Microbiology and Infection MSc

Dive into a field at the forefront of understanding life at a microscopic level. With invaluable expertise, theoretical knowledge and practical lab skills you'll be well-equipped to tackle challenges in healthcare, industry and research.

Course structure

Set within the context of the Institute of Microbiology and Infection learn from expert researchers who work at the cutting-edge of microbiology research. Bringing together experts in the field, you will become part of the UK’s largest grouping of microbiologists. Develop specialist knowledge in key aspects of bacterial infection and experience working with a range of microorganisms with hands-on laboratory experience.

• Expert Supervision: Get guidance from leading academics throughout your journey, mastering essential techniques and training.
• Personalised Mentorship: Benefit from dedicated academic support for your well-being and academic success.
• Cutting-Edge Facilities: Enjoy access to state-of-the-art resources and labs.
• Join a the UKs largest Microbiology Institute: Become part of the Institute of Microbiology and Infection at Birmingham, the UK’s largest microbiology community.
• Deepen Your Knowledge: Explore fundamental molecular microbiology and tackle the growing challenges of bacterial infectious diseases in healthcare.
• Hands-On Experience: Gain specialist knowledge and practical lab experience in cutting-edge microbiology, paving the way for a career in biomedical science or further postgraduate studies.

• Taught modules – a combination of lectures, workshops and laboratory teaching.
• Assessments – these will include essays, assessed laboratory notebooks, reports, and group work.
• Research project – leading research groups offer opportunities for innovative and challenging research project opportunities.

The modules listed for this programme are regularly reviewed to ensure they are up-to-date and informed by the latest research and teaching methods.

Any optional module information listed for this programme is intended to be indicative, and the availability of optional modules may vary from year to year. Where a module is no longer available, we will let you know as soon as we can and help you to make other choices.

2025/26 Session - Full time

The following must be taken:

Part-time

Year 1

The following must be taken:

Year 2

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification.

For this course we require IELTS 6.0 with no less than 5.5 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 80 overall with no less than 19 in Reading, 19 Listening, 21 Speaking and 19 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 64 with no less than 59 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 169, with no less than 162 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 25 in each skill

English Presessional Programmes

Improve your knowledge of spoken and written English in preparation for studying at Birmingham with our pre-sessional English courses. If you have a conditional offer, you can take one of these courses as an alternative to retaking IELTS or other similar qualifications.

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2025 entry are above.

The fees quoted are for one year only. For those studying courses that are longer than one year, tuition fees will also be payable in subsequent years of your programme.

Paying your tuition fees

Tuition fees can either be paid in full or by instalments. You can check whether you are eligible for UK or international fees with our admissions team.

Learn more about postgraduate tuition fees and funding.

Postgraduate Masters Loan

To help with the cost of studies, this loan is available to all UK students. You can use this loan towards fees, maintenance or other costs at your own discretion. It’s available for all full-time, part-time and distance learning Masters programmes, as long as you don’t already have a Masters qualification (or equivalent).If you’re a student from Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland, you can apply for Masters loans from your country’s government.

Scholarships

To help you afford your studies, we’ve put more than £33 million into student support and scholarships. We also offer a range of advice on searching for funding and managing your finances.

Birmingham Masters Scholarships

We want to welcome the brightest talent to our postgraduate community. That’s why our Birmingham Masters Scholarships award £3,000 to more than 300 students each year.

Select whether you are a UK student or an international student for relevant application deadlines.

We have put together some helpful information on the taught programme application process and supporting documents. Please read this information carefully before completing your application.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.