Biological Sciences MSci Microbiology - University of East Anglia (UEA)

Overview

Microbiologists are at the forefront of biotechnology research across a vast and diverse range of topics. This newly launched programme provides for the advanced study in concepts underpinning modern molecular approaches to microbiology and training in experimental techniques.

This programme allows you to explore the most diverse group of organisms on the planet, including bacteria, viruses and protists (such as slime-moulds, protozoa and micro-algae), which may be free-living or have parasitic, commensal or symbiotic relationships with other organisms. You will follow a comprehensive teaching programme covering the ecological, physiological, pathological, biochemical, genetic and molecular aspects of these organisms. You will learn about their roles as the agents of beneficial and harmful biogeochemical processes, in the diseases of humans, animals and plants, and as the sources of numerous valuable products and processes. You will benefit from the School’s close association with several international centres of excellence for microbiological research (Norwich Research Park) and undertake a research project in a microbiological laboratory.

You will study a broad first year which covers all the essential areas underpinning plant science including evolution, ecology, biochemistry and cell and molecular biology. You will also receive training in essential scientific methods and techniques, including statistics and modelling. In your second year you will study a core module in Microbiology, with the opportunity to specialise in different areas from molecular biology to ecology. In your third and fourth years, you will study microbiology at more advanced and focussed levels, taking modules in “Molecular plant-microbe interactions”, “Infection and Immunity”, “Microbial Cell Biology” and “Microbial Biotechnology”, as well as other complementary modules. You will also have the opportunity to undertake advanced, independent research projects in microbiology laboratories of international standing.

Course Organiser

Dr Matthew Hutchings

Course Brochure

View Course Brochure

Why Choose Us?

Biological Sciences now offer 20 different full-time undergraduate degree programmes (plus three part-time degrees) in a wide range of subjects. Approximately 150 new undergraduates join us each year to study Biological Sciences (including a range of specialised programmes), Biomedicine, Biochemistry and Ecology.

Our students also have the opportunity of studying abroad for a year in either Europe, North America or Australasia, or spending a year in industry. Indeed we are one of a very few departments in the UK able to offer such a comprehensive spectrum of biology-related degree programmes.

Two of the distinguishing features of the degree courses we offer are excellence and choice. You are able to choose from a large number of degree programmes composed of a wide range of teaching modules. Lectures and seminars introduce the latest ideas and understanding of biology, and you will gain a thorough training in modern experimental methodology through hands-on practical or fieldwork sessions.

Why Study Biology?

The biological sciences comprise a broad range of inter-linked disciplines which encompass the study of life from the molecular level, through cells, tissues and organisms, to populations and ecosystems.

As well as being intellectually interesting, advances in the Biological Sciences have direct relevance to our everyday lives. Examples of this are to be found in new medical treatments, increased agricultural output, the protection of endangered species and the development of new food products. These breakthroughs have improved the quality of life for millions of people over the past few decades, and led to a greater understanding of our impact on the environment and the need for better resource management and conservation.

Some examples of recent advances include:

The development of new vaccines
The development of rapid and accurate diagnostic tests for infectious diseases
The production of recombinant hormones in bacteria, e.g. insulin for the treatment of diabetes
The development of new techniques for the forensic detection of crimeThe development of disease and drought resistant strains of crop plants
The designation of thousands of wildlife reserves and national parks worldwide to protect and conserve endangered species and areas of special ecological interest
The development of biological control techniques to combat weeds and pests thereby reducing the use of herbicides and insecticides
The development of bioremediation – using naturally occurring plants or microbes to clean up pollution, e.g. oil spills

Continuing research into the biological sciences is essential if we are to overcome problems such as cancer, HIV and tuberculosis, find ways to treat or cure genetic diseases such as Muscular Dystrophy and Cystic Fibrosis, unlock the secrets encoded in the Human Genome Sequence, protect endangered species, conserve ‘at risk’ habitats, and combat threats such as bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases. Biological Scientists are at the forefront of biomedical, pharmaceutical, agricultural and ecological research, so if you are looking for an exciting, flexible field of study with excellent career prospects, both within science and in the wider employment market, then look no further than the biological sciences.

