Your guide to majoring in microbiology

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Key takeaways about a microbiology major

A microbiology major studies microorganisms like bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Students learn lab skills, research methods, and data analysis.
Career paths range from healthcare and biotech to research and government.
Microbiology majors often double major or minor in chemistry or public health.
Scholarships and tools are available to help microbiology majors fund their education.

What is microbiology?

Microbiology is the study of the tiniest living things—microorganisms. These include bacteria, viruses, fungi, algae, and protozoa. Even though you can’t see them with the naked eye, microbes have a massive impact on health, the environment, and technology. They play roles in everything from developing antibiotics to creating sustainable energy solutions.

What is a microbiology major?

A microbiology major is designed for students who want to dive deep into the science of microorganisms. You’ll study how microbes live, adapt, and interact with humans, animals, and the environment. It’s a mix of biology, chemistry, genetics, and lab research.

Think of it as a major that trains you to understand and work with life at the microscopic level—skills that can lead to careers in medicine, biotech, food safety, and more.

Types of microbiology degrees

Depending on your goals, you’ll find several options:

Bachelor’s degree in microbiology: The most common entry point, offering core courses and lab work.
Master’s degree in microbiology or related fields: For advanced research or specialized careers.
PhD in microbiology: For those interested in academia, high-level research, or leadership roles in biotech or government labs.

Key courses for microbiology majors

Expect a mix of lecture and lab-heavy classes. Common courses include:

General microbiology
Microbial genetics
Immunology
Virology
Biostatistics
Biochemistry
Environmental microbiology

These courses not only teach theory but also hands-on skills—like how to culture bacteria, run experiments, and analyze results.

Skills I’ll learn as a microbiology major

Studying microbiology builds both scientific and transferable skills:

Lab techniques: Microscopy, culturing, DNA sequencing.
Research skills: Designing experiments and analyzing data.
Problem-solving: Tackling complex scientific questions.
Communication: Explaining research clearly in writing and presentations.
Collaboration: Working in teams in both labs and projects.

Common double majors or minors to pair with microbiology

Pairing microbiology with another major or minor can boost your career options:

Chemistry or biochemistry for a strong science foundation.
Public health if you’re interested in epidemiology.
Computer science or data science for careers in bioinformatics.
Business if you’re aiming for management roles in biotech or healthcare.

Popular careers for microbiology majors

A microbiology degree opens doors to many industries:

Clinical laboratory scientist
Biotech researcher
Pharmaceutical developer
Public health analyst
Environmental microbiologist
Food safety specialist

Some graduates also continue on to medical, dental, or veterinary school.

How much will I earn with a microbiology degree?

Salaries for microbiology majors can vary depending on your career path and experience. Entry-level positions, such as lab technicians, often start around $45,000–$60,000, while roles in research, biotech, or healthcare can pay $70,000–$100,000 or more. Advanced degrees and specialized careers can lead to even higher earning potential. Overall, a microbiology degree offers a wide range of opportunities with competitive salaries in science and healthcare fields.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, August 2025

Notable schools for microbiology majors

Some universities with strong microbiology programs include:

You can also use Scout College Search to find programs that fit your interests.

Final thoughts on microbiology

Choosing a microbiology major can open the door to a wide range of exciting and meaningful careers. Whether you’re drawn to research, healthcare, public health, or environmental science, the skills and knowledge you gain will be in high demand. Exploring different courses, pairing your major with complementary fields, and gaining hands-on lab experience can help you find the path that’s right for you and set you up for a successful future in science.

If you're interested in a degree in microbiology, we have tools and resources to help. Use Scout College Search to find schools that match your goals and Scholly Scholarships to find scholarships based on your skills and interests. You can also explore a range of scholarships by major, including scholarships for microbiology majors—and easily apply for Sallie's $2,000 No Essay Scholarship.