BSc Hons Immunology & Microbiology
ApplyKey facts
- UCAS Code: CC59
- Accreditation: Royal Society of Biology
Flexible degree: flexibility to change to other Biomolecular Science courses throughout your studies
Study with us
- Immunology is the study of how the body defends itself against disease
- Microbiology is the study of the smallest living organisms (micro-organisms or microbes)
- opportunity to choose specific degree combinations will allow you to go into specialist biomedical science areas such as neuroscience, cardiovascular research, immunopharmacology, industrial immunology, drug research, biochemistry, microbiology and bacteriology
Why this course?
Immunology helps us understand how the immune system is tricked into attacking its own tissue, leading to diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes or allergy.
Microbiology is the study of the smallest living organisms (micro-organisms or microbes). Microbes are a major cause of disease in humans but they can also be useful in industrial processes from pollution control to the production of important therapeutic compounds.
The development of both has long been linked with the development of vaccines for smallpox and anthrax by Jenner and Pasteur respectively.
More recently, the application of modern techniques of biology to the immune system has led to a dramatic increase in our understanding of the immune system and its impact on body function, as well as in the control of microbial and other types of disease.
The interface between immunology and microbiology is a very active area for both fundamental research and for the development of new biotechnological products to diagnose or prevent disease.
Modern techniques based on monoclonal antibodies are revolutionising the identification of micro-organisms in the clinical laboratory, as well as in the food industry and agriculture.
What you'll study
Years 1 & 2
Students on all the biosciences degrees study the same classes in the first two years. This means you can defer your ultimate choice of degree until the end of Year 2.
In Year 1, you’ll study classes in cells and their molecules, organisms and diseases and Bio-organic chemistry. These are all underpinned by the ‘Being a Biomolecular Scientist’ class which begins with basic laboratory skills, statistical and data analysis and presentation, report writing, health and safety and ethics.
You also choose 20 credits of elective subjects from across the University.
In Year 2, you’ll gain an introduction to each of the four disciplines: biochemistry, immunology, microbiology and pharmacology again supported by the ‘Being a Biomolecular Scientist’ class which develops various skills gained in Year 1.
Years 3 & 4
You'll specialise in the area in which you plan to graduate. In the Honours year, you’ll carry out a research project in either subject and present a dissertation of your work. This could be lab-based research.
You can also take part in enterprise projects of commercial significance for a pharmaceutical or biotechnology company in the west of Scotland. Student exchange programmes offer the chance to study and take part in lab-based research abroad.
Transfer to the MSci Biochemistry or Immunology may be possible at the end of Year 4, subject to performance.
Accreditation
Accredited by the Royal Society of Biology.
Our department holds a Silver Athena Swan award, recognising our exceptional commitment and excellence in the advancement of gender equality.
Chat to a student ambassador
If you want to know more about what it’s like to be a Science student at the University of Strathclyde, a selection of our current students are here to help!
Our Unibuddy ambassadors can answer all the questions you might have about courses and studying at Strathclyde, along with offering insight into their experiences of life in Glasgow and Scotland.
Course content
In Year 1, you’ll study classes in cells and their molecules, organisms and diseases and Bio-organic chemistry. These are all underpinned by the ‘Being a Biomolecular Scientist’ class which begins with basic laboratory skills, statistical and data analysis and presentation, report writing, health and safety and ethics.
In Year 2, you’ll gain an introduction to each of the four discipline biochemistry, immunology, microbiology and pharmacology again supported by the "Being a Biomolecular Scientist” class which develops various skills gained in Year 1. There’s a strong emphasis on practical laboratory skills and the development of generic skills such as scientific writing and problem-solving.
In Years 3 and 4 you'll take specialist classes in Immunology and Microbiology. You will also undertake a substantial research project in Immunology or Microbiology in Year 4 and present a dissertation of the work.
