Manchester Metropolitan University campus

STEM

BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology at Manchester Metropolitan University

Manchester Metropolitan University, United Kingdom

Programme overview

Explore the microscopic world that underpins all life with a degree designed to bring together scientific foundations with real‑world application. Our BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology has a strong focus on environmental, industrial, clinical and research uses of microbiology, supported by hands‑on experience with advanced technologies, such as next‑generation DNA sequencing and biotechnology. Throughout this course, you’ll build a deep understanding of how biomolecules and microorganisms function while developing specialist skills through practical laboratory work, including time in our industry‑standard Superlab.

Faculty: Faculty of Science and Engineering  |  Department: School of Biological and Chemical Sciences  |  Duration: 3 years full-time; 4 years with placement; 4 years with study abroad  |  Study mode: full-time, placement year available  |  Intake: September 2027  |  Location: Manchester, England, United Kingdom

What you will study

Our BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology degree gives you a thorough grounding in the science of microorganisms while developing the practical skills needed for modern biological research. You’ll explore both fundamental and applied aspects of the subject, with a strong emphasis on environmental, industrial, clinical and biotechnological applications. Year 1 core: Cells and Microorganisms, Evolution, Exploring Biodiversity, Introduction to Organismal Behaviour. Year 2 core: Applied and Forensic Molecular Biology, Bioengineering and Biotechnology, Microbiology, Professional Skills in Microbiology and Molecular Biology. Year 3 core: Environmental Microbiology and Biotechnology Solutions, Infection, Disease and Bioinformatics, Wildlife Forensics and Population Genetics, Project and Professional Development.

Career pathways

BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Molecular Biology graduates will be prepared for a wide range of careers in the biological, pharmaceutical and agrochemical industries, in medical, public health and environmental services, or in teaching and research. You will be equipped to: Apply your skills to a wide range of careers, including management, local government, teaching and the civil service.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A levels - grades BCC or equivalent, to include grade C or above in Biology or Human Biology (with Pass in Practical Assessment) or two other science A levels (Geography, Environmental Sciences, Chemistry, Physics, Maths) with a grade C or above in both. Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma or OCR Cambridge Technical Extended Diploma – Grade DMM in Applied Science or Grade DDM in Animal Management with a minimum requirement of a merit in the 3 compulsory science units (Animal Breeding and Genetics, Animal Biology, Animal Welfare and Ethics). City and Guilds Extended Diploma in Animal Management – Grade DDM with a minimum requirement of a merit in the 5 compulsory science units: Animal Health and Husbandry, Animal Behaviour and Communication, Biological Systems of Animals, Animal Welfare and Breeding, Wildlife and Ecology Conservation. T Level: Overall grade Merit in Science, Health or Healthcare Science. Access to HE Diploma - Pass overall in Science, Medicine, Dentistry, Pharmacy or Medical Science with a minimum score of 106 UCAS tariff points. IB Diploma - Pass overall with a minimum overall score of 26 or minimum 104 UCAS Tariff points from three Higher Level subjects, to include HL5 in Biology. Other Level 3 qualifications equivalent to GCE A level are also considered. The equivalent of A level grade C in a relevant subject will be required as part of any offer. A maximum of three A level-equivalent qualifications will be accepted towards meeting the UCAS tariff requirement. AS levels, or qualifications equivalent to AS level, are not accepted. The Extended Project qualification (EPQ) may be accepted towards entry, in conjunction with two A level-equivalent qualifications. Please contact the University directly if you are unsure whether you meet the minimum entry requirements for the course. GCSE grade C/4 or above in English Language or Pass in Level 2 Functional Skills English. and GCSE grade C/4 or above in Mathematics or Pass in Level 2 Functional Skills Mathematics. IB: Pass the IB Diploma with minimum 26 points overall or 104 UCAS Tariff points from three Higher Level subjects, including HL5 in Biology. If you plan to meet the Level 2 course requirements through your IB Diploma you will need to achieve Higher Level 4 or Standard Level 5 in English and Higher Level 4 or Standard Level 4 in Mathematics. IELTS: 6.0 with no component below 5.5, taken within two years of course start date.

Domestic applicants: GBP 10,050 a year (2027/28). Standard UK and Channel Islands full-time fee for 2027/28 as stated on the course page Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 3 years full-time; 4 years with placement; 4 years with study abroad

Apply through the official page: https://www.ucas.com

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