Elective microbiology courses are organized by interest group (cell and molecular biology, immunology and medical microbiology, microbe biology, and microbial biotechnology), with students selecting a set of electives according to their interests. Upon completion of the program, graduates may apply for certification with the National Registry of Microbiologists of the American Society for Microbiology.

Microbiology is the study of the microbes, that is, of the viruses, prokaryotes (bacteria and archaea), and the essentially one-celled eukaryotes (algae, protozoa, fungi).

Study of the multi-cellular parasitic worms of humans and other animals is often included, as well. Moreover, the cell biology of higher plants and animals is also a relevant part of the study material of microbiology, as are the host responses to microbes that cause disease, that is to say, pathogens.

Microbiologists study the structure and function of these organisms and cells, with an eye to their impact on human activities and the environment.

The program of study prepares the student for work in microbiology or for advanced study in microbiology or other biological sciences, as well as serving as the basis for professional studies, such as medicine, dentistry, or forensic or clinical laboratory science. Students study chemistry, biology, physics and mathematics and then proceed to the detailed courses of the program, as given below.

It is worth noting that one of the advantages of this program is an opportunity to participate in an on-going research project that contributes to the student’s graduation requirements.