Semester 1 & 2
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 1 - 40 credits
This module aims to give you:
- the foundation practical skills required for a biological biochemistry
- the foundation practical skills based around 'health and the body'
- foundation presentation skills
Semester 1
Cells & their Molecules - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to:
- provide you with Foundation level knowledge relating to basic functions of cells
- set out the principles of biological action and function that you will encounter through all four years
- expose you to the basic suite of teaching, learning and assessment paradigms used throughout your degree with a particular focus on oral communication and presentation
Semester 2
Organisms & Disease - 20 credits
From this module, you will gain:
- foundation-level knowledge relating to basic evolution, species diversity, development, homeostasis, and infectious disease
- the principles of biological action and function that you will encounter through all four years
- knowledge about methods of teaching, learning and assessment used throughout the degree, with particular focus on teamwork and finding, citing and using information
Bio-Organic Chemistry - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to:
- understand nucleotide/nucleic acid molecular structure, stereochemistry and conformation as the foundation of nucleic acid chemical and biological potential
- learn about amino acid/protein molecular structure, stereochemistry and conformation as the foundation of protein chemical and biological potential
- study monosaccharide/polysaccharide molecular structure, stereochemistry and conformation as the foundation of carbohydrate chemical and biological potential
- understand the chemistry, stereochemistry and biological roles of polyketide/polyisoprene natural products and their biosynthetic origins
Semester 1 & 2
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 2 - 40 credits
The aims of this module are to give you the fundamental:
- practical skills required for a biochemist
- practical skills required for an immunologist
- practical skills required for a microbiologist
- practical skills required for a pharmacologist
- skills in presentation and teamwork
Semester 1
Introduction to Biochemistry - 20 credits
The aims of this module are for you:
- to understand gene structure and function and the regulation of gene expression
- to understand how human genetic variation arises and its uses in medicine and forensics
- to understand the basic structure and function of proteins, lipids and carbohydrates
- to appreciate the key metabolic pathways in the absorptive and post-absorptive states
- to understand the pathways involved in cell growth and cell death
Introduction to Immunology - 20 credits
By studying this module, you'll be able to demonstrate an understanding of:
- how immune cells recognise antigens
- key concepts in induction of acquired immunity
- effector mechanism of the immune system
- helpful immune responses
- harmful immune responses
Semester 2
Introduction to Microbiology - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to help you to:
- understand the fundamental taxonomic grouping and evolutionary relationships of microbes
- appreciate physiological, structural and molecular differences between different microorganisms
- understand the role and control of microorganisms in disease
- learn how organisms adapt to hostile environments and appreciate the biotechnological exploitation of extremophiles
Introduction to Pharmacology - 20 credits
This module aims to develop your understanding of:
- systems biology and homeostasis
- the somatic, autonomic and central nervous systems
- the cardiovascular and respiratory systems
- the hepatic and renal systems
- the endocrine and reproductive systems
Semester 1 & 2
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 3 - 40 credits
The aims of this module are to:
- give you generic practical skills in biomolecular science
- further develop your practical skills in specific biomedical biochemistry, microbiology, immunology, histopathology and serology that align with the module choices of the degree programme
- enhance your report writing and presentation skills
Semester 1
Fundamental Immunology - 20 credits
The aims of this module are:
- to provide you with an understanding of how pathogens are recognised
- to give you an appreciation of how immune cells are activated
- to teach you about the cytotoxic mechanisms used by immune cells
- to demonstrate how the immune system is regulated
- to give you knowledge in what immunological memory is and how it functions
Fundamental Microbiology - 20 Credits
The aims of this module are to:
- understand the basis of gene regulation in microorganisms and how this influence bacterial physiology
- describe the key mechanisms that drive evolution of microorganisms
- demonstrate an understanding of the principles of mathematical modelling in predicting microbial growth and death
- describe the basis of microbial form and function and how bioinformatics are fundamental to microbiology
Semester 2
Biomedical Immunology - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to give you:
- an understanding of Immunodiagnostic: Principles of immunoassays: homogeneous and heterogeneous immunoassays, Examples of clinical immunoassays
- an understanding of hypersensitivity
- an understanding of Immunopathology and Immunity to infections
- an understanding of mucosal immunology
- an understanding of immunopharmacology
Biomedical Microbiology - 20 Credits
The aims of this module are to:
- understand the difference between taxonomic and phylogenetic classification of microorganisms
- gain knowledge on the principles that underpin bacterial, fungal and viral identification
- become familiar with the structure, function and growth characteristics of bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa and apply that knowledge to their role in disease development
- describe the distinguishing features, pathogenic properties, epidemiology, treatment and control of medically important bacteria, viruses, fungi and protozoa
Semester 1 & 2
Being a Biomolecular Scientist 4 - 40 credits
The aims of this module are:
- to give you the opportunity to carry out original research
- to provide you with the skills to critically interpret data and develop conclusions or hypotheses based upon your findings
- to provide you with the skills to analyse and present your data
- to provide knowledge in a key area that is relevant to your career aspirations.