Entry Requirements

A Level ABB to include Biology.
International Baccalaureate 32 points including 3 HL subjects at grade 5 to include Biology
Scottish Highers AABBB to include Biology and one other science subject.
Scottish Advanced Highers ABB to include Biology. Other Sciences at Advanced Higher level would confer an advantage.
Irish Leaving Certificate AABBBB at Higher Level including Biology and at least two other science subjects.
Access Course Please contact University for information.
HND Please contact University for information.
European Baccalaureate 75% overall with 7.5 in Biology.

Students for whom English is a foreign language

If English is not your first language you must have a recognised English Language qualification: Minimum IELTS 6.0 with a 5.5 in each sub-section, or TOEFL 550 (213 CBT / 80 IBT). Please contact us for more information about other qualifications that we may consider.

If you do not meet the academic and or English requirements for direct entry our partner, INTO University of East Anglia offers guaranteed progression on to this undergraduate degree upon successful completion of a preparation programme. Depending on your interests, and your qualifications you can take a variety of routes to this degree:

International Foundation in the Sciences

Interviews

The majority of candidates will not be called for an interview. However, for some students an interview will be requested. These are normally quite informal and generally cover topics such as your current studies, reasons for choosing the course and your personal interests and extra-curricular activities.

Gap Year

We welcome applications from students who have already taken or intend to take a gap year, believing that a year between school and university can be of substantial benefit. You are advised to indicate your reason for wishing to defer entry and may wish to contact the appropriate Admissions Office directly to discuss this further.

Special Entry Requirements

A2-level Biology is required for this course. In addition to this, applicants are asked to have two other A2-level subjects. General Studies and Critical Thinking are not accepted.

Intakes

The School's annual intake is in September of each year.

Alternative Qualifications

We encourage you to apply if you have alternative qualifications equivalent to our stated entry requirement. Please contact us for further information.

GCSE Offer

Students are required to have Mathematics and English Language at minimum of Grade C or above at GCSE Level.

Disclaimer

Whilst the University will make every effort to offer the modules listed, changes may sometimes be made arising from the annual monitoring, review and update of modules and regular (five-yearly) review of course programmes. Where this activity leads to significant (but not minor) changes to programmes and their constituent modules, there will normally be prior consultation of students and others. It is also possible that the University may not be able to offer a module for reasons outside of its control, such as the illness of a member of staff or sabbatical leave. Where this is the case, the University will endeavour to inform students.

Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4

Year 1

Compulsory Study (20 credits)

Students will select 20 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Foundations for Physiology Through a series of lectures, tutorials and practicals, BIO-1A58 aims to provide the basic knowledge of physico-chemical, biochemical and system-related mechanisms essential for the functioning of tissues, organs and organisms. Physiological processes like vision, hearing, respiration or temperature regulation are amongst the examples used throughout the module to demonstrate the interplay of these mechanisms. more...	BIO-1A58	10	Semester 2
Introductory Chemistry for Life Sciences This module will give students of biology a basic knowledge of general chemistry, to include aspects of inorganic and organic chemistry that are most relevant to the life sciences. more...	BIO-1A61	10	Semester 1

Essential Study (100 credits)

