Microbiological Sciences and Immunology, Other
Total graduates
240
2025 · 12 schools
International share
7.5%
18 international students
Bachelor's degrees
154
4.5% international
Master's degrees
41
4.9% international
Overview
Microbiological Sciences and Immunology, Other is a specialized field that encompasses the study of microorganisms, their functions, interactions, and their role in various environments, along with the immune responses they elicit in hosts. This interdisciplinary program typically integrates principles from microbiology, immunology, molecular biology, and biochemistry, enabling students to explore the complex relationships between microbes and the immune system.
Students in this field learn about various microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, and how these entities influence human health and disease. The curriculum often covers topics such as microbial genetics, pathogenesis, immunological techniques, and the development of vaccines. Additionally, students may engage in laboratory work, where they gain hands-on experience in isolating and characterizing microorganisms, as well as conducting experiments that investigate immune responses.
Graduates of this program can pursue various career paths in academia, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and biotechnology. They may work as researchers, lab technicians, or public health officials, contributing to the understanding of infectious diseases, vaccine development, and the role of the microbiome in health and disease.
Moreover, the importance of this field has been underscored by recent global health challenges, emphasizing the need for professionals who can address microbial threats and enhance immune responses through innovative research and public health strategies. Overall, Microbiological Sciences and Immunology offers a robust foundation for those interested in the microscopic world and its profound impact on life.
Graduates by year
AssociateBachelor'sMaster'sDoctoral
From 2003 to 2025, graduates grew 32% and the international share went from 6.6% to 7.5%.
Colleges that award this degree
In 2025, 12 schools awarded this degree as a first major. The table lists those in the 2027 U.S. News National or Liberal Arts rankings, plus the unranked schools with the most graduates.
| Rank | School | State | Graduates | International |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #5 | Stanford University | California | 5 | 0 |
| #12 | Dartmouth College | New Hampshire | 24 | 6 |
| #16 | Washington University in St Louis | Missouri | 5 | 0 |
| #20 | University of California-Los Angeles | California | 152 | 6 |
| #23 | Georgetown University | D.C. | 2 | 0 |
| #44 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick | New Jersey | 10 | 4 |
| #49 | University of Rochester | New York | 6 | 0 |
| #49 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Washington | 6 | 1 |
| #121 | Loyola University Chicago | Illinois | 4 | 0 |
| #121 | George Mason University | Virginia | 19 | 0 |
| — | New York Medical College | New York | 4 | 0 |
| — | Loma Linda University | California | 1 | 0 |
Purple: international students are 25% or more of the school's graduates.
Related jobs and pay
| Occupation | US employment | Mean hourly wage | Mean annual wage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Sciences Managers | 108,690 | $86.66 | $180,250 |
| Biological Science Teachers, Postsecondary | 50,190 | — | $102,840 |
| Microbiologists | 18,940 | $46.92 | $97,600 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025.
Graduate counts: IPEDS Completions, US Department of Education, 2003–2025. Rankings: 2027 U.S. News.