Microbiology and Immunology (BSc)
»ÆÉ«Ö±²¥â€™s Microbiology & Immunology program is the only one of its kind in the Maritimes. In this research-intensive program, you’ll investigate microorganisms and immune responses to prepare you for a career in health care, research, and the food industry.
Why choose this program?
Study tiny organisms to make a big impact! Microbiologists study microorganisms and viruses, and among other things, immunologists want to know how larger organisms (like humans) respond to foreign objects, many of which are very small. Studying them together means you’ll be widely prepared for future career opportunities.
As a student of »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥â€™s Microbiology & Immunology program, you’ll benefit from a career-boosting combination of world-class education and hands-on research. You’ll also benefit from the program’s close relationship with internationally recognized clinical departments at Dal, like , Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, , and
Careers
A degree in Microbiology and Immunology provides great preparation for a variety of careers. The skills and knowledge acquired through this program can be applied but are not limited to careers in biomedical and environmental research, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, vaccine development, and more.Ìý
What you will learn
When you study Microbiology and Immunology at »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥, you’ll study microscopic organisms and how they can impact our lives.
You’ll learn how viruses, bacteria and parasites can cause disease, and how our bodies protect themselves. You’ll be taught by faculty who are experts and active researchers in infectious diseases, cancer biology, inflammation and host-pathogen interactions.
Sample courses
Health Science Microbiology
Life Sciences Calculus and StatisticsÌýÌý
BiologyÌý
ChemistryÌý
Human Organs and Tissues
Introductory Microbiology and ImmunologyÌý
Laboratory Methods in Microbiology and Immunology
Virology
Physiology of the Prokaryotic Cell
Experiential Learning in Microbiology and Immunology
Molecular Mechanisms of Cancer
Host Pathogen Interactions
Processes and Mediators of Inflammation
First-year students begin by taking foundation courses in science. These courses will give you the background for more in-depth studies in topics such as bacteriology, virology, immunology, microbial genetics, bacterial pathogenesis, and much more.
Gain experience outside the classroom
Enroll in a (FIGs) like Health and Medicine
Be mentored by an upper-year student
Apply for 1 of 70+ Faculty-coordinated summer research awards available each year.ÌýÌý
Enroll in co-op
Gain teaching and communication skills as a teaching assistant or working with a science outreach organization
Attend career prep workshops
Other opportunities include science communication internships, and student society leadership roles.
Customize your degree
The following Microbiology and Immunology program options are offered by »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥â€™s Faculty of Science. Connect with an academic advisor after you start your studies to explore options such as:  Ìý
Concentrated Honours Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and ImmunologyÌý
Combined Honours Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Immunology
Bachelor of Science with Major in Microbiology and ImmunologyÌý
Bachelor of Science with Double Major in Microbiology and Immunology
Minor in Microbiology and ImmunologyÌý
Add a minor to your BSc in Microbiology & Immunology to expand your skill set and perspective with a second discipline, allowing you to study everything you’re passionate about at Dal. Visit the to browse the minors you can take with this degree. ÌýÌý
Complete a certificate alongside your regular degree requirements and graduate with additional skills in specialized areas. Options include:
Genetics
Human Physiology
Science Communication and LeadershipÌýÌý
As a Science Co-op student, you’ll undertake three work terms interspersed with your academic study terms. Science Co-op degree programs allow you to apply your growing knowledge directly while providing paid career-related experience helping to offset academic costs while arming you with the information you need to make educated career choices.
The (DISP)Ìýis a unique, immersive first-year option for motivated students looking to complete their first year of a science degree. You’ll work effectively in teams, explore connections across scientific disciplines, and complete a hands-on research project while building critical skills in data analysis, tech, and scientific communication.
Microbes and immune systems dictate the future of global health, environmental sustainability, and industrial innovation. At »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥, one of Canada’s top research-intensive universities, you will graduate not just with a degree, but with advanced laboratory expertise and a sense of social responsibility needed to make a tangible impact on our world.
Admission requirements
Minimum admission requirements
To be considered for admission to this program, you must meet minimum academic criteria:
- Completion of secondary school (Grade 12)
- Achievement of the minimum average for your program of choice.
- Completion of Grade 12 English (or equivalent course).
Admission to many »ÆÉ«Ö±²¥ programs is competitive. This means that meeting minimum requirements does not guarantee admission.
Program-specific admission requirements
To enter the Bachelor of Science program in your first year, you must meet the following high school course requirements:Ìý
- Minimum overall average: 75% Ìý
- Academic English 12 Ìý
- Pre-calculus Math 12 Ìý
- Three additional academic subjects  Ìý
Note: All Bachelor of Science students enter the Faculty of Science as undeclared majors. This gives you the freedom to explore your scientific interests during your first year. Ìý ÌýÌý
You will officially declare your Microbiology and Immunology major, minor, or specialized options at the end of your first year using your first-year science and math prerequisites.
