The BS program in microbiology combines the study of the branch of biology involving the smallest of living things (bacteria, fungi, algae, protozoa and viruses) and immunology (the study of all aspects of the immune system).

Despite their small size, microbes are fundamental to life on Earth and compose the majority of all Earth's life forms. In addition to their essential contributions to the natural world, microbes have been model experimental subjects due to their impact on human health and ease of manipulation in the laboratory. A significant portion of medical research employs microbiological and immunological methods in order to examine basic genetic and biological phenomena.

The microbiology degree program places emphasis on understanding microorganisms and their interrelationships with other organisms in nature and on the influence of microorganisms in biomedicine and biotechnology. Students in the microbiology degree program study the background and current findings in the field of microbiology and also acquire the critical thinking skills and the hands-on laboratory and field skills required to succeed in science.

The major provides excellent training for premedical, predental, preveterinary and prepharmacy students as well as advanced study in microbiology and immunology.