Bachelor of Science (Microbiology)
Introduction
The programme is designed to provide practical and professional expertise in microbial sciences. It equips students to adequately cope with the emerging technologies in microbial manipulation like in the production of biofertilizers, green energy, and environmental bioremediation and protection. The programme aims at producing graduates who can undertake cutting-edge research using current and emerging biochemical and molecular techniques.
Rationale
The programme will provide practical and professional expertise in microbial sciences. It will equip students with training in emerging technologies with requisite competence for diverse fields in microbial research such as in agriculture, healthcare, environmental, engineering and and various types of industries like food and beverage.
Objectives
By the end of the programme, the graduate shall be able to effectively;
- Undertake microbiology based programmmes and projects.
- Conduct and report biomedical laboratory-based investigations for various purposes.
- Promote the creation of innovative approaches to technology in microbiology.
- Undertake education, training and mentorship tasks for microbial science professionals.
- Engage the community in professional development and education in public health, disease control and microbiology-based advances.
- Assume strategic, mid-level management and leadership in fields in microbiology such as research, agriculture, healthcare, higher learning institutions, and various types of industries.
Mode of Delivery and Programme Structure
The programme shall be offered on a Full Time basis. Teaching will be physical (Face to face). The programme will be offered within a period of four academic years, each year comprising two semesters. Semester one runs between September to December and Semester is from January to May. To graduate with a B.Sc Microbiology, the candidate shall have satisfactorily completed 49 Departmental units in addition to the three (3)University common units. All units offered during the first semester within the four years are core. These Shall account for a minimum total of 1820 hours.
Curriculum Highlights
The programme offers units like Microbiological techniques, microbial genetics, bacteria systematics, microbial technology, Quality Assurance and Control in Microbiology Laboratories and mycology among others. In third year, the students must participate in industrial attachment for three (3) months. In the fourth year, a student can opt to carry out a research project in a related area which is equated to two units. Study participate in field trips in relevant industries, research laboratories and other establishments related to the programme.
Admission Requirements
A student wishing to study Bachelor of Science (Microbiology) must satisfy the minimum university requirements and School of Pure and Applied Sciences regulations. A student must have attained a C+ in Biology or Biological Sciences, PLUS at least a C+ in ANY TWO of the following subjects: Physical Sciences, Physics, Chemistry, Geography and Agriculture, at KCSE or equivalent;
OR,
At least 2 principal passes one which must be Biology in the Kenya Advanced Certificate of Education (KACE);
OR,
A C plain in KCSE (or Division III KCE/EACE) with at least credit pass at diploma level in any of the following areas: Education (Biology), Applied Biology, Agriculture, or Microbiology from an institution recognized by the University Senate.
International Students
Before admission into the programme, all international students certificates will have to be evaluated and qualified by the Kenya National Qualifications Authority (KNQA). Apply through QAV Portal: qa.knqa.go.ke
Fee Structure
Full Time; Fees ksh.244,800= Digital ksh.244,800, Non East Africans ksh.306,000 p.a
Career Opportunities
There are several fields that microbiologists pursue careers in. These fields include: - Basic research in the various research institutions in and out of the country, environmental and agricultural fields, food and industrial microbiology; public health; education as trainers in different institutions and also in the pharmaceutical and medical field.
Why choose this programme at KU
At KU you will find highly trained and experienced faculty to provide training and research supervision. Kenyatta University has a well-equipped microbiology laboratory . Students participate in field trips in relevant establishments.