MSc Infection Biology (with specialisms) at University of Glasgow

Programme overview

The MSc Infection Biology develops knowledge of the molecular mechanisms by which bacteria, viruses and parasites cause disease in humans and domesticated animals, and of the immune responses they trigger. Students specialise in Microbiology (Bacteriology), Parasitology or Virology and complete a research project. It is accredited by the Royal Society of Biology towards Chartered Biologist (CBiol) requirements.

Duration: 12 months full-time | Intake: September | Location: Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom

What you will study

Six taught courses (three compulsory, three optional) plus a project over 11-12 months. Core: Designing a Research Project: Infection Biology; Host-pathogen interactions and immune responses to infection; Research Skills for Immunology and Infection Biology; MSc Bioscience Research Project (Infection Biology). Options include Animal Models of Disease, Emerging viruses and Diagnostic technologies and devices.

Career pathways

About half of MSc students enter research careers, mainly PhD study or research laboratories in clinical, academic or government settings. Others work in the pharmaceutical, diagnostic and biotechnology industries, life sciences companies and food and farming support organisations.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

2.2 Hons (or non-UK equivalent) in Biological Sciences, Biomedical Science, Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Veterinary Biosciences, Genetics, Pharmacology, Microbiology, Virology, Parasitology or Zoology, including at least 2 credit-bearing modules (average grade 2.2 or equivalent) from Microbiology, Immunology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Bacteriology, Parasitology, Virology, Pathogen/Infection Biology, Molecular Genetics or Pharmacology; degrees in Clinical Medicine or Marine Biology may also be accepted; significant relevant work experience may be considered alongside lower qualifications. International applicants from non-majority English-speaking countries: IELTS Academic 6.5 overall with no subtest below 6.0 (TOEFL iBT 92 overall with no subtest below 4.5 for tests from 21 January 2026; PTE Academic test centre 65 overall with no subtest below Reading 60, Listening 60, Speaking 65, Writing 60). International applications for September 2027 entry are accepted in six rounds from 1 October 2026 to 8 July 2027.

Domestic applicants: GBP 12,063 for the whole programme (2027/28). Home & RUK full-time fee for the 12-month MSc. Source

International applicants: GBP 31,515 for the whole programme (2027/28). International & EU full-time fee for the 12-month MSc. £2,000 deposit required for international and EU applicants. Source

Intake: September

Duration: 12 months full-time

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