Semester 1
Advanced Microbiology 20 Credits
The aims of this module are to:
- understand how to analyse and interpret the genomes of microorganisms
- understand the mechanisms that permit bacteria to sense and interact with the environment
- understand of the mechanisms of bacterial growth and development
- understanding microbial populations through ‘omic analysis
Semester 2
Advanced Immunology - 20 credits
The aims of this module are to give you:
- an understanding of immune responses that occur against viral infections
- an understanding of immune responses that occurs against bacteria
- an understanding of immune responses that occurs against protozoan parasites
- an understanding of immune responses that occurs against helminth parasites
- an understanding of Immune responses induced by vaccination
Optional modules
Choose one module from the following:
Semester 1
Clinical Immunology - 20 credits
The aims of this module are:
- to give you an understanding of the immune responses associated with transplantation
- to provide you with a knowledge of the immune responses associated with cancer
- to help you to understand the immune responses associated with autoimmunity
- to give you an appreciation of the immune responses associated with allergy
- to teach you about the immune responses associated with immunodeficiency
Semester 2
Clinical Microbiology - 20 Credits
The aims of this module are to:
- understand the principles of epidemiology in infectious diseases
- become familiar with the diagnosis of microbial identification using genotyping and viable and non-viable approaches
- understand the mechanisms of antimicrobial agents and antimicrobial resistance as well as the significance of biofilms in antimicrobial resistance
- recognise the mechanisms and importance of infection control in the immune-compromised host
Assessment
Knowledge and understanding are assessed by written examinations, essays, presentations and computer-aided learning (CAL) exercises and quizzes. These are all available on our virtual learning environment, Myplace.’
Competence is assessed through practical tests, practical write-ups, project reports and CAL exercises and quizzes.
Communication skills are assessed through essays and oral presentations.
Project work is assessed from project reports and oral presentations.
There’s an individual research project in the final year of the course where you’ll demonstrate research skills, approaches and problem-solving.
Learning & teaching
You’ll gain knowledge and understanding through around 240 hours of lectures, including review-type lectures, practical classes, tutorials and computer-aided learning.
To allow you to prepare, class hand-outs are available in advance from Myplace. Hand-outs will also be supported by tasks such as essays, tutorial and workshop presentations.
Quantitative skills are taught by the Department of Maths & Statistics, the Department of Pure & Applied Chemistry as well as the Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy & Biomedical Sciences.
Most laboratory classes, including the chemistry classes in Year 1, include number, numeracy and statistical skills that are used in the Institute. Communication skills are taught throughout the course. Information retrieval, interpretation and research skills are gained through project work which also develops team-working skills.
Entry requirements
Required subjects are shown in brackets.
