BS Microbiology at Pennsylvania State University

Programme overview

Microbiology is the science of single cell forms of life and of the response of more complex life forms to their presence and activities. Students in the Microbiology major will complete a comprehensive study of life processes at the molecular and cellular level, with particular emphasis on prokaryotes (bacteria), and use basic and advanced techniques in laboratory methodology. Through advanced course study, the many subdisciplines of microbiology such as molecular genetics, immunology, and virology may be explored more fully.

Faculty: Eberly College of Science | Duration: minimum 121 credits | Study mode: full-time | Location: University Park, PA, United States

What you will study

The degree requires a minimum of 121 credits, including General Education and the requirements for the major. Required courses include Molecular Biology of the Gene, General Biochemistry, Laboratory in Proteins, Nucleic Acids, and Molecular Cloning, Experimental Chemistry II, Organic Chemistry I, Organic Chemistry II.

Career pathways

Penn State students with a BS in Microbiology are prepared for jobs in industry as well as government, medical and university research laboratories. Many students also decide to continue their studies by attending graduate programs or professional schools including medical, dental, business and law school.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

In order to be eligible for entrance to the Microbiology major, a student must have: attained at least a 2.00 cumulative grade-point average and completed and earned a grade of C or better in each of the following courses: CHEM 110 , CHEM 111 , CHEM 112 , MATH 140 .

Undergraduate applications are accepted for Fall, Spring and Summer entry; the application opens August 1 for Fall and Summer and June 1 for Spring.

Early Action: apply by November 1 to receive a decision by December 24. Recommended submission deadline for all applications: December 1. Applicants apply through the MyPennState application or the Common App. A nonrefundable application fee is paid by credit card; fee waivers are available to eligible students.

Apply through the official page: https://admissions.psu.edu/apply/

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