Find out more about studying MSc Medical Microbiology at Leeds Beckett University? We've gathered all the key details, entry requirements, modules, fees, and more. Take the next step by booking an open day to explore it for yourself.
MSc - Master of Science
City Campus
Full Time
Sep 2027
1 Year
Build on your existing biomedical sciences knowledge and skills to become a specialist in medical microbiology. You will have the opportunity to experience a range of techniques across microbiology, and the topics you will study, from the role of microbiology in medicine to molecular microbiology and epidemiology, will give you specialist knowledge and a variety of skills applicable to a range of careers in the field of biomedical sciences and microbiology. This course will be delivered through independent laboratory research and expert lectures. You will complete a range of activities and assignments, including group projects that will mirror the work environment by requiring you to work effectively as part of a laboratory team and produce reports to detail your findings. You will be supported in your studies by staff with vast practical and academic experience, which will allow you to pursue your research interests in a wide range of areas. The modern facilities you will have access to include our purpose-built Biomedical Sciences Laboratory that contains a range of the latest scientific testing equipment, IT and AV facilities. You will have access to visiting professionals through our seminar series, who will share their industry and research experience. Not only will you gain insights into the very latest practices, you will also be able to cultivate your professional networks. Opportunities to develop your personal and professional skill set is built in to all the course modules, and the Personal & Professional Development module will focus on exercises that will enhance your employability, increase your confidence and prepare you to complete job and funding applications. The School offers a wealth of opportunities to cultivate your skill set beyond the laboratory. Serving as a student representative, supporting the School's widening and participation events or joining the student-led Biomedical Sciences Society will expand your circle of experience to complement your practical scientific expertise.
Study the communication and dissemination of scientific research. You will cover the traditional route, including journal articles and conferences. In addition you will look at the presentation of science in the mass media and at newer routes of dissemination such as social media. You will also discuss the target audiences for each route of dissemination and thus consider the different techniques utilised and skills required.
Gain a practical introduction to epidemiology, focusing on the distribution and determinants of disease caused by infectious agents - like tuberculosis - or physiological anomalies - like osteoporosis. You'll engage with genetic epidemiology to understand genetic inheritance and how it can uncover causes of disease on a population scale. You'll also evaluate disease surveillance programmes, studying the health of populations rather than individuals. Additionally, you'll develop your skills and knowledge to understand disease occurrence, causes and risk factors in different populations. Utilising your statistical skills, you'll assess the magnitude of diseases and evaluate effective control measures using global health and genetic datasets.
Using a case study approach, you'll explore the diagnosis of key microbial pathogens. Covering microbial drug resistance, new disease epidemics, pathogen mutation and evolution, you'll address issues that impact diagnosis using a global perspective. You'll develop a grounding in the key diagnostic methods, such as advanced molecular diagnostics and the interaction of microbial pathogens with the human host. In practical sessions, you'll apply relevant diagnostics to solve case study problems as you learn to diagnose bacterial infections using a range of lab results.
Explore an array of infectious diseases and their impact on human populations worldwide, spanning bacteria, viruses, protozoal pathogens and parasitic worms. You'll be introduced to each disease before studying it in-depth from a range of perspectives, including pathology, epidemiology, treatment and prevention. To underpin your knowledge, you'll critically evaluate each disease and its impact on global populations. You'll cover a range of globally significant infectious diseases, such as: meningococcal meningitis, cholera associated with natural disasters, malaria, hookworm infections, COVID-19 pandemic, Ebola virus and HIV epidemics.
Develop your awareness of project management and leadership and enhance your skills as a reflective practitioner/researcher. This module will also aid you in the identification of needs for the development of a career plan.
Develop your applied laboratory and research skills to master's level and beyond. You'll discover methods widely used in biomedical sciences, preparing you for your future career. Combining theory and practice, you'll delve into modern experimental techniques used in biological, medical and chemical analysis. We'll introduce you to COSHH and risk assessments to help you conduct lab research in a safe and productive manner. You'll also explore approaches to research, including quantitative data, data collection methods and research ethics. These skills will allow you to effectively plan your own research, evaluate research literature and analyse data.
Familiarise yourself with postgraduate-level research, undertaking an extensive independent research project. Exploring an area of biomedical sciences in depth, you'll build your critical scientific judgement, project management skills, work and scientific ethic and independent research skills. From initial planning to presenting your findings, you'll develop and design experimental methods to test your chosen aims or hypothesis. Throughout your project, you'll be supported by a member of the course team, drawing on their expertise and research interests. To conclude, you'll report your findings as a detailed written thesis and orally defend your research to an academic audience.
