Course at a glance
| Degree awarded | Bachelor of Science (B.Sc) in Microbiology |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 years, then NYSC |
| Faculty / college | Faculty of Science |
| Career field / body | Medical/industrial labs, pharma and research; Nigerian Society for Microbiology |
| UTME subjects | Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics |
| Competitiveness | Competitive |
On this page
- What Microbiology is about
- A brief history of the discipline
- What you will study
- Why study Microbiology & who it suits
- Careers & where graduates work
- Licensing, professional bodies & further study
- How to get in (UTME requirements)
- Practise the UTME subjects free
- Related & alternative courses
- Frequently asked questions
What Microbiology is about
Microbiology is the study of micro-organisms — bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites — and their effects on health, industry, food and the environment.
A brief history of the discipline
Since the discovery of microbes, microbiology has transformed medicine, food and industry, and it is central to fighting disease and to biotechnology.
What you will study
You study general, medical, industrial and environmental microbiology, immunology, virology, mycology, molecular biology and food microbiology — with laboratory work, industrial training and a project.
Why study Microbiology & who it suits
This course suits curious, analytical students who enjoy science and laboratory or field work. An interest in the unseen world of microbes and its impact on health and industry is ideal.
Careers & where graduates work
Graduates work in medical and clinical laboratories, the pharmaceutical, food and brewing industries, environmental and public-health microbiology, research and quality control.
Licensing, professional bodies & further study
B.Sc Microbiology (4 years) → NYSC → roles in labs, pharma, food and research, with postgraduate study for specialist and medical microbiology careers.
How to get in: Microbiology UTME requirements
The JAMB UTME combination for Microbiology is Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics. You also need five relevant O’Level credits including English Language, Mathematics and the core science subjects. Confirm the exact requirement for your chosen university.
Practise the UTME subjects free
Prepare with free official-syllabus notes and timed CBT practice for your UTME subjects:
Related guides
- How to choose the right course for JAMB
- Good courses you can study with a low JAMB score
- Understanding the JAMB brochure & subject combinations
- How to use the JAMB eligibility checker
- How to change your course or institution on JAMB
Related & alternative courses
If you like Microbiology, you may also want to explore these related courses:
Frequently asked questions
How long is Microbiology in Nigeria?
The B.Sc typically takes 4 years, followed by the one-year NYSC.
What are the JAMB subjects for Microbiology?
Use of English, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics or Mathematics
What can I do with a Microbiology degree?
Work in medical and clinical labs, the pharmaceutical and food industries, environmental and public-health microbiology, research and quality control.
Is Microbiology the same as Medical Laboratory Science?
No — Microbiology is a science degree studying micro-organisms broadly, while Medical Laboratory Science is a regulated clinical profession focused on laboratory diagnosis.
Sources: Course content and career pathways summarised from Nigerian faculties of science and relevant professional/learned bodies; admission requirements from the official JAMB UTME brochure. Last checked: 22 Sept 2026. Belmadeng is an independent study platform and is not affiliated with JAMB, the NUC or any professional body. Programme structure, duration and requirements vary by university — always confirm details with your chosen institution and the official JAMB brochure.