Microbiology is the study of the life cycle and activity of organisms that are too small to be seen with the naked eye. This field is concerned with and directly related to diseases and health, specifically the occurrence of diseases and the development of drugs or vaccines to combat them, as well as the recent development of biotechnology. Research is also an important part of this field, with countries contributing hundreds of journals over the years, adding to the field’s advancement and discoveries.
The most basic requirement for studying abroad is to pass a proficiency test in either English or the native language of the country in which you wish to study or both. Studying microbiology abroad will provide you with access to world-class laboratories and hands-on experience in the field while being taught by various experts in the same environment as prominent figures in the field such as Leeuwenhoek, Flemming, and Koch, to name a few.
The countries and universities listed below are among the best in the world for their expertise in the field as well as their contributions to microbiology.
Which Country is Best for Studying Microbiology?
If you are looking for reputable universities with low tuition, the best countries for studying microbiology are Germany, Switzerland, and the United States. Most universities in these countries practice high academic standards, and they are quite renowned in the field of microbiology. Not only that, most countries in Europe offer scholarships to international applicants, and prospective internationals can also sign up for work-study programs to generate monthly income.
Click to See: Free Microbiology Schools with No Tuition
Which University is Best for Studying Microbiology?
On an international scale, the most popular universities in microbiology are Harvard University, MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology), the University of Oxford, and the University of Cambridge. To be strictly honest, the quality of education might not vary too much from university to university, but the admission rate for these global universities is extremely competitive.
If you are thinking about applying to top universities in Microbiology, make sure to apply to other universities as well to increase your chances of getting admitted. Now, let’s jump straight into the list of all the countries that are well-known for courses in microbiology!
Check Also: Available Programs for International Students
Best Countries to Study Microbiology Abroad
1. England
England is an excellent country to study microbiology since it has made significant contributions to microbiology, particularly in the context of research. After completing a three-year bachelor’s degree in microbiology, students are exposed to a variety of specialty options for their Master’s or Ph.D. in microbiology. These include, among other things, clinical, tissue, and cellular engineering, genetics, and biotechnology.
Non-EU students pay $27,000 to $36,000 per year in tuition, while EU students pay a little more than $10,000 per year. Housing ranges from $89 to $228 per month, with student residence halls being less expensive than private residences.
International students are permitted to work 20 hours per week part-time and can stay in the country for up to two years after graduation to pursue job opportunities.
2. The Netherlands
The Netherlands is well-known for its rapidly growing biotechnology industry and contributions to microbiology research. Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, the father of microbiology, was also born in this country.
Students from the EU and non-EU countries pay different tuition rates, with EU students paying around $1,200 and non-EU students paying an average of $16,000 to $23,000 per year. Housing costs between $350 and $1,200 per month, with private housing being more expensive than student housing.
Scholarships are available to international students in this country, one of which is the Holland Scholarship, which is available to non-EU students. Part-time work is also permitted during the school year for a total of 16 hours per week.
3. Switzerland
By promoting and awarding internships and fellowships to post-graduate and Ph.D. students, the country encourages young professionals in the field to advance their careers and specialize. To name a few, this country’s main areas of focus in microbiology are virology, bacteriology, and mycology.
Tuition is not more than $2000 per year, and housing costs $450 to $1,200 per month, with student housing being less expensive than renting an apartment. Thus, Switzerland is a good country to study microbiology if you are interested in studying at excellent institutions.
International students are eligible for university and government scholarships, and they are also allowed to work 15 hours per week at the beginning of their term or after 6 months, depending on whether they are EU or non-EU students.
Find Out: How to Study in Switzerland for Free
4. Denmark
The country has level 3 laboratories, which allow researchers to study genetically modified organisms, resulting in a greater understanding of infectious diseases and the development of vaccines.
Tuition fees for EU students range from $11,000 to $20,000 per year, with EU students paying no fees or less than $200 per year. The monthly rent for housing ranges from $200 to $1,500. International students are eligible for a variety of scholarships and are permitted to work part-time for 10-20 hours per week.
5. Scotland
A bachelor’s degree in microbiology is usually preparatory for a higher level of learning, such as a master’s or a doctorate, and this is usually the case for students in Scotland. The country encourages and supports research, with its universities offering more hands-on and practice-based curriculums. Students can also get paid internships in industries that have partnerships with universities.
Tuition per year ranges from $24,000 to $36,000, with housing costing an average of $600 per month. Universities and the government both provide scholarships for higher studies. Furthermore, students are permitted to work part-time for 20 hours per week during the school year.
6. Germany
Germany is another excellent country to study microbiology. It is a highly industrialized country with one of the best infrastructures in the world. The country also places a high value on research and development and has made significant contributions to various fields of science and technology.
Microbiology tuition in Germany ranges from $1,000 to $36,000, with students paying less than $1000 at state-funded universities. Housing is estimated to cost $1000 or less per month, depending on the type of housing.
Scholarships are readily available for qualified international students, and they are also permitted to work 120 full days per year on top of their studies.
Check Also: The Best Microbiology Schools in Europe
7. Belgium
Numerous people of Belgian descent have made significant contributions to the field of microbiology, including Marie van Ermengen, Bordet, and Fiers, to name a few. The country values research and encourages excellence in the field by producing excellent and competent microbiologists.
Belgium is another great country to major in microbiology partially because students pay no more than $7,500 per year in tuition and $600 to $1,200 per month in housing. Microbiology studies are available in a variety of types, including short-term courses, diplomas, bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, and doctorates.
Scholarships are available throughout the country, both from the government and the private sector. Furthermore, international students are permitted to work 20 hours per week and can extend their visa for up to 12 months after graduation for work opportunities.
We hope this article on the best countries to study microbiology was informative and insightful. Make sure to also check out the Available Programs for International Students!
