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Ever wonder how microorganisms affect human, animal and environmental health? The trillions of tiny organisms dwelling around us and within us affect our lives in profound ways. Some are vital to our bodies or food production; others cause destructive diseases. The field of microbiology contributes to biochemistry, cell biology, evolution, genetics, molecular biology, pathogenesis and physiology. The microbiology major prepares students for graduate studies and a variety of health-related careers. Advances in microbiology have had great impact in areas such as agriculture, biotechnology, ecology, medicine and veterinary science.

Major Requirements

You'll begin your study with foundation courses in biological sciences, chemistry, mathematics and physics. At the upper-division level, you'll study advanced general topics in the biological sciences, and you may also choose from such courses as microbial ecology, bacterial physiology and genetics, virology and bacterial diversity. You may choose to pursue an A.B. degree, giving you greater opportunity to choose courses outside your major, or a B.S. degree, providing more rigorous training in biological science.