Microbiology
Admission Requirements
Ontario Requirements
Out of Province Requirements
International Requirements
Understand the Impact of Microorganisms
Gain a Breadth of Microbiology Knowledge
Study diverse microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi, and understand their relevance in medicine, biotechnology, food production and the environment. Broad training is offered in the areas of cell biology, immunology, biochemistry, molecular biology, genetics, bioinformatics and biotechnology.
Access Top-Tier Research Labs
The Microbiology program is lab-intensive, allowing students to develop hands-on skills that will be beneficial in future scientific careers. Fourth-year students can take research project courses, where they will work in the laboratory of a professor to learn cutting-edge techniques applied to exciting areas in microbiology, such as the human gut microbiome, bacterial antibiotic resistance, virology and host immunity against pathogens.
Gain Hands-on Experience Through Co-op
Students in the co-op program gain valuable work experience while earning their degree. Previous co-op employers include pharmaceutical companies, hospitals, agri-food and supply companies, and government and academic labs.
Why Microbiology?
The impact and importance of microbiology has never been more apparent than it is today. The field has application in a variety of fields, including medicine and human health; the environment and climate change; and agriculture, food and biotechnology. Learn from award-winning faculty making groundbreaking discoveries in antimicrobial resistance, microbiome health, neurodegenerative diseases, food security and sustainability, and genetic engineering, among many other research strengths.
If you're interested in studying Microbiology, you may also be interested in Animal Biology, Ecology, Wildlife Biology and Conservation, Zoology, or other majors.
Gain Valuable Experience Through Co-op
The Microbiology co-op is a five-year program, which includes four work terms, and helps to provide invaluable experience in hands-on scientific settings, providing skills and experience to boost your resume and fast-track your career.
Hear From Microbiology Students and Graduates
What excites me most about my fourth year is the fourth-year research project. You can conduct your own research and ask your own questions. So you get to take all the lab experience that you’ve had in the last couple of years of university, apply it, but then also really tap into your own interests and ask the questions that you want to know the answers to.
The University of Guelph faculty and staff were supportive in my development as a learner and professional. They provided guidance and encouragement to continue my education. This encouragement continues to fuel my underlying desire for lifelong learning.
What Can You Do with a Degree in Microbiology?
Microbiology students learn a broad range of molecular biology, genetics, and bioinformatic skills that are highly sought after by employers in both the public and private sectors. This integrated training in the biological sciences prepares students for a broad range of careers in science and further education.
Here are a few careers our graduates have successfully pursued:
- Research Technician
- Pediatric Gastroenterologist
- Medical Associate
- Research Analyst
- Bioinformatician
- Physician
Scholarships
In 2021, more than $42.7 million in scholarships was awarded to U of G students. Learn more about applications, requirements and available Scholarships.
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