Microbiology, MS
Explore the microscopic world in greater depth and find new ways to transform health, industries, and ecosystems. Our Master of Science in microbiology adds direction to your curiosity as you conduct cutting-edge research, address challenges in the field, and build towards a career of scientific innovation. Learn how you can turn your aspirations into a real roadmap to success.
Program Overview
The Microbiology, MS hones students’ laboratory skills, critical thinking, and in-depth knowledge of microorganisms’ impact on environments, humans, and animals.
This program is a great fit for students who want to pursue research and future career paths in various areas of microbiology, such as microbial ecology, bacteriology, virology, immunology, bioinformatics and more. Students are well-trained technically within the large breadth of topic areas that are essential to microbial research, to prepare you to hit the ground running and make meaningful contributions to research.
Although our program does not have formal concentrations, the Department of Microbiology offers a graduate certificate in cell biology imaging and quantification that can help you enhance your degree.
Cell Biology Imaging and Quantification Graduate Certificate
The Cell Biology Imaging and Quantification Graduate Certificate equips students with knowledge in microscopy and imaging techniques. You’ll learn how to translate data into clear scientific findings, learning specialized knowledge that’ll help your scholarship make a difference.
Why Study Microbiology?
A Master of Science in microbiology means you’ll be working with award-winning faculty in laboratories, courses, and through one-on-one mentorships.
Our faculty are widely known for their international contributions to fields such as microbial genomics, fungal biology, microbial ecology, and more, making them some of the leading researchers in their fields. Plus, through the semesterly Microbiology Seminar Series, you’ll have opportunities to network with professors and researchers from universities across the country.
At UT, our MS in microbiology stands out for its unique blend of experiential learning, hands-on practice, and research-driven, experimental courses, preparing you to make a meaningful impact in whatever your chosen career path.
What Can You Do with an MS in Microbiology After Graduation?
A degree in microbiology from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, comes from a highly regarded program with a strong foundation in hands-on research, as well as support from faculty members greatly proficient in their area of focus. The collaborative approach to experimentation and study that you get from UT’s microbiology program will give you both the education and resources you need to be successful in a field as evolving as this one.
In research, microbiology students thrive as laboratory managers and technicians, drawing on their valuable research experience in the program. The training received by our students positions them well for careers in biotechnology, food microbiology and safety, and industrial positions. Graduates are well-trained for careers in education, through our strong emphasis on scientific communication skills. Students are also well-prepared for careers in public and environmental health where they can apply their analytical and technical skills to solving major global problems.
Graduates can combine their analytical and communication skills in other areas as well. Science writers work news agencies, private charitable groups and the government, and keep up to date on topics within the field. Public policy and regulatory affairs professionals develop regulations and legislation related to biomedical products and healthcare or lab research. Students interested in biosecurity and biosafety are poised to be leaders in their fields given their broad training. The microbiology program will make you ready for whatever area of study you decide to pursue.
Featured Courses
MICR 505 Microbial Cell Biology
Students become well-versed in the foundations of microbial cell structure, genetics and physiology through primary literature.
MICR 540 Genomics and Bioinformatics
Students will learn the fundamentals of a new scientific discipline based on sequencing genomes (entire DNA) of individual organisms. Goals, principles, and types of genome analysis are covered in a traditional lecture course. Computational tools for genome analysis (bioinformatics) are presented in both lecture and hands-on (computer-laboratory) settings.
MICR 590 Introduction to Membrane Biology
This course serves as an introduction to major concepts in membrane biology including structures and classes of lipids, and different approaches to studying membrane biology: genetic model systems, analytical chemistry, biophysical approaches, and computational modeling approaches.
MICR 520 Microbial Pathogenesis
A broad study of the relations between humans and their pathogens including the biochemical, cellular, genetic and evolutionary factors which contribute to microbial pathogenesis.
Complementary Majors, Minors, and Certificates
Looking to enhance your degree? Consider these programs as a complement to your primary major.
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