A young woman inspects a sample in a microscope.

Microbiology

Research microorganisms to develop a crucial understanding of ecosystems, human health and beyond.

Microbiology – B.S. in Microbiology, Minor

Microbiology is a diverse discipline that has become an umbrella term for a variety of studies, including bacteriology, mycology, protozoology, phycology, parasitology and virology. In the Microbiology program at Montana State, students are able to delve into the study of all of these broad tracks of microbiology to prepare for careers in microbiology, the health profession, veterinary school or various topics in environmental microbiology.

The Microbiology major at Montana State offers five additional Options Within the Major: Pre-Medicine, Pre-Veterinary, Environmental Microbiology, Environmental Health and Medical Laboratory Science. Additionally, Microbiology can be taken as a minor.

 

“I wanted to come to MSU because of the research community in microbiology on this campus.”

Meg Branine ’20, Microbiology 

 

An illustration of a geyser mid-eruption.

University of the Yellowstone™
Montana State students make the surrounding Yellowstone ecosystem their classroom, laboratory and playground.

An illustration of a glowing light bulb.

Goldwater Scholars
Montana State is the Top 3 in the West in recipients of the prestigious Goldwater Scholarship for students in math, science and engineering.

An illustration of two hands clasped in a handshake.

Unique Opportunities
At Montana State, undergraduates are offered hands-on experiences in labs, studios, teaching farms and in the surrounding wilderness.

 

 

Career Resources

Within their first year of graduation, more than 96% of Montana State graduates are employed, continuing their education or not seeking employment, and career guidance website Zippia consistently ranks MSU as the #1 school in the state where alumni are most likely to land jobs.

Career Coaching & Professional Skills Studio

Professional career coaches help students with their career exploration, employer networking opportunities and job or internship searches. They also critique resumes and help students practice job interviews. Additionally, the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success offers free workshops for students to develop the professional communication and collaboration skills that are highly sought after by employers.

Careers

Microbiology students at Montana State University go into careers such as:

  • Research Scientist
  • Diagnostics
  • Biosafety
  • Higher Education

To explore more career possibilities, the Allen Yarnell Center for Student Success has a variety of tools available , including self-assessment and working with career coaches.