B.S. in Microbiology

Undergraduate Entry Requirements

Application Fees: US$ 40

Academic Qualifications: Prospective undergraduate students are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous educational qualifications.

English Language Proficiency

• IELTS Requirement: A minimum overall score of 6.0 is often required.
• TOEFL Requirement: A minimum overall score of 79 is often required.
• PTE Requirement: A minimum overall score of 54 is often required.
• DET Requirement: A DET score of 110 is required.

Standardized Test Requirements

• SAT EBRW: A SAT EBRW score of 550 is required.
• SAT Maths: A SAT Maths score of 550 is required.

Students must provide:

• academic marksheets & transcripts
• letters of recommendation
• a personal statement - SOP
• passport
• other supporting documents as required by the university.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission, as the university considers factors such as availability of places and competition for the program. Additionally, some courses may have higher entry requirements or additional selection criteria, such as interviews or portfolio submissions.

These scholarships are awarded based on various criteria, including academic merit, leadership qualities, extracurricular involvement, and community service. 

International Presidential Scholarship: This highly competitive scholarship is awarded to a limited number of outstanding international students. It covers the full cost of tuition for up to four years of undergraduate study. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and involvement in extracurricular activities.

Capstone International Scholarship: This scholarship is available to undergraduate international students who demonstrate exceptional academic performance. It provides a partial tuition waiver, reducing the overall tuition expenses. The scholarship is renewable for up to four years, subject to maintaining the required GPA.

Global Ambassador Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded to undergraduate international students who actively promote cross-cultural understanding and engagement on campus. Recipients receive a partial tuition waiver and are expected to serve as cultural ambassadors by participating in university events and activities.

Competitive Merit Scholarships: The University of Alabama offers a range of merit-based scholarships to international students, such as the National Merit Scholarship, Collegiate Scholars Award, and Crimson Achievement Scholarship. These scholarships are awarded based on academic achievements and standardized test scores.

College-Specific Scholarships: Various colleges and departments within the university offer scholarships specific to their respective fields of study. International students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities within their intended major or program of study.

External Scholarships: The University of Alabama also provides guidance and resources to international students seeking external scholarships. The Office of Undergraduate Scholarships and Prestigious Awards assists students in identifying and applying for scholarships from external organizations, foundations, and government agencies.

To be considered for these scholarships, international students must submit their application for admission by the specified deadlines. Some scholarships may require additional materials, such as essays or letters of recommendation. It is important to review the eligibility criteria and application requirements for each scholarship opportunity.

Graduates of the B.S. in Microbiology program at the University of Alabama possess a solid foundation in microbiological principles, laboratory techniques, and research skills, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in microbiology, healthcare, research, biotechnology, and environmental science.

Microbiologist: Microbiologists study microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites to understand their behavior, physiology, and interactions with the environment. Graduates with a B.S. in Microbiology can pursue careers as microbiologists in various industries, including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare, food and beverage, and environmental science. Microbiologists may conduct research, develop vaccines, diagnose infections, or monitor environmental microbial communities.

Clinical Laboratory Scientist: Clinical laboratory scientists, also known as medical laboratory technologists, perform diagnostic tests on patient samples to detect and identify diseases, infections, and abnormalities. Graduates of the B.S. in Microbiology program can work as clinical laboratory scientists in hospitals, clinics, diagnostic laboratories, and research institutions. Clinical laboratory scientists analyze blood, urine, tissue, and other specimens using advanced laboratory techniques and equipment to assist in patient diagnosis and treatment.

Research Scientist: Research scientists conduct scientific research to advance knowledge and develop new technologies in various fields. Graduates with a B.S. in Microbiology can work as research scientists in academic institutions, government agencies, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology firms, or research laboratories. Research scientists design experiments, analyze data, publish findings, and contribute to scientific discoveries in areas such as infectious diseases, molecular biology, genetics, and biotechnology.

Biotechnologist: Biotechnologists apply principles of microbiology and biotechnology to develop new products, processes, and technologies for healthcare, agriculture, and industry. Graduates of the B.S. in Microbiology program can work as biotechnologists in biopharmaceutical companies, agricultural biotechnology firms, or industrial biotechnology companies. Biotechnologists may be involved in genetic engineering, fermentation, vaccine production, or bioprocess optimization to produce biofuels, pharmaceuticals, or agricultural products.

Environmental Microbiologist: Environmental microbiologists study microorganisms in natural and human-made environments to assess their impact on ecosystems, public health, and environmental quality. Graduates with a B.S. in Microbiology can work as environmental microbiologists in environmental consulting firms, government agencies, research institutions, or non-profit organizations. Environmental microbiologists may conduct environmental monitoring, assess microbial contamination, or develop strategies for waste treatment and pollution control.

Quality Assurance Specialist: Quality assurance specialists ensure that products, processes, and services meet quality standards and regulatory requirements. Graduates of the B.S. in Microbiology program can work as quality assurance specialists in industries such as pharmaceuticals, food and beverage, healthcare, and biotechnology. Quality assurance specialists develop quality control procedures, conduct audits, and ensure compliance with industry regulations to maintain product safety and quality.

Public Health Officer: Public health officers work to protect and improve the health of communities through disease prevention, health promotion, and public health interventions. Graduates with a B.S. in Microbiology can work as public health officers in government agencies, healthcare organizations, non-profit organizations, or international health agencies. Public health officers may conduct epidemiological investigations, implement disease surveillance programs, or develop public health policies and interventions to address infectious diseases and other health threats.