Content
The Microbiology major at UNL is designed to give students a deep understanding of the microscopic world and its impact on all life. Our curriculum aligns with the American Society for Microbiology (ASM) recommendations, ensuring that students gain the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in scientific thinking and research.
What You Will Learn
Graduates of the Microbiology major will be able to:
- Investigate Microbial Evolution: Examine evidence of how microbes adapt, survive, and evolve over time.
- Compare Cell Structures and Functions: Understand the similarities and differences across all domains of life.
- Analyze Microbe-Environment Interactions: Explore how microbes survive and interact with humans, animals, plants, and their environments.
- Explore Gene Function and Biotechnology: Study how genes control microbial life and how they can be modified for scientific applications.
- Understand Microbes in Ecosystems and Society: Describe how microbes sustain life on Earth and influence human health and society.
- Design and Conduct Experiments: Apply the scientific method to investigate microbes, integrating ethical considerations and communicating results clearly.
- Develop Laboratory and Computational Skills: Learn safe lab practices and use modern computer tools to analyze microbial data.
Academic Flexibility
The B.S. in Microbiology is offered through both the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) and the College of Agricultural Sciences and Natural Resources (CASNR). Students can choose electives that align with their academic interests, and many focus on one of two tracks:
- Microbiology in Medicine
- Biotechnology, Applied, and Environmental Microbiology
Visit the CAS and CASNR course catalogs to explore your options and to plan a program that reflects your academic goals.