Undergraduate Students of Microbiology & Cell Biology

Why Study Microbiology?

Microorganisms benefit society by cycling matter into molecules needed for life and detoxifying wastes. Historically, they have served as factories for the production of cheeses, alcohol and antibiotics. Microorganisms have also been engineered to produce a variety of products through the emergence of biotechnology.

Microorganisms have also inflicted distress to human, animal and plant populations through disease, spoilage of crops and the degradation of man-made structures. Microbiology is one of the most relevant, dynamic and exciting disciplines in the biological sciences.

Microbiology Option

This option covers all areas of microbiology. Students can choose from several tracks (microbiology, pre-vet, Pre-Med, environmental) making this option excellent preparation for those who wish to attend medical, dental or veterinary school, or study broader microbiology or environmental microbiology topics.

Medical Lab Science Option

This option is for students interested in careers that involve the performance of clinical laboratory tests. To become a medical laboratory scientist, students must train in a year-long program and become accomplished in microbiology, chemistry, blood banking, and hematology. Students can receive their training through the Montana Medical Laboratory Science Program.

Microbial Systems Option

This option is for students interested in working in biotechnology industries. These industries develop products to maintain biodiversity, restore soil and water quality, develop new pharmaceuticals to combat disease, decrease our dependence on nonrenewable resources, provide tools for investigative and forensic sciences, and improve food and fiber production.

Animal Systems Option

This option provides a challenging science curriculum with an emphasis on hands on learning in methods courses and an internship. Students gain knowledge of important molecular and biochemical techniques.

Biomedical Sciences Option

The curriculum of the biomedical sciences option provides a strong background for students who plan on a career in medicine or other health profession. Thisoptionis also for students that are interested in a career in research oracademics in cell biology, molecular biology, developmental biology, or neuroscience. The curriculumprovidesthe opportunity to take the courses necessary to make a competitive application to healthprofessionschool, graduate school or to obtain a technical position.   The curriculum has sufficient breadth to introduce the student to a wide range of disciplines, but is flexible enough so that students can focus, in their last two years, on areas of specific interest. Students interested in a career in a health science profession should consult the Health Professions Advising Office for informatioregardingadmission to professional schools.