Beyond the Classroom: Microbiology
Key Resources
Academic Advisors
Visit the NatSci Advising page for contact information and instructions for scheduling an appointment
Department Website
Visit the department website for important updates and information
Major Requirements
Visit the Office of the Registrar's website for detailed information about requirements
The study of microscopic organisms, including bacteria, archaea, fungi, protozoa, viruses, and single-cellular algae. Microbiologists are interested in how these organisms live, reproduce, and interact with their environments either positively (e.g. probiotics) or negatively (e.g. infectious disease).
Skills and Competencies
- Microbial Analysis & Techniques – Advanced techniques for analyzing microbial life, including culturing, staining, and microscopic examination
- Research Design & Implementation – Apply research techniques in microbiology including designing experiments, collecting data, and interpreting results to contribute to scientific knowledge
- Scientific Analysis – Integrate knowledge in microbiology, chemistry, mathematics, and physics to analyze microbial life and its interactions with the environment
This Major Could Be For You If:
- You are interested in understanding how microorganisms impact health, the environment, and industries like food and pharmaceuticals
- You are looking to develop a strong foundation in microbiology, complemented by advanced coursework in molecular biology, immunology, and microbial genetics
Common Questions
Do I need to pursue a graduate degree to find a job in microbiology?
No. While a graduate degree can open up additional career opportunities, many microbiology graduates find rewarding careers with a bachelor's degree. Jobs in biotechnology, clinical laboratories, environmental companies, and food industries are accessible with an undergraduate degree.
What makes this major unique?
This major provides a foundation in various scientific disciplines while offering specialized training in microbiology. Students can also customize their education by selecting elective courses that further develop their preferred area of expertise.
Skill Development
Building your skills takes exploration and experience. These opportunities below are options you may be interested in. These are ideas to get you started; you have the freedom to find what aligns with your goals.
Research Opportunities
- Consider faculty-directed research or off-campus summer programs
- Connect with the Undergraduate Research Office for assistance
Work-Based Learning
- Develop professional skills through on- or off- campus work or internships with the help of the Career Services Network
- Gain experience through volunteer work via the Center for Community Engaged Learning
Career Growth
- Engage with NatSci’s Career Exploration workshops and resources
Campus Involvement
- Connect with other students in clubs like the Microbiology, Genetics, & Immunology Club
Education Abroad Ideas
Arcadia Research Abroad (Various Locations)
- 6-8 weeks | Summer
- Direct Enroll
Monash University
- 12-15 weeks | Fall/Spring Semester
- Exchange
To get started with Education Abroad and to explore other programs that suit your goals, check out the MSU Education Abroad website or visit the Education Abroad Advising Center.
Career Exploration
Career exploration is all about discovering the paths that align with your interests, personality, lifestyle, values and skills. Remember, your major doesn’t define your career, and the career cluster examples provided are just a starting point—not an exhaustive list. Explore widely, and keep an open mind as you shape your future!
Healthcare & Clinical Research
Careers
- Medical Researcher
- Clinical Microbiologist
- Epidemiologist
- Infectious Disease Specialist
- Clinical Laboratory
- Technician
Key Employers
- Hospitals and healthcare facilities
- Clinical research organizations
- Public health agencies
- Diagnostic laboratories
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Biotechnology firms
Strategies
- Gain experience through coursework, faculty-led research
projects, or work-based learning - Consider joining student chapters of organizations like the American Society for Microbiology and attend relevant industry conferences
- Consider taking specialized coursework in epidemiology,
medical microbiology, and public health
Environmental & Agricultural Microbiology
Careers
- Environmental
- Microbiologist
- Soil Scientist
- Water Quality Analyst
- Agricultural Microbiologist
- Environmental Consultant
Key Employers
- Environmental and pollution control companies
- Government environmental agencies
- Agricultural companies and research institutions
- Water quality testing and management firms
- Non-profit environmental organizations
- Consulting firms
Strategies
- Gain laboratory experience through coursework and faculty-led research projects
- Consider completing coursework focused on environmental science, ecology, and soil science
- Network with professionals in the environmental and agricultural sectors through events and conferences
Biotechnology & Industrial Microbiology
Careers
- Microbiologist
- Quality Control Analyst
- Bioprocessing Technician
- Food Scientist & Technologist
- Microbial Biotechnologist
Key Employers
- Biotechnology companies
- Pharmaceutical manufacturers
- Food and beverage companies
- Industrial fermentation companies
- Cosmetic and personal care product manufacturers
- Chemical companies
Strategies
- Explore opportunities early to build a network of contacts in
the biotechnology and industrial microbiology fields - Gain laboratory experience through coursework and faculty-led research projects
- Seek work experience with biotechnology or industrial companies
Looking for more options?