Microbiology and Immunology Dalhousie University

Overview

Microbiology is the study of microorganisms such as viruses, bacteria and parasites, and the roles they play in our lives. Immunology is the study of how the body protects itself from microbes that cause infectious diseases and tumours. 

In Dalhousie University 's  Microbiology and Immunology programme you will study pathogens, including bacteria and viruses, in-depth while obtaining a strong grounding in cell biology, genetics and chemistry.

As the only Microbiology & Immunology programme on the East Coast of Canada, we’re a research-intensive department that helps students build the skills they need to become excellent biomedical researchers.

Our close working relationship with internationally recognized clinical departments at Dalhousie, like Pediatrics, Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Dentistry, Surgery and Medicine allows us to take a multi-disciplinary approach to research in areas like bacteriology & microbial pathogenesis, cancer, immunology/inflammation and virology.

What you will learn

• When you study Microbiology and Immunology at Dalhousie, you’ll study microscopic organisms and how they can impact our lives. You’ll learn how viruses, bacteria and parasites can cause disease, and how our bodies protect themselves. 

• You’ll be taught by faculty who are experts and active researchers in infectious diseases, cancer biology, inflammation and host-pathogen interactions.

• First-year students begin by taking foundation courses in science. These courses will give you the background for more in-depth studies in topics such as bacteriology, virology, immunology, microbial genetics, bacterial pathogenesis, and much more.

• Note: Students can choose to complete the first year of their BSc in Microbiology and Immunology on either the Halifax or Truro campus.

Careers

Studying Microbiology and Immunology at Dalhousie will bring you closer to a number of challenging careers in different areas related to medical science.

Possible careers include:

• Microbiologist

• Laboratory Technician

• Pharmacist

• Pathologist