What is microbiology and immunology?

Microbiology and immunology are two modern biological sciences. Studied together these two fascinating subjects enable us to explore how microbes can be controlled to prevent disease and so much more.

Microbiology is one of the fastest developing fields of research in biology. Some examples of what microbiologists do include manipulating bacteria to produce useful products such as human insulin, and using other microbes that naturally feed on pollutants to clean up polluted water bodies.

Immunology explores the physiological functioning of the immune system in states of both health and disease as well as malfunctions of the immune system in immunological disorders like immune deficiency and transplant rejection.

Course overview

Microbiology and Immunology at Keele is designed to help you develop a deep understanding of core molecular biology and biological processes, by focusing on two complementary areas of contemporary bioscience. Our comprehensive laboratory programme covers a diverse range of modern biochemical and molecular techniques designed to train you in the skills needed for a career in the field. The programme also encourages you to develop skills in experimental design through enquiry-based learning and will ensure you acquire both independent and team-based skills.

In microbiology you will study the biology, biochemistry and physiology of viruses and microorganisms. You will examine bacteria, fungi and parasites, with a particular emphasis on host-pathogen interactions, the diseases these can cause, the development of novel diagnostic and therapeutic approaches, as well as their wider application in biotechnology and their critical roles in global ecosystems.

In immunology you will study the role of the immune's system in health and disease. You will explore the enormous diversity of the human immune system, the importance of this in host-pathogen interactions and how such knowledge is essential in the development of new biotechnological approaches to disease treatment and prevention, such as vaccines.

Knowledge of the development and function of the different components of the immune response is also essential in our understanding of autoimmune disease and other disorders of the immune system, such as immunodeficiency. You will explore how the extraordinary specificity of components of the immune system, such as antibodies, can be exploited in development of targeted molecular therapies in diseases including cancer.

Foundation Year

Our Foundation Year provides an excellent alternative route to Keele, providing a unique opportunity to better prepare for your chosen degree, and with guaranteed entry onto your undergraduate course once you successfully complete your Foundation Year.

This extra year of study can improve your academic skills, expand your subject knowledge, give you a better understanding of higher education and, perhaps most importantly of all, build your confidence.

Keele University is consistently ranked among the top universities for student satisfaction, and we have over 70 years' experience of teaching a foundation year to students. On the Keele Foundation Year, you'll study on campus, joining our undergraduate community from the outset, with access to all the facilities and support that you'd get as an undergraduate student at Keele.

Your future career

Many students with microbiology and immunology degrees seek careers in scientific industries, like research or laboratory technology. Others might prefer jobs in the health care industries, such as in medicine, nursing or pharmaceutical development.

On successful completion of your degree, you will graduate with a strong set of transferable skills suited to a range of roles in the science, education and health sectors. You may also wish to further your knowledge by progressing to postgraduate study.