What Is Microbiology
Microbiology is the scientific study of microorganisms, those being unicellular, multicellular, or cellular. Microbiology encompasses numerous sub-disciplines including virology, bacteriology, protozoology, mycology, immunology and parasitology.
Entry Requirements To Study Microbiology In South Africa
Microbiology is the study of microbes that are mostly too small to observe with the naked eye. These include viruses, bacteria, yeast and fungi. Many different microbes exist and they can be beneficial contributing to the cycling of nutrients in the environment, degradation of harmful substances and assisting in the manufacture of antibiotics, food and beverage products. Some microbes are harmful causing food spoilage, fouling and diseases of humans, animals and crops.
Microbiology at Rhodes University covers fundamental aspects of microbes, delving into their molecular secrets and how these fundamental aspects can be applicable to industry and the environment.
Undergraduate Courses
Microbiology is offered at the second and third year levels, having 1st year prerequisites of Chemistry; Cell 101 or an aggregated pass in Zoology or Botany. Students wishing to major in Microbiology are encouraged to take Biochemistry 201. Formal lectures are complimented with laboratory practical experience and field trips.
Mic201: Microbes and their Environment
Mic202: Molecular Biology and Genetics
Mic301: Eukaryotic Molecular Biology and Advanced Virology
Mic302: Industrial and Applied Microbiology
Honours in Microbiology
Microbiology graduates who successfully meet the entrance requirements can continue with an Honours Degree in Microbiology. This is a one year programme comprising of coursework and research.
Coursework modules offered include
Molecular Microbial Ecology
Emerging Infectious Diseases
Mammalian Cell Culture
Mycorrhizal Fungal Interactions with other Soil Microorganisms.
Research
Students are allocated individual research projects supervised by a staff member. Research Projects account for approximately 60% of the Honours examination requirement.
Masters and PhD Studies
Suitably qualified students are encouraged to join a research group to complete research degrees (MSc and PhD). Students are supervised or mentored by staff in the department. Students become an important part of the research culture within the department.
Prospective students are advised to visit the individual staff pages to become familiar with the research programmes offered in the department. Students are welcome to contact staff members to discuss opportunities and vacancies.
Schools Offering Microbiology In South Africa
Nelson Mandela University , Port Elizabeth. (i) Techniques Course.
University of Venda, Limpopo.
University of Pretoria, Pretoria.
University of Limpopo, Polokwane.
University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban.
University of Fort Hare, Alice
What subjects are needed to become a microbiologist in South Africa?
Required School Subjects
English Home Language or First Additional Language – 60%
Physical Science – 50%
Mathematics – 60% or if you’ll be taking Maths (Bio) – 70%
What qualifications do you need to study microbiology In South Africa ?
You’ll usually need: 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science. 2 or 3 A levels, or equivalent, including biology for a degree. a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study
What can you do with a degree in microbiology in South Africa?
Top science schools offer Microbiology degrees that study bacteria, viruses, microscopic fungi, yeasts, and microscopic algae. Graduates in Microbiology follow careers like biomedical scientist, scientific laboratory technician, or science writer.
How long does it take to become a microbiologist in South Africa?
Microbiology and Biotechnology The BSc Honours in Microbiology and Biotechnology is a 1 year full-time degree. It guides students to critically examine and develop an appreciation of the integrative nature of biology, especially in its applications through biotechnology, disease biology and metagenomics.
How many years does it take to become a microbiologist In South Africa ?
Depending on the level of employment you are aiming for, it can take anywhere between 8 and 16 years to become a microbiologist.
Do you need a PHD to be a microbiologist In South Africa ?
Microbiologists typically need a Ph. D. to carry out independent research and work in colleges and universities. Graduate students studying microbiology commonly specialize in a subfield such as bacteriology or immunology.
Is maths required for microbiology In South Africa ?
Maths is not necessary for microbiology. You pursue graduation in microbiology with Biology itself. It is a course mainly for 12th PCB students. You can get admission in it without maths in class 12th.