Students will select 100 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Biodiversity An introduction to the evolution of the major groups of microorganisms, plants and animals. The module considers structural, physiological and life-cycle characteristics of these organisms. It charts the development of life on land and interprets evolutionary responses to changing environments. Students on this module are strongly advised to also take BIO-1A4Y and BIO-1A6Y. more...	BIO-1A03	20	Semester 1
Evolution, Behaviour and Ecology This module introduces the main ideas in behavioural ecology, evolutionary biology and ecology. It concentrates on outlining concepts as well as describing examples. Specific topics to be covered include the genetical basis of evolution by natural selection, systematics and phylogeny, the adaptive interpretation of animal sexual and social behaviour, ecological processes and population biology. more...	BIO-1A04	20	Semester 2
Fundamentals of Cell Biology and Biochemistry The module aims to provide an introduction to the basic aspects of biochemistry and cell biology. Basic biochemical processes will be explored, as well as catalysis and enzymology. There will be an introduction to the nature of the living cell, its membranes, and organelles, how cells communicate and also how they are visualised. more...	BIO-1A14	20	Semester 2
Fundamentals of Molecular Biology and Genetics The module aims to provide an introduction to the basic aspects of biochemistry, molecular biology and genetics. The module explores the fundamental properties of macromolecules, DNA structure, synthesis and replication, as well as the structure and function of proteins. The genetic code, genes and their expression will be covered as well as the rapidly expanding area of molecular biology. The module also covers chromosome structure, mechanisms of heredity, medical genetics and cytogenetics. more...	BIO-1A13	20	Semester 1
Maths and Statistics for Biologists A combination of lectures and workshops will be used to introduce a range of topics in maths and statistics that are absolutely essential for a contemporary undergraduate studying the biological sciences. THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO YEAR 1 STUDENTS. THIS MODULE IS NOT AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS. more...	BIO-1A6Y	10	Year Period
Skills for Biologists This year-long module combines small-group seminars with supporting lecture-based sessions. Material will support modules BIO-1A13, 1A14, 1A03 and 1A04. Students will learn how to access scientific material and to use it critically in essays, oral presentations and posters. This module will explore how such scientific material is disseminated to scientists and to the general public. There will also be data handling exercises. THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO YEAR 1 STUDENTS. THIS MODULE IS NOT AVAILABLE TO VISITING/EXCHANGE STUDENTS. more...	BIO-1A4Y	10	Year Period

Year 2

Essential Study (80 credits)

Students will select 80 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Biochemistry This module builds on the principles of biochemistry taught in BIO-1A14. Selected topics in intermediary metabolism are covered in greater depth and extended to include the specific roles of coenzymes in metabolic pathways. In turn this leads to a discussion of the roles of hormone-receptor interactions and signal transduction in metabolic regulation. The recent contributions of structural biology to cellular biochemistry are acknowledged in both the lecture series and associated practical classes, whilst ATP utilization is illustrated by consideration of the active transport of molecules across membranes in both prokaryotes and eukaryotes. more...	BIO-2B01	20	Semester 1
Genetics This module will describe the basis of heredity, describing both the functions and the structures of genes and whole genomes. Examples will be taken from bacterial, animal and plant systems and will be considered from both functional and molecular points of view. The influence of the "new genetics" on medicine, agriculture and society will also be covered. Practical work will involve a molecular genetic analysis of a prokaryotic promoter sequence that will illustrate some important principles of the functional analysis of genes. It is strongly recommended that students taking this module should also take BIO-2B02 (Molecular Biology). more...	BIO-2B17	20	Semester 1
Microbiology A broad module covering all aspects of the biology of microorganisms, providing key knowledge for specialist Level 3 modules. Detailed description is given about the cell biology of bacteria, fungi and protists together with microbial physiology, genetics and environmental and applied microbiology. The biology of disease-causing microorganisms (bacteria, viruses) and prions is also covered. Practical work provides hands-on experience of important microbiological techniques, and expands on concepts introduced in lectures. The module should appeal to biology students across a wide range of disciplines and interests. more...	BIO-2B28	20	Semester 2
Molecular Biology The module provides an introduction to the principles of molecular biology. The programme starts with the structure of DNA, genes and genomes, followed by the characterisation of the information flow including the mechanisms and regulation of transcription and translation. Protein folding, modification and turnover are described together with reactions concerning DNA (replication, recombination and repair). The module ends with a detailed description of methods used for the experimental manipulation of genetic material (gene isolation, DNA sequencing, polymerase chain reaction, molecular cloning, transgenic plants and animals and global functional genomics). Practical work includes an introduction to molecular biology techniques together with computer assisted DNA and protein sequence analysis. more...	BIO-2B02	20	Semester 2

