MSc in Microbiology

MSc Microbiology Course is a two-year master's degree programme. An in-depth understanding of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, and algae, as well as their roles in fermentation and waste management, are taught under this course. The MSc in Microbiology course syllabus covers the basic understanding of microorganisms like bacteria, fungi, viruses, algae, and other similar microbes. Among the many topics covered under the MSc Microbiology subjects are microbial ecology, virology, mycology, genetics, immunology, and microbial physiology.

Candidates are required to fulfil the MSc Microbiology eligibility criteria if they wish to pursue this programme in their master’s programme. Courses in MSc Microbiology require applicants to earn a BSc in Microbiology or any similar degree with at least 50% aggregate marks from an accredited university for them to be eligible. Some popular MSc Microbiology colleges and universities are Jawaharlal Nehru University, Calcutta University, Alagappa University, Delhi University, etc. Admissions to MSc Microbiology courses are based on both merit as well as entrance exams. 

MSc Microbiology entrance exams include the CUET PG exam, IPU CET exam,  BITSAT exam, and others. The average MSc in Microbiology course fee varies between INR 20,000 to INR 5,00,000. Graduates in this course can pursue careers as Quality Control Executives, Associate Researchers, Academic Lecturers, Microbiological Auditors, Lab Technicians, Clinical Executives, etc. with an average salary ranging from INR 4,00,000 - INR 10,00,000 per annum. This page discusses the semester-wise syllabus and subjects, eligibility criteria, entrance exams, best reference books, list of electives, popular specialisations, and more, so keep on reading to know all the necessary MSc microbiology course details here. 

• Admissions to MSc Microbiology course are conducted through the CUET PG exam which is expected to be held in March 2025. Click at CUET PG 2025 Exam to know about the exam pattern, syllabus, eligibility criteria and more. 
• The BITSAT 2025 examination is expected to be held in June 2025. The official notification for this exam is yet to be released. To keep track of all upcoming updates of this exam, click at BITSAT Exam 2025. 

Candidates can take a look at the table below to acquaint themselves with some major highlights of the MSc Microbiology course:

FAQs 

What are the types of MSc Microbiology courses I can study?
There are different types of MSc Microbiology courses you can study in India such as full-time, part-time and distance learning courses. While full-time courses are the most popular choice among aspirants, many students also choose to study part-time, specifically distance learning courses. In addition to this, candidates may also study sub-divisions of Microbiology, like virology, bacteriology, immunology, etc.

Is MSc Biotechnology better than MSc Microbiology?
Determining the better course between biotechnology and microbiology courses will be subjective to individual candidates. Both MSc biotechnology and MSc microbiology courses offer similar career prospects, with graduates being qualified for a range of job profiles across different industries and sectors. However, MSc Biotechnology deals with a combination of biology and technology, while microbiology deals with the study of microorganisms. 

MSc Microbiology has been one of the most popular science disciplines pursued by aspirants in India and across the globe for well-known reasons. From incredible academic prospects to career paths that are highly rewarding, both professionally as well as financially, pursuing a two-year postgraduate course in microbiology could prove to be the best choice for an aspiring candidate. Outlined in the infographic below are some reasons why you should study MSc Microbiology courses in your master’s programme:

Incredible Career Prospects

Among the scientific disciplines, Microbiology may often be considered as one of the best fields for having the highest career prospects. From varying MSc Microbiology job roles across various industries and sectors, this master’s course trains and produces skilled individuals for a range of lucrative roles especially centred around the pharmaceutical industry. 

Rewarding Discipline

The impact of microbiologists, specifically on the health and well-being of society, often leads to highly rewarding careers. Graduates of the MSc Microbiology field not only enjoy financial benefits but, in many cases, moral benefits as well. Microbiologists also get to witness incredible career growth opportunities, from research and development to heading entire teams in their respective fields. 

High Demand

With a more health-conscious approach coming forward with the passage of time, not only by pharmaceutical giants but also food and beverage conglomerates, skin care industries as well as many other multi-national organisations around the world, microbiologists have begun to provide the much-needed seal of authenticity that attracts more buyers in return. Thus, the scope of MSc Microbiology is continuously growing in demand and variety with each passing day. 

Academic Prospects

The scope of MSc Microbiology also includes the academic prospects, wherein, there are a number of career opportunities for graduates in MSc Microbiology to enter the field of research and academia after completing their Master’s degree programme. This programme in Microbiology further directs the graduates towards the improvement arena wherein the course study can be made easier and more simplified, allowing for better technological changes and the adoption of new and creative methodologies in the microbiology sector. 

FAQs 

What are the reasons for studying MSc Microbiology? 
Among the various branches that fall under the discipline of Biology, Microbiology is one of the finest among them all. Microbiologists are known for playing an important role in disease prevention, in the study of microorganisms and microbes, in the preservation of the environment, in the development of agrochemicals and much more. Due to these essential jobs under the Microbiology sector, the demand for skilled and qualified microbiologists has been rising significantly. A graduate in MSc Microbiology can even join sectors like those of Agriculture, Environmental Biotechnology and more. 

