Microbiology
Bachelor of Science (BSc)
Why choose microbiology at UVic?
Study life too small to see — and build skills that make a real-world impact. At UVic, you’ll learn through hands-on lab courses, gain paid work experience through co-op, and work alongside researchers exploring infectious disease, biotechnology and environmental solutions. Our program connects molecular biology to careers in medicine, drug discovery, public health and biotech — all on a welcoming campus in Victoria, BC.
Customize your degree
Tailor your microbiology degree to match your interests and career goals:
- Pathogenesis – Discover how bacteria and viruses cause infectious disease and how science combats them.
- Bioinformatics – Combine biology, math and computer science to analyze molecular data and genomic systems.
- Environmental microbiology – Explore how microorganisms influence ecosystems, climate and pollution.
- Synthetic biology – Blend molecular biology and engineering to design microorganisms for innovations like biofuels and sustainable technologies.
Hands-on learning
- Advanced lab training — Develop practical skills in tissue culture, mass spectrometry, flow cytometry and high-pressure liquid chromatography — experience valued by employers and graduate schools.
- Research experience — Volunteer in a faculty lab and contribute to active research projects.
- Honours program — Complete original research under expert supervision.
- Directed studies — Work one-on-one with a professor on a focused research topic.
Earn while you learn
Co-operative Education (Co-op)
- Through UVic’s Co-op program, you’ll apply what you learn in paid, career-related positions that count toward your degree—and give you a head start after graduation.
- Co-op is available to everyone, including international students with co-op work permits.
- On average, 70 percent of UVic Co-op students graduate with a job offer already in hand.
- Unlike at some universities, at UVic, you don’t have to compete for a spot in Co-op.
Student life & community
The Biochemistry and Microbiology Student Society represents biochemistry and microbiology students at UVic and helps you feel connected from your first year. They host social events, share volunteer opportunities, offer academic support and create chances to meet faculty members. It’s a great place make friends who share your interests in science.
Career possibilities
- Medical professional
- Biotechnologist
- Epidemiologist
- Food quality analyst
- Veterinarian
- Research and development professional
Inspiring courses
- Immunology
- Virology
- Microbial Pathogenesis
Admission
Apply directly to this program as a high school student or a transfer student from another post-secondary institution.
Alternatively, you can apply to another major and then add this program as a minor after one year of full-time study.
Program details
Providing you accurate application deadlines, tuition fee estimates, admission requirements, scholarships and transfer credit depends on your situation.
Program details
Application deadline
Admission requirements
Recommended admission average
Expanded qualifications
English language proficiency
Transfer credit
Tuition & fees
Tuition rates effective May 1, 2025 (please note some ancillary fees are subject to change for Fall 2025).
This is an estimate only and should be used to give students, parents, and/or sponsors an approximation of the tuition and ancillary fees. This estimate does not include housing, food, cost of books and supplies or other expenses that students can expect in a term.
Scholarships
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We'll walk you through all of the steps in the process, from submitting your online application to accepting your offer of admission.
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