Option A Study (20 credits)

Students will select 20 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Biology in Society THIS MODULE IS ONLY AVAILABLE TO ANY STUDENT THAT SATISFIES THE PRE-REQUISITE REQUIREMENTS. Alternative pre-requisites are BIO-1A03 and BIO-1A04, or BIO-1A13 and BIO-1A14. This module will provide an opportunity to discuss various aspects of biology in society. Students will be able to critically analyse the way biological sciences issues are represented in popular literature and the media and an idea of the current `hot topics' in biological ethics. Specific topics to be covered will involve aspects of contemporary biological science that have important ethical considerations for society, such as GM crops, DNA databases, designer babies, stem cell research etc. Being able to understand the difference between scientific fact and scientific fiction is not always straightforward. What was once viewed as science fiction has sometimes become a scientific fact or scientific reality as our scientific knowledge and technology has increased exponentially. Conversely, science fiction can sometimes be portrayed inaccurately as scientific fact. Students will research relevant scientific literature and discover the degree of scientific accuracy represented within the genre of science fiction. more...	BIO-2B1Y	20	Year Period
Cell Biology This module explores the molecular organisation of cells and the regulation of dynamic cellular changes, with some emphasis on medical cell biology. Dynamic properties of cell membranes, cell signalling, growth factor function and aspects of cancer biology and immunology. Regulation of the internal cell environment (nuclear organisation and information flow, cell growth, division and motility), the relationship of the cell to its extracellular matrix and the determination of cell phenotype. Aspects of cell death, the ageing process, developmental biology, mechanisms of tissue renewal and repair. It is strongly recommended that students taking this module should also take BIO-2B02 or BIO-2B17. more...	BIO-2B06	20	Semester 2
Community, Ecosystem and Macro-Ecology The module will introduce the main concepts in community, ecosystem and macro-ecology - patterns and processes related to species richness; diversity; stability; succession; primary and secondary productivity and energy flows. We will then examine how these concepts aid our understanding of the functioning of terrestrial and marine ecosystems. more...	BIO-2B26	20	Semester 2
Evolutionary Biology The aim of this module is to provide a background in the concepts and principles of evolutionary biology. It includes discussion of genetic variation, population genetics, natural selection, population structure, ecological adaptation, life history characteristics, speciation, interactions among species, biological diversity, phylogeny and molecular ecology and biogeography. Workshop discussions are held weekly. more...	BIO-2B10	20	Semester 2
Human Physiology The module aims to provide an understanding of the physiology of several organ systems found within the human body. Learning Outcomes: On completion of the module it is expected the student will have gained an understanding of: - Information transmission within the body by the nervous system and the integrative processes within the spinal cord and brain. - Reaction to the environment through reception of external stimuli by sensory receptors, such as the eye. - Effector systems, including muscle contraction and its control. - Respiration, gas transport, blood circulation and heart function. - Kidney function in excretion and in water and mineral ion homeostasis - The digestive system and nutrition, including patterns of health and sickness. - Endocrine regulation and integration, including reproduction cycles in the female. The module is backed up with a comprehensive programme of practical work involving human physiological experiments. more...	BIO-2B05	20	Semester 1
Plant Biology This module aims to provide an appreciation of modern plant biology with an emphasis on development, signalling and response to the environment. It consists of practical classes and lectures. It encompasses molecular genetics, molecular, biochemical and physiological perspectives, and affords an understanding of aspects of plant and plant cell function including photosynthesis and the mechanisms by which plants perceive and respond to biotic and abiotic environments. more...	BIO-2B07	20	Semester 1

Free Choice Study (20 credits)

Students can select modules worth 20 credits from the course catalogue with the approval of their School.

