MSc in Microbiology is a 2-year postgraduate program that provides in-depth knowledge about the world of microorganisms and their applications in health, agriculture, environment, and industry. It blends theoretical knowledge with the practical laboratory techniques to study bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and many more. The main topics that are covered in this program include Research Methodology and Biostatistics, Instrumentation in Microbiology, Diagnostic Microbiology, Eukaryotic Microbiology, and many more. Students receive hands-on skills in microbial culturing, genetic analysis and use of advanced laboratory devices.
To be eligible, applicants should have completed a BSc in Microbiology/Biotechnology, or Life Sciences with 50%-60% marks, which may vary according to the institution. The admission for this course is either based on examinations like CUET-PG, SUAT or merit-based on the university. A strong foundation in biology and interest in laboratory research is essential for success in the program.
The M.Sc in Microbiology course fee ranges between INR 43,142 - INR 6,56,000, and may vary according to the colleges (government or private). Some of the universities offering the program are Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham, Chandigarh University, Pondicherry University, Gandhi Institute of Technology and Management (GITAM), and many more.
The graduates of M Sc in Microbiology are trained for careers in pharmaceuticals, diagnostics, food safety, environmental monitoring and biotech R&D. General job roles include Microbiologist, Clinical Research Associate, Quality Control Analyst
Pharmacologist. Salary usually ranges from INR 2 to 13 LPA depending on the role and region.
Table of Contents
- M Sc Microbiology Key Highlights
- What is M Sc Microbiology?
- Why Study M Sc Microbiology?
- Who Should Study M Sc Microbiology?
- M Sc Microbiology Eligibility Criteria
- M Sc Microbiology Entrance Exams 2025
- M Sc Microbiology Studies Colleges in India
- M Sc Microbiology Admission Process 2025
- M Sc Microbiology Syllabus
- M Sc Microbiology Job Opportunities in India
- M Sc Microbiology Studies FAQs
M Sc Microbiology Key Highlights
Below are the key highlights of the M Sc in Microbiology course:
What is M Sc Microbiology?
An MSc in Microbiology is a PG course which focuses on study of microorganisms and their roles in health, industry, and the environment. It covers areas like microbial genetics, immunology, virology and applied microbiology. This blends the principle with hands-on laboratory experience, including cultural techniques and molecular tools. Students also learn about microbial interaction, bio-protection and quality control. It creates a strong foundation to understand both harmful and beneficial microbes.
Students can also pursue MPhil in Microbiology if they want advanced research opportunities.
Why Study M Sc Microbiology?
M Sc Microbiology is a postgraduate program focused on the study of germs and their applications in health, industry and environment. It prepares students for careers in research, diagnosis, biotech and pharmaceuticals. Those interested in microbial science, laboratory research and disease control will greatly benefit from this course.
Some of the reasons why study M Sc in Microbiology are as follows:
- As the global bio-safety concerns rise, the course prepares the candidates for roles in bio-defense. They can support defense laboratories or government bio-surveillance missions.
- Students are engaged in air, water, and soil microbial analysis using cultural-independent methods. This provides jobs in pollution control boards and environmental consultancies.
- The hospital sector in India is expected to reach USD 100 billion by FY 2027, and by the pharma sector to USD 130 billion by 2030, by increasing the demand for microbiologists. M Sc in Microbiology prepares students for the key roles in diagnostics, research and healthcare innovation.
- Microbiology helps and guides the students to deal with global challenges such as antibiotic resistance. They can contribute to the policy and drug development against resistant pathogens.
Who Should Study M Sc Microbiology?
The M Sc in Microbiology is a specialized postgraduation program that offers careers in areas like healthcare, research, pharma, agriculture, and many more. With increasing demand in disease control and biotech, it attracts science graduates. The course is suitable to those who aim for roles in science and innovation.
Below are the few pointers related to the best-fit candidates who should pursue a MSc Microbiology course:
- Those who are fascinated by unseen life forms and their roles in the ecosystem. Interested in understanding how germs affect the health, industry, and environment.
- Students who want to find out the root causes of infection and epidemics. They should be motivated to develop solutions in diagnosis and prevention.
- People who enjoy working with microscopes, cultures and laboratory devices daily. Attention to the detailing and laboratory discipline are essential traits.
- Ideal for students looking to contribute to vaccine, enzyme or drug production. They can support R&D and production in biotech and pharma companies.
