undergraduate
Microbiology
Best schools with microbiology
What is a microbiology major?
This program focuses on the scientific study of unicellular organisms and colonies, and subcellular genetic matter and their ecological interactions with human beings and other life. It includes instruction in microbial genetics, cell biology, cell physiology, virology, pathogenic microbiology, environmental microbiology, immunology, biostatistics, bioinformatics, and laboratory methods including microscopy.
How much do microbiology majors make?
median average salary
$85,000/yr
The national average salary for microbiology graduates in the United States is $85,000 per year. Those in the top 10 percent make over $247,400 a year, while the bottom 10 percent make under $29,900 a year. While salary ranges can vary by role, industry, and location, microbiology graduates typically make between $50,200 and $140,000 per year.
How popular is microbiology as a major?
Each year, around 3,150 students obtain a bachelor’s degree and around 10 students obtain an associate degree in microbiology. In 2021, 3,312 students received a bachelor's degree and 9 students received an associate degree. This is 2% more microbiology majors than there were in 2020. Microbiology is a relatively popular major compared to other biology majors.
