Minor in Microbiology

Students may seek an academic minor in microbiology.

The microbiology minor complements the skills the student gains in his or her major discipline by providing a laboratory-based approach to the study of microorganisms, with applications to biotechnology, molecular and cellular biology, research and development, and public health.

Requirements for the Minor

A minor in microbiology requires the completion of 15 credits of coursework in microbiology, drawn from various disciplines as appropriate.

Students must take one course from the following: 

• BIOL 230 General Microbiology 
• BIOL 331 Concepts in Microbiology 
• BIOL 430–439 Advanced microbiology series

Students may choose the remaining courses from those above and the following: 

• BIOL 220 Human Genetics 
• BIOL 222 Principles of Genetics 
• BIOL 301 Human Health and Disease 
• BIOL 302 Bacteria, Viruses, and Health 
• BIOL 305 The Biology of AIDS 
• BIOL 320 Forensic Biology 
• BIOL 330–339 Applied microbiology series 
• BIOL 350 Molecular and Cellular Biology 
• BIOL 356 Molecular Biology Laboratory 
• BIOL 400 Life Science Seminar 
• BIOL 486A or 486B Internship in Life Science Through Co-op

Courses already applied toward other degree requirements (e.g., major or general education) may not be applied toward the minor. At least 9 credits must be earned in upper-level courses (numbered 300 or above). Prerequisites apply for all courses.