Year 3

Compulsory Study (100 credits)

Students will select 100 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Data Analysis An alternative to the laboratory or field based project (BIO-3D1Y). The module involves the student undertaking their own rigorous analysis of existing biological data (either from the literature or from biological databases). The source of the data for analysis is provided by the project supervisor. The project report is usually submitted at the end of the Spring Semester. Projects may also be available for suitably qualified year long visiting students registered in BIO. more...	BIO-3D2Y	40	Year Period
Microbial Biotechnology This module provides a training in the culture techniques, microbial physiology and genetics that underpin the production of bioproducts such as biofuels, bioplastics, antibiotics and food products, and the use of micro-organisms in wastewater treatment and bioremediation. more...	BIO-3C09	20	Semester 1
Microbial Cell Biology This module will cover recent developments in several areas of microbial cell biology, including the cell envelope, cell division, differentiation, secretion, gene expression and cell signalling. The material will be taught in seminar-type sessions by scientists from across the Norwich Research Park, all of whom are experts in their chosen subjects. This exciting module will bring you the most cutting edge research in microbial cell biology. more...	BIO-3C10	20	Semester 2
Molecular Plant-Microbe Interactions Plants interact with a whole range of microbes with effects that are both beneficial (e.g. nitrogen-fixing symbioses between legumes with Rhizobium, and the wide ranging mycorrhizal interactions between plants and fungi) and harmful, with many diseases being caused by viruses, fungi and oomycetes. The module will encompass examples of all these interactions, addressing them mainly from a molecular level, both in the ways in which the microbes recognise and invade their specific hosts and in the responses and mechanisms used by the host plant to encourage the good microbes and fight off the bad ones. The Norwich Research Park is a world centre for this subject, and the module will be taught by researchers from the John Innes Centre and the Sainsbury Laboratory, as well as from UEA. There is no pre-requisite for this module, but knowledge of both plant and molecular biology would be advantageous. more...	BIO-3C20	20	Semester 2
Research Project Open to all BIO finalists (or BIO-3D2Y, Data Analysis, or BIO-3C40, Scientific Research Skills) except those on C180/2/3/4 (who take BIO-3C9Y). Projects involve extensive data collection, either in the laboratory or field, of a particular topic supervised by a member of staff of BIO or an affiliated institute. Topics are chosen in consultation with the supervisor. The project report is submitted at the end of the Spring Semester. Projects may also be available for suitably qualified year long visiting students registered in BIO. more...	BIO-3D1Y	40	Year Period

Option A Study (20 credits)

Students will select 20 credits from the following module(s).

