B.S. in Microbiology

Entry Requirements for International Students

1. Academic Requirements: Prospective undergraduate students are required to demonstrate a strong academic background. The University of Arizona looks for a percentage ranging from 60% to 70% in the students' previous academic records. 

2. English Language Proficiency: 

   • IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score falling below 6.
      
   • TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language): Applicants should achieve a minimum overall score of 79 on the TOEFL iBT (Internet-based Test).
      
   • PTE (Pearson Test of English): The university requires a minimum overall score of 53 in the PTE Academic.
      
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Prospective students must attain a minimum overall score of 105 in the Duolingo English Test.

The University of Arizona offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities for international students to support their academic journey. These scholarships are designed to recognize and reward outstanding academic achievements, leadership potential, and diverse backgrounds. 

1. Global Wildcat Scholarship: The Global Wildcat Scholarship is a merit-based scholarship available to incoming international undergraduate students. It provides partial tuition waivers for up to four years of study. Selection is based on academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community.

2. International Tuition Awards: The International Tuition Awards are merit-based scholarships offered to international undergraduate and graduate students. These awards provide partial tuition waivers and are renewable for multiple years. Eligibility is based on academic achievement, extracurricular involvement, and potential to contribute to the university community.

3. International Student Tuition Discount: The University of Arizona offers a tuition discount to international students from select countries. The discount reduces the out-of-state tuition rate to a more affordable level, making it more accessible for international students to pursue their education at the university.

4. Graduate College Fellowships: The Graduate College at the University of Arizona offers several fellowship programs for international graduate students. These fellowships provide financial support for tuition and living expenses. The eligibility criteria and award amounts vary depending on the specific fellowship program.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the University of Arizona offer scholarships specifically tailored to international students in their respective fields of study. These scholarships may be based on academic achievement, research interests, or professional goals. Students can inquire with their specific college or department for available scholarship opportunities.

6. External Scholarships: The University of Arizona encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities. There are numerous scholarships provided by organizations, governments, and foundations that international students can apply for. The university's scholarship office can provide guidance and resources to help students identify and apply for external scholarships.

It is important for international students to note that scholarship availability, eligibility criteria, and application deadlines may vary. 

The B.S. in Microbiology program at the University of Arizona prepares graduates for diverse and impactful careers in fields such as healthcare, research, industry, and public health, reflecting the broad applications of microbiological knowledge in today's dynamic professional landscape.

1. Clinical Microbiologist: Graduates can pursue careers as clinical microbiologists, working in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, or healthcare institutions. They analyze patient samples to identify microbial infections, recommend treatment plans, and contribute to patient care.

2. Research Scientist: With a strong foundation in microbiology, graduates may enter research positions in academic institutions, government agencies, or private research organizations. They conduct experiments, analyze data, and contribute to advancements in understanding microbial processes.

3. Pharmaceutical Researcher: Graduates can work in pharmaceutical research, contributing to the development of new drugs and vaccines. They may conduct studies on microbial pathogens, evaluate drug efficacy, and play a vital role in the pharmaceutical industry's efforts to combat infectious diseases.

4. Environmental Microbiologist: Careers in environmental microbiology involve studying microorganisms in various ecosystems. Graduates may work in environmental consulting firms, government agencies, or research institutions, addressing issues such as pollution, water quality, and microbial ecology.

5. Food and Beverage Microbiologist: Graduates can pursue roles in quality control and safety within the food and beverage industry. They ensure that products meet microbiological safety standards, conduct hygiene assessments, and contribute to maintaining the quality and safety of food products.

6. Industrial Microbiologist: In industrial settings, graduates may work as industrial microbiologists, contributing to the development and improvement of products and processes. They may be involved in fermentation processes, biofuel production, or the optimization of microbial-based technologies.

7. Public Health Microbiologist: Graduates can choose careers in public health, working for government health departments or agencies. They may be involved in disease surveillance, outbreak investigations, and the development of public health policies to control infectious diseases.

8. Biotechnology Specialist: With advancements in biotechnology, graduates can work in biotech companies, contributing to the development of biopharmaceuticals, genetically modified organisms, or microbial-based technologies for various applications.

9. Clinical Trials Coordinator: Graduates may enter the field of clinical trials coordination, working with pharmaceutical companies or research institutions. They play a crucial role in organizing and monitoring clinical trials to evaluate the safety and efficacy of new medical treatments.

10. Science Educator: Graduates interested in education can become science educators, teaching microbiology at the high school or community college level. They play a vital role in shaping the next generation of scientists and promoting scientific literacy.

11. Infection Control Specialist: In healthcare settings, graduates can work as infection control specialists. They develop and implement strategies to prevent and control infections, ensuring compliance with safety protocols and reducing the risk of healthcare-associated infections.

12. Biodefense Analyst: Graduates may contribute to biodefense efforts, working for government agencies or research institutions focused on biosecurity. They analyze potential threats, develop response plans, and contribute to national security efforts against bioterrorism.