|
The trillions of tiny organisms dwelling around us and within us, far too small to be visible to the naked eye, affect our lives in profound ways. Some are vital to the functioning of our bodies or to aspects of our economy such as food production; others cause destructive diseases in humans or in species of special importance to humans. Microbiologists study the structure, function and environmental importance of bacteria, yeasts and other fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses. Advances in microbiology have had great impact in areas such as agriculture, biotechnology, ecology, medicine and veterinary science.
Real World
Microbiology graduates pursue a wide range of careers and graduate study options. Many A.B. graduates combine their majors with another area of interest such as arts or languages, going on to careers in such areas as education or science-related business. B.S. graduates often enter careers in such industries as biotechnology, pharmacology, agriculture and the food industry. Graduates from both tracks are successful in applying to graduate programs in biological sciences or other fields.
Major Requirements
You'll begin your study with foundation courses in biological sciences, chemistry, mathematics and physics. At the upper-division level, you'll study advanced general topics in the biological sciences, and you may also choose from such courses as microbial ecology, bacterial physiology and genetics, virology and bacterial diversity. You may choose to pursue an A.B. degree, giving you greater opportunity to choose courses outside your major, or a B.S. degree, providing more rigorous training in biological science.
Major Adviser
Name: Millie Ling-Tsai
Contact: mling@ucdavis.edu, (530) 752-0261
A Student Perspective
The microbiology major at UC Davis is diverse, encompassing and challenging. I chose this major after taking an introductory class because it seemed fun, friendly, and very interesting. The professors
are phenomenal and friendly. The classes that I've taken, such as medical microbiology, have introduced me to the huge clinical impact of bacteria. If I could start my undergraduate life over again, I would definitely stick with microbiology.
~ Andrew M. Silberg, senior
A Faculty Perspective
The microbes are the most diverse and most abundant group of life-forms on earth. Life is like an iceberg - the large mass of invisible life supports the small visible tip (the plants and animals). Students in the microbiology major have the opportunity to study these fascinating organisms while participating in a rigorous program that prepares them well for a variety of postgraduate sciences. Both the AB and the BS degrees are excellent preparation for professional school, and the BS provides exceptional preparation for graduate school or entering a career in microbiology.
~ Mark Wheelis, professor
|