What is MSc Microbiology?
MSc Microbiology courses are two-year postgraduate courses where individuals research and study the biological processes of various microorganisms like viruses, bacteria, fungi and algae. Such knowledge and understanding of the “micro-universe” is extremely important to several sectors like food production and processing sectors, healthcare and pharmaceutical sectors and even sectors like beauty and skincare, agriculture and much more.

The MSc Microbiology eligibility criteria that candidates must adhere is mentioned below as follows : 

• Candidates must have passed Class 10th and 12th with a minimum aggregate percentage of 50% aggregate marks or higher as per the requirements put forward by the university. 
• A microbiology bachelor's degree from an accredited university or an equivalent with at least 55% aggregate marks or higher. 
• Students must pass the entrance exam to be considered for the cutoff or merit list at institutions that hold entrance exams to MSc Microbiology.
• Some universities may require students to also submit SOPs (Statement of Purpose) and LORs (Letter of Recommendation) along with their application form, outlining their motivation and objectives behind pursuing the course at a specific university. 

Required Skill Set for MSc Microbiology Course

For the learning process to be effective under the MSc Microbiology course, the students must possess the necessary skills required to complete a master’s in this discipline. In order to complete an MSc in Microbiology successfully, a student must be adept in rigorous scholarly readings. In addition to having good reading habits, students also need to have a wide range of skills that will help them in their course study. Having the skills listed below can also help them to develop their personalities and get a position that's right for them in this field. Here are some of the required skills for the MSc Microbiology course : 

FAQs

What is the MSc Microbiology qualification?

Applicants interested in studying MSc Microbiology should have a valid bachelor’s degree in the relevant field. Moreover, applicants must have completed their bachelor's in either BSc Microbiology or any other related subjects in order to be eligible for the course. Some universities may even require additional test scores to evaluate the candidature of an applicant.

What are the prominent entrance exams for taking admission to MSc Microbiology Course?

Many popular universities and colleges that enrol a large number of students in a variety of their postgraduate courses conduct entrance tests for admission purposes. Some of the popular entrance tests include DUET, BHU PET, IPU CET, JNUEE, BITSAT, OUCET and many more. Some universities may even enrol students based purely on their academic merit, however, they may also conduct personal interviews to shortlist the best candidates.

The MSc in Microbiology entrance exams are required for admission to various colleges and universities that offer this specialisation. Students can get information about the entrance examinations offered by various universities from the table given below: 

FAQs 

Are NEET scores needed for MSc Microbiology?
No, applicants do not need to attempt or rank in NEET to enrol in an MSc Microbiology course in India. However, there are a number of entrance exams for the course in India, most of which are organised and conducted by the respective institutions themselves. Therefore, candidates are advised to check the admission requirements before applying to any institution.

Do you think MSc Microbiology is a difficult subject to study?
Yes, MSc Microbiology is a difficult subject to study for most students since it covers some highly complex subjects and topics that require a good understanding of the different scientific disciplines. However, with hard work and dedicated studying, MSc Microbiology can be an easy subject to study and build a career in. In fact, Microbiology requires students to be curious and eager to learn, as the entire subject is research-oriented.

MSc in Microbiology is offered by numerous educational institutions in India. The average MSc Microbiology course fees in India vary depending upon whether the college is government or private. Private colleges are likely to charge higher fees than government colleges as it depends on the facilities provided, research opportunities, recruiting companies that visit the college campus, and other related factors. Usually, the average annual MSc Microbiology fees range between INR 6,000 and INR 2,50,000. The following table provides an overview of the same:

FAQs 

What is the average MSc Microbiology fee?
The average Msc Microbiology course fee may range from INR 30,000 - INR 2.5 LPA. However, this course fee will be variable across different universities and institutions offering the course. Many factors, including the type of institution offering the course, the popularity of the course at a particular institute and much more affect the final tuition costs.

What is the highest paying role after MSc Microbiology?
Most companies offering high-paying roles to MSc Microbiology graduates in India are often managerial roles with the highest roles reported to be around INR 45 LPA. However, these are roles requiring a large amount of experience, often more than 10 years. However, graduates with 1-2 years can also find jobs earning around INR 20 LPA. 

There are numerous MSc Microbiology subjects included in the two years of the course of study, ranging from Biostatistics and Computer Applications, Recent Trends in Virology, to Microbial Genetics, Pharmaceutical Microbiology, and more. The MSc Microbiology Syllabus includes a variety of laboratory and research projects throughout the MSc Microbiology course duration, in addition to imparting theoretical knowledge to its students. The following is a brief overview of the MSc Microbiology syllabus/subjects:

• Recombinant DNA Technology
• Recent Trends in Virology
• Proteomics and Genomics
• Principles of Biochemistry
• Molecular Microbiology
• Microbial Physiology and Metabolism
• Immunology
• Host-microbe Interactions
• Fermentation Technology 
• Environmental Microbial Technology 
• Biomolecular Structures & Their Interactions
• Bioenergetics and Molecular Enzymology 

FAQs 

What all subjects are covered under MSc Microbiology in India?
Universities offering an MSc Microbiology course in India will cover a range of subjects and topics across the field of biology and allied sciences. Some of the topics include Molecular Biology, Microbial Diversity, Enzymology, Biostatistics, Virology, Bacteriology, Mycology and Phycology, DNA Technology and much more. Universities will also cover a range of elective subjects which will be unique to each institution in India. 

