Write all of the introduction content here. Only use NON
FULL-WIDTH block.
Full-Width blocks can be inserted
outside of this block and will wrap around the form. Form settings are located on page settings
(click
“Program” for page
settings in
right-hand sidebar.)
Write your contact information here and insert your embed form code in the Custom HTML block below
Discover Life’s Smallest Forms
The Microbiology, B.A., B.S., studies some of the smallest life forms, such as bacteria, molds, and viruses.
In this program, you will investigate antibiotic resistance, toxic waste cleanup with microorganisms, and vaccine development. You will also prepare for entry-level careers in microbiology, pre-professional programs, and advanced degrees.
Curriculum and Courses
The program in microbiology includes courses in general microbiology, pathogenic (disease-related) microbiology, immunology (dealing with immunity to disease), microbial ecology (environmentally related microbiology), virology, genetics (including recombinant DNA technology), microbial physiology, bioinformatics, chemistry, mathematics, and physics. Laboratories are an essential part of the science courses.
Microbiology, B.S.
Our Bachelor of Science degree is designed to provide more in-depth study than the Bachelor of Arts, particularly in preparation for the pursuit of a graduate degree in microbiology and related fields, and careers in research. As part of this preparation, students are required to conduct independent research leading to public presentation of their results.
Microbiology, B.A.
Our Bachelor of Arts degree is designed to be flexible, and yet provide disciplinary breadth for pre-professional students and students interested in an entry-level career in microbiology, the life or health sciences, or environmental sciences.
In preparation for medical school, Rebecca conducted research, participated in a medical education club, and job-shadowed a physician through a program sponsored by Miami’s Mallory-Wilson Center for Heathcare Education.
Rebecca Wyma ’18
Microbiology, B.A. and B.S. Learning Outcomes
- Molecular Microbiology: the physiology, biochemistry, and genetics of microorganisms, including such topics as structure, function, diversity, metabolism, and the genetics of metabolic regulation
- Microbial Pathogenesis: the immune response and disease-causing microorganisms, including aspects of the humoral, cell-mediated, and non-specific immune responses, as well as the molecular basis for pathogenesis
- Environmental Microbiology: the taxonomic, ecological, and genetic relationships among microorganisms, including such topics as nutrient cycling, microbial diversity, and the biotechnological application of microorganisms to solve environmental problems
- Scientific Method: hypothesis generation and testing, including the development of theoretical and practical skills in the design and execution of experiments
- Scientific Communication: the development and execution of oral and writing skills necessary for effective communication of experimental results, the ability to think critically regarding a discipline topic, and the conveyance of scientific principles to audiences of both scientists and non-scientists.
Research Opportunities
Microbiology faculty are conducting research on microbial pathogenesis, environmental microbiology, molecular microbiology, and more.
Both undergraduate and graduate students may get involved in laboratory research as well, including within Miami’s research facilities:
- The Center for Bioinformatics and Functional Genomics (CBFG)
- The Center for Advanced Microscopy and Imaging (CAMI)
- The Ecology Research Center (ERC)
- Animal Care Facilities
Careers in Microbiology
Students receiving degrees in Microbiology, Medical Laboratory Science, or Public Health are well-prepared for careers in almost any field in medicine and biology, and in every sector of the economy: universities and colleges, schools, hospitals, government agencies, Congress, industry, business, and communications.
These degrees also serve as an excellent stepping stone to medical school and align well with the Premedical Studies co-major.
Career Paths include:
- Infectious Disease
- Technical Sales
- Medical Illustration
- Genetic Engineering
- Scientific Research
- Clinical Microbiology
- Drug Development
- Patent Law
- Bioremediation
- Education
- Public health
- Pollution control
- Immunology
- Quality Control
- Food Technology
- Molecular Biology
- Vaccine Development
- Environmental Health
- Technical Writing
- Bioweapons Defense
Facts and Stats
Your college experience here will be one of the most exciting times of your life. To make sure of this, we’ll provide you with a powerful support system.
First-to-second year retention
Miami University Data
Among Public Universities in the United States for Four-Year Graduation Rate
The Chronicle of Higher Education Almanac
Public university in the U.S. for long-term career success
LinkedIn Best Colleges 2025
Admission and Aid
Explore what it means to be a college student at Miami University in Oxford, Ohio, where students prepare to go anywhere and everywhere. We’ll be here to help every step of the way as you prepare for college admission, enrollment, and success.
Contact Us
Undergraduate Admission
513-529-2531
[email protected]
Department of Microbiology
Becky Balish, Ph.D.
Lead Departmental Advisor
Department of Microbiology
Pearson Hall 60
700 E. High St.
Oxford, OH 45056
[email protected]
513-529-1661