Overview

Microbes are invisible to the naked eye, yet they influence human health, food production, agriculture and the wider environment in profound ways. The BSc (Hons) Microbiology and Immunology at Adelaide University examines how bacteria, viruses and parasites emerge and spread, and how the human immune system responds to them. Students first build a broad science foundation that includes data handling and analytical problem solving, then focus on their major. Laboratory work is central to the program, with more than 180 hours of practicals in purpose-built labs equipped with industry-standard tools. The structure is flexible, allowing the major to be combined with a complementary field of study or broadened through electives in science and non-science areas. The final stage offers professional experience through a research project or an industry placement. The course suits curious students interested in infectious disease, immunity and the development of new treatments, and it prepares them to apply scientific research to real-world challenges.

What You’ll Learn

Foundations in biology and chemistry, including molecules, genes and cells

Microbiology, covering the biology of bacteria, viruses and parasites

Immunology and virology, including how the body defends itself against pathogens

Infection and immunity, and what happens when immune function is compromised

How microbial pathogens interact with their hosts and surroundings

Scientific data handling and evidence-based decision-making

Interdisciplinary common core studies in ethics, data literacy and the responsible use of AI

Hands-on laboratory practicals in microbiology, immunology and molecular science

Work-integrated learning through a research project or industry placement

Elective courses or a second major to widen your expertise

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course, graduates will understand biology from the scale of molecules, genes and cells through to whole organisms and their interactions with microbial pathogens. They will be able to explain how infections develop, how immunity protects the body and how disease follows when defences fail. Students will critically evaluate scientific evidence, interpret data and apply analytical reasoning to practical problems in health and related industries. Extensive laboratory training develops technical competence in microbiology, immunology and molecular science, using modern equipment and sound research practice. Common core studies add awareness of ethics, data and responsible technology use, which supports confident decision-making in professional settings. Through the major and the chosen electives, students can specialise in the areas that suit their goals, and the final-stage research project or industry placement lets them apply that learning in a realistic working environment. Graduates leave as adaptable scientists prepared for the workforce or for further research and postgraduate study.