Join Massey’s unique Bachelor of Science (Microbiology) to explore and understand microbes in the environment, from the soil to the air, and in the human body.

Microbiology is an essential science that helps us understand the microbes in the environment, including microbes that dwell in the soil, air and water, in our food and inside people, animals and plants. 

Microbiology can impact on many different areas, such as:

• agriculture, where rumen microbes are both essential to dairy and good industries, but also responsible for much of New Zealand’s carbon emission;
• bioprotection, where efforts to preserve native birds (kiwi) and plants (kauri trees) depend on expert control of microbial pathogens
• microbes have applications as model systems to answer questions beyond the immediate range of microbiology, such as the causes of cancer or birth defects;
• green and bio-based technologies, where microbes help preserve our environment by producing bio-based materials for use in diagnostics and vaccines or by harnessing solar energy for fuel production.

Multi-disciplinary

In the Massey Bachelor of Science (Microbiology) you will learn about microbiology hand-in-hand with other science areas such as veterinary, animal, and environmental science.

This allows you to explore microbiological disciplines, including environment/ecology, medical, veterinary and food microbiology, and biotechnology.

Some of the topics taught in microbiology courses include:

• bioinformatics and genomics
• biotechnology
• DNA technology
• environmental microbiology
• immunology
• medical microbiology
• developing diagnostic tests for infectious diseases (including SARS-CoV2)
• microbial diversity
• applied and industrial microbiology
• food microbiology.

Heaps of laboratory experience

Exposure and time in labs is a large component of the university course and on par with what is usually only seen in employment. 

For example, you’ll get to do a lab-based simulated research project, such as identification of microbes in environment or food, or producing useful proteins in bacterial culture.

As a graduate, you’ll have lab confidence and the unique ability to show potential employers that you are skilled in lab-based experiments.

Real-world experience

You will complete research projects as part of a summer studentship with the Massey University researchers. 

You’ll gain a real-world insight into the area and connections with potential future employers.

Note: July start will take 3.5 years to complete.

• Officially verified copies of Birth certificate/ Current passport, including any residency visa/ Citizenship certificate
• Proof of the name change
• High School graduation certificate
• Academic transcripts
• English Language proficiency
• A statement of any disability or health condition (If Applicable)
• Evidence of any scholarships (If Applicable)

To be admitted to an undergraduate qualification, applicants will need a minimum level of academic achievement from school, or another university or tertiary institution. 

The specific level depends on which country or region of the world they are from.

China:

• Senior High School graduation plus successful completion of one year of bachelor's-level study from a recognized institution; or
• Successful completion of a two-year diploma, or a minimum of two years out of a three-year diploma from a recognized institution; or
• Completed Gaokao with a tier-one score from the related province

India: 

• All India Senior School Certificate (AISSC) Year 12 or Indian School Certificate (ISC) Year 12, with an overall average of 75% and a minimum of 60% in English; or
• Higher Secondary School Certificate (HSC) – State Board Examination in the states of Andhra Pradesh, Gujurat, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, and West Bengal, with:
  • an overall average of 85% or higher (with no less than four academic subjects), with
  • a minimum of 70% or above in English.

Foundation qualifications to meet entry requirements

If you don't have the skills or qualifications you need to be accepted into your chosen study, you can do foundation qualifications.

• Foundation Certificate (International)
• Foundation Certificate (International Accelerated)

Specific requirements

There are no specific entry requirements for this qualification, outside of university admission regulations. However, there is some expected background knowledge.

Expected high school preparation

• At least 14 credits in NCEA Level 3 Biology.
• At least 14 credits in NCEA Level 3 Chemistry.

Can't meet the entry requirements?

The following pathways will get you prepared to study this major. If you have not studied NCEA Level 3 Biology (or equivalent) take the following course first:

• 162.103 Introductory Biology.

If you have not studied NCEA Level 3 Chemistry (or equivalent) take the following course first:

• 123.103 Chemistry for Modern Sciences.

These courses are available in the summer semester and will count towards credits in your degree.