Microbiology, College of Agricultural & Life Sciences and College of Letters & Science (click here to learn the differences).
Advisor: Katy France, Student Services Coordinator, for initial advising in the major (608-262-2975, kfrance@bact.wisc.edu). Students are encouraged to schedule appointments online. Departmental Office: 1322 Microbial Sciences Building, 1550 Linden Drive (608-262-2914), http://www.bact.wisc.edu
Field of Study: The study of microorganisms, including their genetics, physiology, biochemistry, ecology, diversity, and their importance in biotechnology and health.
Possible Careers: An excellent major for careers in research science, medicine, veterinary medicine, and other professional fields. Career opportunities at the B.S. level in the biotechnology, food, bioenergy, pharmaceutical, and health care industries and in university and government laboratories. Graduates work in research and development, production, quality assurance, technical services, lab management, etc.
Special Opportunities & Additional Information
- Undergraduate Microbiology Club (student branch of the American Society for Microbiology)
- Many opportunities for student employment, independent research and senior thesis
- Departmental undergraduate research scholarships and awards including the Microbiology High Achievement award
- Intro Biology: Biology 151-152 (preferred), Botany 130 and Zoology 101-102; or Biocore
- Calculus: Math 211, 217, or 221
- General Chemistry: Chem 103-104; or Chem 109
- Organic Chemistry: Chem 343, 344, 345
- Physics: Physics 103-104; or Physics 201-202; or Physics 207-208
- Statistics: Statistics 301, 371, or 541