The Department of Microbiology and Molecular Genetics offers three undergraduate Bachelor of Science degrees: BS in Microbiology, BS in Genomics and Molecular Genetics, and BS in Environmental Biology/Microbiology. In each of these degree programs, the overarching goal is to provide a broad foundation in science with an emphasis in microbiology. Classically, microbiology is defined as the study of microbes, small living organisms. The faculty take a more contemporaneous view and our definition includes the study of the biology and genetics of all prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and their viruses. Thus, our majors at MSU are designed to be appropriate for students interested in any area of biology, regardless of the careers or subdisciplines they plan to pursue. Nevertheless, the degree programs are professional ones in the sense that they prepare the student for the workplace–with some on-the-job training, of course.

Study in our program places a premium on self-motivation, and the responsibility for learning would fall increasingly on you as you advance through your course of study. To aid you in the learning process, our faculty are committed to providing in each of our programs challenging and stimulating curriculum with an appropriate mix of required courses and electives, including lecture-based courses, teaching laboratories, and individualized experiences. We particularly encourage students to take part in curiosity-driven research through independent study projects, paid jobs in research labs, or other mechanisms available to them. We also encourage you to take advantage of the many research seminars, workshops, and other scholarly opportunities on campus. These are among the unique advantages of an undergraduate education at a research-intensive institution like MSU.

Microbiology and Molecular Genetics faculty have dedicated their careers to generating and acquiring scientific knowledge, and they are enthusiastic in their desire to help you join us in this process. All our degree programs are designed to promote close faculty-student interaction, so that we can communicate to you some of our passion and respect for science. We provide a broad, but rigorous, array of opportunities and incentives for learning, and we take great satisfaction in your achievements.

The Microbiology and Molecular Genetics faculty challenge you to be inquisitive, to become problem solvers, and to expand your thirst for knowledge; not simply to "get a good grade", but rather for the greater rewards of learning and personal growth. The skills, discipline and knowledge that you attain will be far greater rewards than any grade or credential we can provide. Ultimately, however, the commitment and the dedication must come from you, the student. Those who accept the responsibility will be provided an educational opportunity that can benefit them and the society in which they live, regardless of their career path. You will graduate as a problem solver and a self-educating scholar - lofty, but attainable, goals that are consistent with the Mission of Michigan State University as an educational institution.

For more information please contact the Director of Undergaduate Studies for additional information, or consult our frequently asked questions page.

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