- People who want to contribute to global health initiatives and outbreak control. Roles in epidemiology and health surveillance are increasing.
M Sc Microbiology Eligibility Criteria
To pursue the M Sc in Microbiology, the applicant needs to meet certain criteria, without which admission into this course may be difficult. Mentioned below are the eligibility criteria for pursuing an M Sc Microbiology:
- The interested candidates should have completed their bachelor degree in the relevant fields like B.Sc in Microbiology/Biotechnology/Life Science.
- Most universities require a total of 50% -60% in the qualifying examination. This percentage may vary on the basis of the institution.
- Some institutes conduct their own admission tests, such as MIT-WPU CET. These exams assess subject knowledge and ability.
- Scores from examinations like CUET-PG are accepted by many universities. They are used for screening and final selection of the candidates.
M Sc Microbiology Entrance Exams 2025
Candidates who want to pursue an M Sc in Microbiology typically need to qualify through an entrance exam conducted at the national level, state or university level. Few colleges also provide admission based on the marks secured in the graduation.
Some of the entrance exams for M Sc Microbiology are given below:
M Sc Microbiology Studies Colleges in India
Many Indian universities offer a M Sc in Microbiology for students interested in microorganisms, disease systems and applied research. The course mixes microbial genetics, immunology, biochemistry and industrial applications. Bachelor's degree in microbiology, life science, or related fields is usually required for admission.
Some of the colleges that offer M Sc Microbiology are as follows:
M Sc Microbiology Admission Process 2025
Admission to M.Sc Microbiology course is based on the entrance exams scores in national exams such as CUET PG. Some university might conduct university level entrance test to assess the skills or might give admisison based on merit of the candidate.
Given below is the step by step admission process for the Chandigarh University for your reference:
Step 1 - Go to https://cucet.cuchd.in and choose the active phase (CUCET-I or CUCET-II). Create your user ID and password to start the registration process.
Step 2 - Enter your name, email, contact number and city in the registration form. Select the program of your favorite discipline and interest.
Step 3 - To access your account, log in using your user ID or registered email. Complete your profile by providing the required details as per the instructions.
Step 4- Pay INR 1000 online to download the E-Prospectus from your account. The prospectus includes an application for admission and entrance tests.
Step 5 - Open the application form included in the E-prospectus. Fill in all academic and personal information carefully.
Step 6 - Log in again and pay the registration fee through net banking or a card. You can also generate an invoice for offline payment.
Step 7 - After successful registration and payment, a confirmation is sent via SMS/email. Save the confirmation details for future reference.
M Sc Microbiology Syllabus
The M Sc in Microbiology program introduced by many Indian universities usually includes the main areas with minor changes in institutions. Major disciplines include microbial physical, immunology, virology, microbial genetics and industrial microbiology.
Here are some subjects that are covered under the M Sc Microbiology in the University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES):
M Sc Microbiology Job Opportunities in India
Graduates with an M Sc in Microbiology can work in pharmaceutical companies, research laboratories, hospitals and biotech firms. They are often employed in roles related to clinical research, quality control, laboratory analysis, teaching and microorganism testing.
Some of the job opportunities after completing M Sc Microbiology are as follows:
M Sc Microbiology Studies FAQs
Can a non-microbiology graduate apply for M Sc in Microbiology course?
Yes, graduates of biotechnology, life science, or related fields may apply if they meet the subject and mark norms. However, preference is usually given to students with a background in microbiology. Before applying, it is helpful to check out a certain university's official website.
Can someone pursue a PhD in microbiology after earning an MSc degree?
Yes, a master's degree in microbiology offers a solid foundation for doctoral research in related subjects. A PhD program usually specializes in subjects related to immunology, medical microbiology, environmental microbiology, etc. Admission usually requires passing examinations such as CSIR-NET, GATE or DBT-JRF.
Is M Sc in microbiology good for a research career course?
Yes, the master's degree in microbiology provides in-depth research exposure and lab skills required for the R&D roles. The process of designing experiments, evaluating data and presenting scientific findings provides good practical exposure to the students.
How different is M Sc in Microbiology from the M Sc in Biotechnology?
The M Sc in Microbiology focuses on microorganisms and their biological processes, while M Sc in Biotechnology includes extensive techniques such as genetic engineering and molecular biology. Biotechnology is useful in the agriculture, pharma and bioinformatics, while microbiology emphasizes pathogenic studies and diagnosis.