Name	Code	Credits	Period
Communication and Transport Across Biological Membranes The biological activity of cellular membranes is mediated by an array of fascinating and highly specialised proteins embedded within the lipid bilayer. These proteins support essential functions such as sensing, signalling, transport and energy transduction and form the focus of this module. An introduction to the principles that govern the structure of these proteins is followed by a series of case studies that explore the link between protein structure, location and function that includes the following; aquaporins and water transport, bacteriorhodopsin and light driven proton movements and cell signalling. NB students who do not have the pre-requisite module (BIO-2B01), but who have taken and passed BIO-1A13, BIO-1A61 and either BIO-2B06 or BIO-2B28 can take this module if they obtain the agreement of the module organiser. more...	BIO-3C02	20	Semester 2
Genomes, Genes and Genomics This module will provide a description of contemporary biological studies of genomes. There will be a focus on a molecular understanding of gene expression within organisms, with a particular emphasis on regulatory processes that affect expression at the genome level. Topics to be covered include comparative and functional genomics, organization of prokaryotic and eukaryotic genomes, global regulation of genome expression and mechanisms involved in maintaining genome integrity. Lectures and the associated practical will also provide a thorough grounding in technologies that analyse genomes and their gene products. more...	BIO-3C41	20	Semester 1
Host-Parasite Interactions The object of the module is to examine, from a evolutionary and ecological perspective, the complex interactions between parasites/diseases and their hosts and to show how the selection pressures that each side of these interactions impose lead to coevolutionary processes. We will take an overview of the role that such parasitic interactions may have played in the development of key biological traits, such as the evolution of sexual reproduction, and their current role in sexual selection. The module will include traditional parasitology (to set the scene and understand the complexity of the interactions), introducing the major groups of parasites and their hosts. We will examine the role of parasites and host-parasite interactions in evolution, drawing examples from conservation, behaviour, current research, theoretical predictions and models. more...	BIO-3C47	20	Semester 1
Infection and Immunity This module aims to provide a detailed coverage of the biology of selected infectious microorganisms, in the context of host and responses to pathogens. The properties of organs, cells and molecules of the immune system are described, along with the mechanism of antibody diversity generation, and the exploitation of the immune response for vaccine development. Examples of microbiological pathogens such as Salmonella typhimurium and Mycobacterium tuberculosis are used to illustrate major virulence strategies. The impact of genomics on the study of infection, and on mechanisms used by pathogens to evade host responses will be discussed. The module's theme is the molecular and cellular biology events at the host-pathogen interface. more...	BIO-3C28	20	Semester 2
Molecular Enzymology The module sets out to explain the molecular basis of the often complex catalytic mechanisms of enzymes in biological systems. Covered are the underlying principles of enzyme catalysis and techniques for the study of enzyme mechanism and structure. These provide a foundation for discussions of the catalytic and cellular mechanisms of proteinase families such as the serine and metalloproteinases as well as mechanism-based drug design for the retroviral aspartic proteinase, HIV-1pr. Covered also are molecular motors , complex nanomachines involved in vesicle transport, ATP synthesis and DNA replication. Finally, the biosynthesis of the signalling molecule nitric oxide and the P450s involved in the metabolism of drugs and other xenobiotics are presented. An extended practical based on the kinetics of a model enzyme, chymotrypsin, helps underpin concepts learnt in the module. more...	BIO-3C01	20	Semester 1
Science Communication This module aims to bring an understanding of how science is disseminated to the public. Students on the module will be made aware of the theories surrounding learning and communication. They will investigate science as a culture and how this culture interfaces with the public. Students will examine case studies in a variety of different scientific areas. They will look at how information is released in scientific literature and how this is subsequently picked up by the public press. They will gain an appreciation of how science information can be used to change public perception and how it can sometimes be misinterpreted. Students will also learn practical skills by designing, running and evaluating a public outreach event at a school or in a public area. OPEN TO ALL STUDENTS REGISTERED IN THE SCIENCE FACULTY. more...	BIO-3C6Y	20	Year Period

Fees And Funding

University Fees and Financial Support: UK/EU Students

Further information on fees and funding for 2012 can be found here

How To Apply

Applications need to be made via the Universities Colleges and Admissions Services (UCAS), using the UCAS Apply option.

UCAS Apply is a secure online application system that allows you to apply for full-time Undergraduate courses at universities and colleges in the United Kingdom. It is made up of different sections that you need to complete. Your application does not have to be completed all at once. The system allows you to leave a section partially completed so you can return to it later and add to or edit any information you have entered. Once your application is complete, it must be sent to UCAS so that they can process it and send it to your chosen universities and colleges.

The UCAS code name and number for the University of East Anglia is EANGL E14.

Further Information

If you would like to discuss your individual circumstances with the Admissions Office prior to applying please do contact us:

Undergraduate Admissions Office (Biological Sciences)
Tel: +44 (0)1603 591515
Email: admissions@uea.ac.uk

Please click here to download the School of Biological Sciences Undergraduate Prospectus or register your details online via our Online Enquiry Form.

International candidates are also actively encouraged to access the University's International section of our website.

UEA

Biological Sciences Courses