Microbiology

Bachelor of Science

Top 5 Reasons to Study

01

Diverse and stable career options

02

Preparation for graduate and professional schools

03

Hands-on lab and technical skills

04

Development of critical thinking and analytic skills

05

Meaningful impact on health, environment and society

Core
Skills

  • Critical Thinking
  • Problem Solving
  • Professional Preparation
  • Experimental Design
  • Data Analysis

Sample
Jobs

  • Researcher
  • Laboratory Analyst
  • Quality Control Agent
  • Environmental Quality Technician

Successful Career Outcomes

Research Scientist Leading projects in infectious disease, vaccines, antimicrobial resistance or environmental microbiology
Healthcare Provider A strong micro background to work in infectious disease, infection control or vaccine-related fields
Specialists in Biotech Developing new drugs, biologics and diagnostics

Top
Employment
Industries

  • Healthcare and Clinical Laboratories
  • Biotechnology and Pharmaceuticals
  • Academic and Government Research
  • Professional Schools
  • Allied Health Industries

Brag
Points

  • Strong research environment
  • Above national average for acceptance rate to medical and dental schools
  • Built-in professional pathways

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Undergraduate research in Biological Sciences at Mississippi State University is highly active, with opportunities for you to engage in faculty-guided projects within a top research institution. Key research areas include genomics, biotechnology, ecology, and molecular biology, often culminating in presentations at the Undergraduate Research Symposium.

Spotlight

Our professors at MSU are changing the world with their cutting-edge research and including students on their journey in the classroom and through undergraduate research programs. Check with your department for additional undergraduate research opportunities.

Microbiology

2025-2026 Major Map

Bachelor of Science

Get the Courses You Need

Hands-On Learning

Connect with Community

Explore the World

Launch Your Career

Alumni
Success

Harry Peters Howell (B.S. Microbiology, 1975) was co‑owner and lab director of Micro‑Methods Laboratory Inc. in Ocean Springs for more than 40 years, running a clinical/environmental lab business and serving in community leadership roles.

Kathryn Wilhelm, finished her B.S. in Microbiology summa cum laude in 2003, earned her M.D. at UMMC in 2007, and joined the University of Mississippi Medical Center faculty in pediatrics.
 

Lance Atchley earned a B.S. in Microbiology (2006) with a chemistry minor, then completed an M.D. at the University of Mississippi Medical Center and now works as an anesthesiologist at OCH Regional Medical Center in Starkville.