Program description
Microbiology is the study of microscopic organisms: bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa and algae. Programs provide a comprehensive study of modern microbiology ranging from environmental to medical to molecular microbiology. Many courses include laboratory components to develop skills in microbiological techniques. The Honours and cooperative work-study (co-op) programs provide experience in government, private sector and research laboratories.
Program options
Degree options
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Honours in Microbiology – 4 years
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Honours in Microbiology (Co-op) – 5 years
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Major in Microbiology – 4 years
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, Major in Microbiology (Co-op) – 5 years
B. Sc. Bachelor of Science, General – 3 years
Program options
B.Sc. Joint Honours and Major programs, both with co-op options:
Biochemistry
Biotechnology
Genetics
Interesting courses and unique opportunities
Interesting courses
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Microbial molecular biology and molecular genetics
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Medical microbiology
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Environmental microbiology
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Biochemistry of microorganisms
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Applied microbiology
Co-op options
Cooperative-work study options for Major and Honours Programs
Professional opportunities
- Researcher
- Medical microbiology and public health
- Microbial ecology
- Biotechnology and industrial microbiology
Admission requirements & prerequisites
Direct entry option
- Manitoba high school graduation, with five full credits at the Grade 12 level, in courses designated S, G or U.
- A minimum 85% average over the following, with no less than 60% in each course:
- English 40S
- Pre-Calculus Mathematics 40S (recommended) or Applied Mathematics 40S and
- One of: Biology 40S; Chemistry 40S; Computer Science 40S; or Physics 40S
This entry option is open to high school students or high school graduates who have not completed any university or college courses. Specific program requirements will vary; details of these requirements are available on each program’s application page.
Advanced entry option
24 credit hours in U1 (or an approved bachelors program)
This entry option is open to students who have completed a minimum of 24 credit hours of university level study. Specific program requirements will vary; details of these requirements are available on each program’s application page.
High school prerequisites
High School Prerequisites: Depending on major, may include Biology 40S, Chemistry 40S, Physics 40S, Pre-Calculus Math or Applied Math 40S
Many programs will require or recommend specific high school courses over and above their admission requirements. These high school prerequisites are not always required to enter the program, but they must be completed to enrol in certain university courses within it. If a student does not have a particular prerequisite when they enter the program, they may complete an equivalent upgrading course at university that will satisfy the prerequisite requirement.
More details on admission requirements, application dates and the application process are available on the Faculty of Science apply for admission page.
What is unique about this program at the U of M?
- Only stand-alone microbiology department in Canada
- Strong emphasis on integrating molecular biology, medical, biochemical, environmental and applied aspects of microbiology
- All faculty members have externally-funded research programs, including two with national research chairs
- Research strengths lead to enhanced teaching in current areas of microbiology
- Hands-on research opportunities for students
- Strong links to biochemistry, genetics and biotechnology program
- Excellent undergraduate laboratories – more than half of the microbiology courses include a lab component, for both basic microbiology and advanced courses
- Links to the Canadian Centre for Human and Animal Health (Level 4)
Important links
Faculty of Science
Programs in Science
Microbiology