What skills do I need for MSc Microbiology?
If you are planning to study MSc Microbiology, there are numerous skills that you should either possess or instil during the course. Some of these skills include Analytical Skills, IT Skills, Research Skills, Time Management Skills, Communication Skills, Leadership Skills, Team building skills, Listening Skills, Patience, Attention to Detail, Hard work, Interpersonal Skills, Decisiveness, Numerical Skills and much more.  

The following is a list of the top MSc Microbiology private colleges in India: 

Note: The aforementioned fee is subject to change. 

The following is a list of the top MSc Microbiology government colleges in India: 

Note: The aforementioned fee is subject to change.

FAQs

How can I study MSc Microbiology in India?
To study Microbiology in India, students must first possess a valid Bachelor’s degree, preferably a BSc in Microbiology or related courses. In addition to this, applicants will most likely be required to attempt and clear an entrance test either conducted by the individual institution or the state. Each university may add individual admission requirements to shortlist the best candidates.

Can I study MSc Microbiology abroad?
Yes, you can study MSc Microbiology abroad, provided you have the necessary qualifications to study at the respective university abroad. Among the requirements, students must have a bachelor’s degree in the respective fields, an English language proficiency score, and GRE test score and any other additional requirement that may be required by individual universities.

Numerous industries provide a wide range of MSc Microbiology job opportunities to recent graduates. Microbiologists are needed in a variety of fields, including chemical technology, nanotechnology, pharmacology, and the water business. The MSc in Microbiology course graduates have a decent starting pay scale that increases gradually with experience.

Job Options After MSc Microbiology

Some of the most popular MSc Microbiology jobs are listed below, along with their descriptions and average salary offered:  

MSc Microbiology Salary

MSc Microbiology graduates' salaries vary depending on a variety of factors. The college from which an individual graduated is evaluated based on its rating and the quality of education provided. Other factors include people's skills, knowledge, and interests. The college's geographical location and size have an impact on the salary. The expected MSc Microbiology salary details are provided below : 

MSc Microbiology Recruiters

MSc Microbiology job opportunities abound in a variety of industries. Microbiologists are needed in a variety of fields, including pharmacy, water treatment, chemical technology, and nanotechnology.
Some of the top recruiters in the MSc Microbiology field include:

• Mascot International
• Siron Technology Pvt. Ltd.
• Lakshmi Life Sciences Ltd
• Panacea Biotec Limited
• Serum Institute of India
• GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals Limited

FAQs

Is MSc Microbiology a good career?
Yes, MSc Microbiology is a good career option for any candidate wishing to build a career in science. From incredible academic paths to career opportunities, the course moulds students for a lucrative future. Graduates can find jobs in public and private sectors, earning anywhere from INR 4-10 LPA, depending on their job roles and experience, among other factors. 

What is the scope of the candidates who pursue MSc in Microbiology?
The scope of MSc Microbiology graduates is immense as they will be qualified for a range of job roles across a number of industries and sectors. Among such sectors include healthcare, food production and processing and pharmaceutical sectors, among many others. Microbiologists will find jobs wherever companies are creating products for human consumption or usage. 

Students enrolled in the MSc Microbiology course have a lot of educational options to choose from. The opportunities for students who have managed to complete an MSc in Microbiology are greater because they can pursue a variety of career paths or continue their education and pursue the following courses : 

• PG Diploma in Microbiology : A Post Graduate Diploma in Microbiology is a diploma-level course that studies microorganisms and their effects on humans. 
    
• PhD in Microbiology: In addition, students have the option of going for a three-year doctorate, during which they can conduct research on microorganisms. Microscopic analysis, unicellular organisms, cell cluster organisms, etc. will all be included in the research. A comprehensive thesis report must be turned in by the students to be awarded a PhD. 

FAQs

What is the best option after MSc Microbiology? 
Some of the most sought after career opportunities after an MSc in Microbiology include prospects like Research Scientist, Lecturer, Senior Research Associate, Process Development Specialist, Marketing Manager, Biotech Product Analyst, Biomanufacturing Specialist and many more among others. 

Which country is best for making a future in MSc Microbiology? 
Some of the best countries for making a bright future out of your MSc Microbiology degree are the United States of America, United Kingdom, Hong Kong, among others. The top universities in these countries are Harvard University (USA), Cambridge University (USA), University of Oxford (UK), and the University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong.