Overview

Studying in the Microbiology program at California Polytechnic State University allows you to explore the world of microorganisms and study life on a molecular level.

In the lab, you will manipulate microorganisms and gain a first-hand understanding of microbial cell structure and function, metabolism, genetics and ecology. As an undergraduate, you can also work directly with faculty members on research in California and around the world which allows you to gain real-world experience and knowledge. Many faculty research projects are funded by grants from the National Science Foundation and other government organizations.

Learn by doing

From tracking microbial communities in soil to analyzing genetic material, you will have opportunities to put your skills to the test and engage in hands-on learning. This knowledge base allows you to learn how to do things such as ensure our food is safe, treat and prevent disease, develop green technologies or track the role of microbes in climate change.

Careers

A degree in microbiology prepares you for graduate school, professional studies or careers in industrial microbiology, food and dairy microbiology, biotechnology, public health, or epidemiology programs. Graduates may also pursue certification as a Clinical Laboratory Scientist or Public Health Microbiologist.

Programme Structure

Courses include:

Diversity and History of Life

Cell and Molecular Biology

General Microbiology

General Virology

Medical Microbiology

Microbial Physiology

Key information

Duration

Full-time
- 48 months

Start dates & application deadlines

Starting 2027-09-18 00:00:00
- Apply before 2026-12-02 00:00:00

Language

English

Duolingo English Test

115

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IELTS

6.5

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Credits

180 SCH

Delivered

On Campus

Campus Location

San Luis Obispo, United States

Disciplines

Microbiology View 284 other Bachelors in Microbiology in United States

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Academic requirements

We are not aware of any specific GRE, GMAT or GPA grading score requirements for this programme.

English requirements

Duolingo English Test

115

Take A Free Practice Test!

TOEFL^® IBT

Schedule TOEFL®

IELTS

6.5

Prepare for Your English Test

Cathoven AI IELTS Preparation

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AI-powered IELTS feedback. Clear, actionable, and tailored to boost your writing & speaking score. No credit card or upfront payment required.

Trusted by 300k learners
98 accuracy using real exam data
4.9/5 student rating

Other requirements

General requirements

Coursework: They look at the college-prep coursework you have taken during high school, including the courses you have in progress or planned during 12th grade

GPA: For the purposes of your application, they'll consider your 9th-11th grade weighted GPA
Extracurricular Activities and Work Experience: Cal Poly takes activities such as work experience, internships, volunteer programs and extracurricular activities into consideration

Make sure you have a copy of your transcripts, current and planned class schedules, household annual income and social security number (if available).

There is a $70 application fee per campus at the time you apply, unless you qualify for an application fee waiver

English proficiency exam results

Tuition Fees

Tuition fees are shown in and the most likely applicable fee is shown based on your nationality.

International Applies to you

Applies to you

Non-residents

27357 USD / year

≈ 27357 USD / year
Out-of-State

27357 USD / year

≈ 27357 USD / year
Domestic

Applies to you

In-State

14037 USD / year

≈ 14037 USD / year

Living costs

San Luis Obispo

United States

1100 - 1800 USD / month

The living costs include the total expenses per month, covering accommodation, public transportation, utilities (electricity, internet), books and groceries.

Funding

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Scholarships Information

Below you will find Bachelor's scholarship opportunities for Microbiology.

Available Scholarships

You are eligible to apply for these scholarships but a selection process will still be applied by the provider.

About

Overview

Learn by doing

Careers

Programme Structure

Key information

Duration

Start dates & application deadlines

Language

Prepare for Your English Test

Credits

Delivered

Campus Location

Disciplines

What students do after studying

Academic requirements

English requirements

Prepare for Your English Test

Other requirements

General requirements

Tuition Fees

International Applies to you

Domestic

Living costs

San Luis Obispo

Funding

Need help with your student visa?

Scholarships Information

Available Scholarships

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