MSci Microbiology at Queen's University Belfast

Programme overview

Microbiology is the study of bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses, central to the environment, agriculture and food, biomedical sciences and biotechnology. The degree is closely linked to the Institute for Global Food Security, is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology and follows the National Subject Profile for Microbiology. The four-year MSci extends the BSc with an additional year; transfer between BSc and MSci may be possible at the end of Stage 2.

What you will study

Stage 1 core modules: World of Microorganisms, Genetics and the Molecular Toolbox, Molecular Basis of Life and Fundamentals of Microbiology (20 credits each), with optional modules including Biodiversity, Environmental Sciences, Environmental Biology, Fundamentals of Chemistry and organic and bioorganic chemistry. The programme runs over four years.

Career pathways

Graduates work across biomedical sciences, biotechnology, environmental science, agriculture and food; past students have gained placements with Northern Ireland Water, the Northern Ireland Environment Agency, the NHS, Norbrook Laboratories, Randox Laboratories, the Almac Group and Moy Park. Further study through Masters and research degrees is also open to graduates.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A-level: AAB including Biology and at least one from Chemistry (preferred), Geography, Mathematics or Physics, plus GCSE Chemistry B/6 or Double Award Science BB/6,6, plus GCSE Mathematics C/4; OR AAB including Double Award Applied Science or Double Award Life and Health Sciences plus GCSE Biology C/4 and Chemistry B/6 (or Double Award Science BB), plus GCSE Mathematics C/4; OR AAA including Biology plus the same GCSE requirements. A maximum of one BTEC/OCR Single Award or AQA Extended Certificate is accepted (Distinction* equated to A, Distinction to B) but not in lieu of A-level Biology or Chemistry. IB Diploma: 34 points including 6,6,5 at Higher Level including Biology and Chemistry (preferred), Mathematics, Physics or Geography; OR 36 points including 6,6,6 at Higher Level including Biology; plus GCSE Chemistry B/6 and Mathematics C/4 (or Standard Level 5 in Chemistry and 4 in Mathematics). Irish Leaving Certificate: H2H3H3H3H3H3 including H2 and H3 in Biology and one of Chemistry (preferred), Geography, Mathematics or Physics; OR H2H2H3H3H3H3 including H2 in Biology. Access courses are not considered for MSci. Graduates: minimum 2:2 Honours degree provided subject requirements are met. Applicants not eligible for the MSci are automatically considered for the BSc. IELTS 6.5 overall with no component below 5.5 for international applicants. All applicants must have GCSE English Language grade C/4 or an equivalent qualification acceptable to the University. Applicants are not normally asked to attend interview.

Domestic applicants: GBP 4,985 a year (2026/27). NI/ROI residency, full-time undergraduate tuition; 2026/27 rate Source

International applicants: GBP 28,500 a year. International and EU Other rate for 2027/28 entry Source

Intake: September 2027

Duration: 4 years full-time

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