B.S. in Microbiology

Entry Requirements for Undergraduate programs

1. Academic Qualifications: International students applying for undergraduate programs at NAU are required to have a minimum academic achievement of 75% or above in their previous educational qualifications.

2. English Language Proficiency:

   • IELTS: Overall score of 6.5 with no individual band score less than 6.
   • TOEFL iBT: Overall score of 70 or higher.
   • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 95.
   • PTE: Overall PTE score required is 56.

Score reporting is required.

To support their academic pursuits, NAU offers various scholarships and financial aid options. These scholarships recognize outstanding academic achievements, leadership qualities, and contributions to the community. International students are encouraged to explore the available scholarships to help ease the financial burden of studying in the United States. 

1. Global Achievement Award: This scholarship is available to incoming international undergraduate students and is based on academic merit. The Global Achievement Award provides partial tuition waivers, making quality education more affordable for deserving international students.

2. International Excellence Award: The International Excellence Award is a competitive scholarship available to outstanding international students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievements. Recipients of this scholarship receive a substantial tuition reduction.

3. Into NAU Scholarships: Into NAU is a pathway program for international students, and it offers several merit-based scholarships for students entering NAU through the program. These scholarships recognize academic excellence and leadership potential.

4. Phi Theta Kappa Scholarship: This scholarship is available to transfer students who are members of the Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society. It offers financial assistance to eligible international transfer students pursuing their bachelor's degree at NAU.

5. Diversity Scholarships: NAU values diversity and offers several scholarships that promote inclusivity and support underrepresented international students. These scholarships aim to foster a diverse and inclusive campus community.

6. Athletic Scholarships: Talented student-athletes have the opportunity to receive athletic scholarships, which are awarded based on athletic performance, skills, and potential to contribute to NAU's athletic teams.

7. Departmental Scholarships: Various academic departments at NAU offer scholarships to international students based on specific academic achievements and majors. Students are encouraged to inquire with their respective departments for available opportunities.

8. Graduate Assistantships: International graduate students may have the chance to secure graduate assistantships, which provide financial support and valuable professional experience through research, teaching, or administrative roles.

9. External Scholarships: NAU encourages international students to explore external scholarship opportunities available through organizations, governments, and foundations that provide financial support for studying in the United States.

Application Process and Deadlines: Each scholarship has specific eligibility criteria, application requirements, and deadlines.

The Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Microbiology program at Northern Arizona University (NAU) prepares students for diverse career opportunities in microbiology, biotechnology, healthcare, research, and related fields. Graduates of this program possess a strong foundation in microbiological principles, laboratory techniques, and critical thinking skills, making them highly sought-after professionals in various industries. The B.S. in Microbiology program at NAU equips graduates with the knowledge, skills, and experience necessary to pursue rewarding careers in various fields of microbiology and related disciplines. With the growing demand for skilled microbiologists in healthcare, biotechnology, environmental science, and other industries, graduates are well-positioned to make significant contributions to society and advance their professional careers.

1. Medical and Clinical Microbiology: Graduates can pursue careers in medical and clinical microbiology, working in hospitals, diagnostic laboratories, and healthcare facilities. They may conduct diagnostic tests, analyze patient samples for microbial pathogens, and contribute to disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention.

2. Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Industry: Microbiology graduates can work in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industry, developing new drugs, vaccines, and biologics. They may be involved in microbial fermentation, genetic engineering, drug discovery, and quality control processes to produce pharmaceutical products.

3. Environmental Microbiology: Career opportunities exist in environmental microbiology, where graduates study the role of microorganisms in environmental processes, pollution remediation, and ecosystem health. They may work for government agencies, environmental consulting firms, or research institutions to assess environmental impacts, monitor microbial populations, and develop strategies for environmental conservation.

4. Food and Beverage Industry: Graduates can pursue careers in the food and beverage industry, ensuring the safety and quality of food products. They may work in food microbiology laboratories, conducting microbial testing, implementing sanitation protocols, and developing food safety regulations to prevent foodborne illnesses and contamination.

5. Research and Academic Institutions: Many graduates choose to pursue careers in research and academia, working as research scientists, laboratory technicians, or educators in universities, research institutes, and government agencies. They may conduct basic or applied research in microbiology, publish scientific papers, and mentor future generations of microbiologists.

6. Public Health and Epidemiology: Microbiology graduates can contribute to public health efforts by working in epidemiology, infectious disease control, or public health laboratories. They may investigate disease outbreaks, monitor infectious diseases, conduct epidemiological studies, and develop public health policies to protect communities from microbial threats.

7. Veterinary Microbiology: Some graduates may choose to specialize in veterinary microbiology, working in veterinary clinics, diagnostic laboratories, or animal health research institutions. They may study microbial diseases in animals, develop vaccines, or conduct research to improve animal health and welfare.