| Highers |
Year 1 entry: AABB/AAAC (two sciences – Biology/Human Biology B and Chemistry B; Maths and English National 5 B) AABB /AABCC (Biology B, Chemistry B, Maths and English National 5 B) |
|---|---|
| Advanced Highers | Year 2 entry: BB (Chemistry B, Biology/ Human Biology B, plus Year 1 above) |
| A Levels | Standard entry requirements*: Year 1 entry: BBB (two sciences required, at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry; GCSE Chemistry 6/B (if not at A Level); GCSE Maths 6/B, GCSE English Language 6/B or Literature 6/B) Year 2 entry: BBB (Chemistry and Biology, GCSE Maths 6/B, and GCSE English Language 6/B or English Literature 6/B) |
| International Baccalaureate | Standard entry requirements*: Year 1 entry: 30 (Two science subjects at HL5 at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry. Maths SL5 and English SL5) (Chemistry and Biology, one at HL6, the other at HL5. Maths SL5 and English SL5) |
| HNC/HND | Year 1 entry: HNC, Graded Unit B |
| International students | View the entry requirements for your country. |
| Deferred entry | Accepted |
*Standard entry requirements
Offers are made in accordance with specified entry requirements although admission to undergraduate programmes is considered on a competitive basis and entry requirements stated are normally the minimum level required for entry.
Whilst offers are made primarily on the basis of an applicant meeting or exceeding the stated entry criteria, admission to the University is granted on the basis of merit, and the potential to succeed. As such, a range of information is considered in determining suitability.
In exceptional cases, where an applicant does not meet the competitive entry standard, evidence may be sought in the personal statement or reference to account for performance that was affected by exceptional circumstances, and which in the view of the judgement of the selector would give confidence that the applicant is capable of completing the programme of study successfully.
**Minimum entry requirements
Entry requirements
Required subjects are shown in brackets.
| Highers |
Year 1 entry: AABB/AAAC (two sciences – Biology/Human Biology B and Chemistry B; Maths and English National 5 B) ABBB /AABC (Biology B, Chemistry B, Maths and English National 5 B) |
|---|---|
| Advanced Highers | Year 2 entry: BB (Chemistry B, Biology/ Human Biology B, plus Year 1 above) |
| A Levels | Standard entry requirements*: Year 1 entry: BBB (two sciences required, at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry; GCSE Chemistry 6/B (if not at A Level); GCSE Maths 6/B, GCSE English Language 6/B or Literature 6/B) Year 2 entry: BBB (Chemistry and Biology, GCSE Maths 6/B, and GCSE English Language 6/B or English Literature 6/B) |
| International Baccalaureate | Standard entry requirements*: Year 1 entry: 30 (Two science subjects at HL5 at least one of which must be Biology or Chemistry. Maths SL5 and English SL5) (Chemistry and Biology, one at HL6, the other at HL5. Maths SL5 and English SL5) |
| HNC/HND | Year 1 entry: HNC, Graded Unit B |
| International students | View the entry requirements for your country. |
| Deferred entry | Accepted |
*Standard entry requirements
Offers are made in accordance with specified entry requirements although admission to undergraduate programmes is considered on a competitive basis and entry requirements stated are normally the minimum level required for entry.
Whilst offers are made primarily on the basis of an applicant meeting or exceeding the stated entry criteria, admission to the University is granted on the basis of merit, and the potential to succeed. As such, a range of information is considered in determining suitability.
In exceptional cases, where an applicant does not meet the competitive entry standard, evidence may be sought in the personal statement or reference to account for performance that was affected by exceptional circumstances, and which in the view of the judgement of the selector would give confidence that the applicant is capable of completing the programme of study successfully.
**Minimum entry requirements
Contextual Admissions for Widening Access
We want to increase opportunities for people from every background.
Strathclyde selects our students based on merit, potential, and the ability to benefit from the education we offer. We look for more than just your grades. We consider the circumstances of your education and will make lower offers to certain applicants as a result.
University preparation programme for international students
We offer international students (non-UK/Ireland) who do not meet the academic entry requirements for an undergraduate degree at Strathclyde the option of completing an Undergraduate Foundation Programme in Business and Social Sciences at the University of Strathclyde International Study Centre.
Upon successful completion, you can progress to your chosen degree at the University of Strathclyde.
International students
We've a thriving international community with students coming here to study from over 140 countries across the world. Find out all you need to know about studying in Glasgow at Strathclyde and hear from students about their experiences.
Fees & funding
All fees quoted are for full-time courses and per academic year unless stated otherwise.
Fees may be subject to updates to maintain accuracy. Tuition fees will be notified in your offer letter.
All fees are in £ sterling, unless otherwise stated, and may be subject to revision.
