The major consists of a comprehensive core with a strong biological and physical science foundation combined with select fundamental courses in microbiology, followed by the completion of a number of upper division microbiology courses selected by each student based on their specific interests. The Microbiology major integrates a number of laboratory classes, providing students with a wide variety of hands-on experiences. Students can also choose to do microbiology research in a number of laboratories on campus. Microbiology majors receive excellent training for a variety of professional programs, such as medical, dental, and pharmacy programs, as well as graduate school.

The Microbiology major has a built-in Chemistry minor. Students may also elect to complete one transcript-visible option in Pre-Medicine or Aquatic Microbiology. An option is not required. Options in the MB major require additional credits beyond the basic MB major, although most students can complete the MB degree requirements plus the additional course work for either option in four years. The Pre-Medicine option will help prepare a student for taking the standardized test required for medical school application (MCAT), as well as provide an additional perspective in the humanities that is valued by medical programs. The Aquatic Microbiology option takes advantage of an area of expertise by various researchers at OSU, exposing students to both fundamental concepts as well as unique perspectives related to microbiology in both freshwater and ocean systems.