collage| Degree | Bachelor’s degree |
| Degree field | Microbiology, Biochemistry or a related field |
| License or certification | Voluntary certifications available. Certifications are typically needed for those seeking careers as Clinical Microbiologists. |
| Duration to become one | 4 to 5 years |
| Difficulty to become one | Very Hard |
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Microbiologists Requirements
Step 1: Take Advanced Placement Science Courses in High School
Aspiring Microbiologists should start developing the necessary skills by completing Advanced Placement (AP) science courses in high school. Examples include AP Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Maintaining a high GPA may also increase your chances of getting into the college or university of your choice.
Step 2: Earn a Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology
Almost every entry-level job in Microbiology requires at least a Bachelor’s Degree. Most Microbiologists earn a degree in Microbiology. However, closely related fields such as Biochemistry are also suitable.
Students learn the fundamentals of Microbiology, including the physical and chemical interactions between cells. The coursework will include classroom learning and lab experience.
During the first two years, you take your core classes. Common courses include Microbial Genetics, Organic Chemistry, Cellular Physiology, and Environmental Microbiology.
Along with Science-related courses, Microbiology students take courses in Mathematics, Statistics, and Computer Science to learn how to handle complex data analysis. During your last two years of study, you will likely spend more time in the lab than in the classroom.
Step 3: Complete an Internship to Gain Lab Experience
Most Bachelor of Science (BS) programs in Microbiology include laboratory coursework but additional lab experience is highly recommended. To gain more experience in the lab, look for Microbiology internship opportunities during your undergraduate studies.
Internships are often available through companies that employ Microbiologists, such as those involved in Pharmaceuticals or the Food industry.
The faculty at your university or college should help you explore internship opportunities. Internships are typically offered during summer and winter break to avoid interfering with your coursework.
Step 4: Start Seeking Entry-Level Microbiology Positions
After completing your formal education, start looking for entry-level positions in the Microbiology field. The minimum educational requirements for most entry-level jobs are a Bachelor’s Degree in Microbiology or a closely related field.
Potential jobs include Entry-Level Microbiologists, Microbiology Technician, Microbiology Research Assistant, and Microbiology Lab Support. Employers will typically look at your education and lab experience.
Step 5: Earn a Master’s Degree in a Subfield of Microbiology
A Master’s Degree is not a requirement for entry-level Microbiology jobs. However, a Master’s Degree can increase your employability and provides a chance to specialize in a specific branch of Microbiology.
There are several dozen branches of Pure Microbiology and Applied Microbiology. Common examples include:
- Bacteriology
- Parasitology
- Immunology
- Medical Microbiology
- Pharmaceutical Microbiology
- Industrial Microbiology
- Food Microbiology
- Environmental Microbiology
Specializing in a branch of Microbiology may be necessary for senior-level positions in various industries such as Food & Agriculture, Pharmaceuticals, and Medicine.
Earning a Master’s of Science (MS) in a branch of Microbiology typically takes two years. It prepares you for senior roles in the Microbiology field. For example, with a Master’s Degree in Microbiology, you may find it easier to become a Lab Supervisor or Lead Researcher.
Step 6: Earn a Ph.D. in Microbiology
A Ph.D. is typically needed for independent research and employment at colleges and universities. As with the Master’s Degree, earning a Ph.D. in Microbiology often involves the study of a specific subfield such as Pharmaceutical Microbiology or Immunology.
Postdoctoral Microbiology students work with experienced Microbiologists to gain more knowledge related to specific areas of research. Students must also propose their own research projects and publish the results. Becoming a published researcher is often a requirement for those who want to gain a permanent faculty position at a university or college.
Step 7: Obtain Certification in the Microbiology Field
Microbiologists may obtain several certifications to demonstrate their competency. The certifications include options for supervisors and lab technicians. Some of these certifications may also be required by employers for specific positions. However, this is not common for entry-level jobs.
Certifications are typically needed for those seeking careers as Clinical Microbiologists. The Clinical Microbiology Certifications are administered jointly by the American Society for Clinical Pathology and the American College of Microbiology. To be eligible for these exams, you need previous clinical lab experience and at least a Bachelor’s Degree.