Annual revision of fees
Students on programmes of study of more than one year (or studying standalone modules) should be aware that tuition fees are revised annually and may increase in subsequent years of study. Annual increases will generally reflect UK inflation rates and increases to programme delivery costs.
| Scotland | £1,820 Fees for students who meet the relevant residence requirements in Scotland are subject to confirmation by the Scottish Funding Council. Scottish undergraduate students undertaking an exchange for a semester/year will continue to pay their normal tuition fees at Strathclyde and will not be charged fees by the overseas institution. |
|---|---|
| England, Wales & Northern Ireland | £9,250 Assuming no change in fees policy over the period, the total amount payable by undergraduate students will be capped. For students commencing study in 2024/25, this is capped at £27,750 (with the exception of the MPharm and integrated Masters programmes), MPharm students pay £9,250 for each of the four years. Students studying on integrated Masters degree programmes pay an additional £9,250 for the Masters year with the exception of those undertaking a full-year industrial placement where a separate placement fee will apply. |
| Republic of Ireland | If you are an Irish citizen and have been ordinary resident in the Republic of Ireland for the three years prior to the relevant date, and will be coming to Scotland for Educational purposes only, you will meet the criteria of England, Wales & Northern Ireland fee status. For more information and advice on tuition fee status, you can visit the UKCISA - International student advice and guidance - Scotland: fee status webpage. Find out more about the University of Strathclyde's fee assessments process. |
| International | £25,250 |
| University preparation programme fees | International students can find out more about the costs and payments of studying a university preparation programme at the University of Strathclyde International Study Centre. |
| Additional costs | Lab coats and safety goggles:
International students: International students may have associated visa and immigration costs. Please see student visa guidance for more information. |
| Available scholarships | Take a look at our scholarships search for funding opportunities. |
Please note: All fees shown are annual and may be subject to an increase each year. Find out more about fees.
How can I fund my studies?
Students from Scotland
Fees for students who meet the relevant residence requirements in Scotland, you may be able to apply to the Student Award Agency Scotland (SAAS) to have your tuition fees paid by the Scottish government. Scottish students may also be eligible for a bursary and loan to help cover living costs while at University.
For more information on funding your studies have a look at our University Funding page.
Students from England, Wales & Northern Ireland
We have a generous package of bursaries on offer for students from England, Northern Ireland and Wales:
You don’t need to make a separate application for these. When your place is confirmed at Strathclyde, we’ll assess your eligibility. Take a look at our scholarships search for funding opportunities.
International Students
We have a number of scholarships available to international students. Take a look at our scholarship search to find out more.
Glasgow is Scotland's biggest & most cosmopolitan city
Our campus is based right in the very heart of Glasgow. We're in the city centre, next to the Merchant City, both of which are great locations for sightseeing, shopping and socialising alongside your studies.
Studying here has given me the tools I need to go out into the professional world knowing that I was equipped for work.
Careers
You could be involved in the development of drugs, food processing, protecting the environment, fighting disease or even slowing down the ageing process.
Our graduates have found jobs in the pharmaceutical, biotech and agrochemical industries, hospitals and public service laboratories, environmental centres, analytical and forensic science labs, universities, the scientific civil service and teaching at all levels.
Many students also continue onto postgraduate studies and research.
The transferrable skills you gain from this course will not only prepare you for a career in science but also in areas such as finance, management, marketing, sales, business and media.
How much will I earn?
Salary will vary depending on the industry in which you work. The average (median) salary of graduates in full-time work is £20,000.
A Band 6 NHS Healthcare Scientist will start on £26,041 rising to £34,876.
*Information is intended only as a guide and based on NHS pay grades
Apply
Start date:
Immunology & Microbiology (1 year entry)
Start date:
Immunology & Microbiology (2 year entry)
Start date: Sep 2024
Immunology & Microbiology (1 year entry)
Start date: Sep 2024
Immunology & Microbiology (2 year entry)
Start date: Sep 2025
Immunology & Microbiology (1 year entry)
Start date: Sep 2025
Immunology & Microbiology (2 year entry)
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