, depending upon the expenses and way of living, would be approximately GBP 10, 000 (INR 95, 6625.90) yearly.
Facilities |
Cost Per Month (Approx) |
Accommodation |
GBP 450 (INR 43,048.17) |
Food |
GBP 200 (INR 19,132.52) |
Transportation |
GBP 100 (INR 9566.26) |
Study Materials |
GBP 1000 (INR 95,662.59) yearly |
Suggested: What is the Cost to Study Masters in UK?
Scholarships for Master in Microbiology in UK
Availing scholarships could be a turning point for international students seeking a master in microbiology UK from the reputed universities. Some of the scholarships which you can look to apply for are:
Scholarships |
Amount Granted |
The Chevening scholarships |
One-year tuition fees |
Commonwealth scholarships |
Varies |
Royal society grant |
Varies |
Study portal scholarships |
GBP 10,208 (INR 98,7483.89) |
Suggested: Scholarships for MS in UK: Eligibility Criteria, Application Deadlines, Benefits, Duration & More
Career Scope After Completing Masters in Microbiology in UK
Fresh graduates can apply for multiple positions and receive a generous income after completing an MSc in Microbiology UK. Universities also offer MSc Microbiology with placement in UK. The following table lists the basic salary and senior-level salary for certain accounting positions available in the UK:
Job Roles |
Average Salary (annually) |
Academic researchers |
GBP 59,104 (INR 57,1,7500) |
Biomedical scientist |
GBP 54,187 (INR 52,41,848) |
Microbiologist |
GBP 47,953 (INR 46,38,794) |
Pharmacologist |
GBP 55,961 (INR 54,13,458) |
Suggested: What are the Career Opportunities After MS in UK?
These are some things you need to keep in mind before pursuing your master’s degree in microbiology from the UK, which could help you grow in the direction you want yourself to take. If you are looking forward to seek admission in top universities for MSc in microbiology in UK, Yocket professionals will help you in every step.