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The BS program in microbiology combines the study of the branch of biology involving the smallest of living things (bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses) and immunology (the study of all aspects of the immune system). Despite their small size, microbes are fundamental to life on Earth and compose the majority of all Earth's life forms. In addition to their essential contributions to the natural world, microbes have been model experimental subjects due to their impact on human health and ease of manipulation in the laboratory. A significant portion of medical research employs microbiological and immunological methods in order to examine basic genetic and biological phenomena.
This program is available as an accelerated degree program. Students can visit this website to learn more about accelerated degree programs: https://sols.asu.edu/degree-programs/accelerated-bachelor-master-science.
Degree Offered
Microbiology (BS)
Liberal Arts & Sciences, College of
Location
Tempe
Major Map
A major map outlines the degree’s requirements for graduation.
Application Requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements.Freshman
Transfer
International
Readmission
Affording College
Scholarships
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Financial Aid
ASU has many financial aid options. Almost everyone, regardless
of income, can qualify for some form of financial aid. In fact,
more than 70 percent of all ASU students receive some form of
financial assistance every year.
Career Outlook
The microbiology degree program places emphasis on understanding microorganisms and their interrelationships with other organisms in nature and on the influence of microorganisms in biomedicine and biotechnology. Students in the microbiology degree program will study not only the background and current findings in the field of microbiology but also acquire the critical-thinking skills and the hands-on laboratory and field skills required to succeed in science. The major provides excellent training for premedical, predental, preveterinary and prepharmacy students as well as advanced study in microbiology and immunology.
The discipline of microbiology is diverse and the job opportunities for microbiologists are enormous. Graduates with a degree in microbiology have opportunities for employment in:
- government
- hospitals
- industrial laboratories (food, dairy, chemical, pharmaceutical, environmental and biotechnology companies)
- public health laboratories
- research laboratories
Many students are also suitably prepared for admission into graduate school and advanced study in these fields:
- dentistry
- medicine
- pharmacy
- veterinary medicine
Example Careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
| Career | *growth | *median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | 15.2% | $78,240 |
| Clinical Research Coordinators | 9.9% | $118,970 |
| Cytotechnologists | 11.5% | |
| Food Scientists and Technologists | 5.7% | $63,660 |
| Genetic Counselors | 29% | $77,480 |
| Natural Sciences Managers | 9.9% | $118,970 |
| Occupational Health and Safety Technicians | 10.1% | $49,960 |
| Histotechnologists and Histologic Technicians | 11.5% | |
| Water Resource Specialists | 9.9% | $118,970 |
| Medical and Clinical Laboratory Technologists | 11.5% | |
| Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists | 13.4% | $82,090 |
| Microbiologists | 8.2% | $69,960 |
| Molecular and Cellular Biologists | 8% | $76,690 |
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
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