Microbiologists working in the medical field may need to obtain certification through the American Board of Medical Microbiology. The ABMM certification is for doctoral-level Microbiologists who direct medical and public health Microbiology labs.
Step 8: Join a Professional Organization for Microbiologists
As with many professional fields, there are professional organizations dedicated to Microbiologists, including the American Society for Microbiologists (ASM). The ASM offers resources, networking opportunities, and job-seeking tips and publishes the results of research in the Microbiology field.
What degree do most Microbiologists have
Bachelor’s degree
We did a survey to ask other Microbiologists what degree they had when they first became one. Here are the results.Bachelor’s degree47.83%
Post Baccalaureate certificate17.39%
Master’s degree13.04%
How long does it take
4 to 5 years
Becoming a Microbiologist typically takes about four or five years as most Microbiologists enter the field after earning a Bachelor’s Degree. If you choose to earn a Master’s Degree, it may take an additional two years to become a Microbiologist. For those wanting to earn a Ph.D. and work at a college or university, becoming a Microbiologist can take seven to eight years.
If you’re considering a Master’s degree in Microbiology, first consider why you’re doing so. Is it to advance further into your current career as a microbiologist? Or are you looking for new job opportunities?
If your reason for pursuing a higher degree is to enhance your current career path then consider the following: The average annual salary of microbiologists who have a master’s degree is around $70,000 per year on average. Many people with this level of education find employment in research and development, medical and clinical laboratories, food science labs, environmental and water testing labs, and in government agencies such as state health departments or federal agencies like the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
Microbiologists with a Master’s degree earn around $70,000 per year on average.
If you have a Master’s degree in microbiology, your earning potential is around $70,000 per year on average. This is far more than the median salary of $36,000 for microbiologists with only a bachelor’s degree. If you’re interested in making more money as a microbiologist or want to advance in your career even further, consider getting your doctorate degree (PhD). With this advanced degree under your belt, you can earn up to $102,000 per year!
If you’re still deciding whether or not it’s worth getting your Master’s degree in microbiology and what careers are available to people with this kind of education, then read on below!
Many microbiologists who have a master’s degree find employment in research and development, medical and clinical laboratories, food science labs, environmental and water testing labs, and in government agencies. The highest paying states for this profession are California, Maryland, Maine, New Jersey, and Delaware. Every state defines the microbiologist training requirements differently. Some states accept training programs accredited by professional associations while other states require a master’s degree plus some hands-on training or supervised experience. Each state also has its own certification requirements for microbiologists.
As an advanced degree holder, you can apply your knowledge to a wide range of fields and job positions. The most common types of employment in this sector include:
- Research and development
- Medical and clinical laboratories
- Food science labs
- Environmental and water testing labs
If you are interested in working for the government, then consider applying for jobs with federal agencies such as the EPA or CDC where they will pay top dollar for qualified professionals. Additional options are available at state level positions as well. While some states prefer applicants who have a bachelor’s degree in microbiology (BSMM), others will accept individuals who have completed a master’s program (MSMM). In order to be eligible for these positions, it is usually necessary to fulfill additional requirements such as having extensive experience working with microbiological samples or meeting other specific requirements needed by each individual state agency.
Careers in Microbiology include: Medical Scientist (research), Epidemiologist (public health protection), Researcher (industrial lab), Forensic Scientist (criminal justice system), Water Quality Specialist (environmental protection), Conservation Biologist (sustainable use of natural resources).
A Microbiologist is a person who conducts research on microorganisms (microbes). Microbiologists study the growth, development, and interaction of microorganisms with other life forms.
By performing a variety of experiments in the laboratory, microbiologists may discover new information about how these microscopic organisms can be used to solve problems related to health or disease prevention.
Getting a Master’s degree in Microbiology prepares you for supervisor positions in many different careers.
A Master’s Degree in Microbiology prepares you for supervisor positions in many different careers.
Microbiology is a growing field with a large need for professionals, including scientists and researchers. Microbiologists are needed to help solve problems in health care, food safety and environmental protection.
Conclusion
We hope this article has helped you learn more about what a master’s degree in microbiology can do for your career. If you’re interested in pursuing a Master’s degree, consider contacting an academic advisor at one of our partner universities who can help you find the right program for your goals.
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