PhD Microbiology and Immunology
Course overview
Swansea University’s PhD in Microbiology and Immunology is a three-year doctorate, where students learn about microorganisms, plants, microbes, and how they improve the immune system. This course enables healthcare professionals to design treatment methods which purify the body and make the gut stronger.
In this programme, students gain expertise in areas such as immune signalling and pathogen interactions, while developing critical thinking, laboratory, and communication skills. They will also learn through modules how cells develop and travel within the body, alongside how pathogens behave, and how the host defends itself against them.
The course develops students' skills in research, writing, networking, and communication. These help them to function in academia, government organisations, healthcare, and biotechnology firms. Learning in this course is through lectures, practical classes, small-group learning sessions, workshops, and seminars. Assessment methods include a written thesis and an oral examination.
Entry requirements
Applicants must submit one reference to the Faculty as part of the application process. Admission decisions are made after reviewing the reference, research proposal, interview, and the applicant’s professional experience.
Grade Requirements:
- Applicants for the PhD programme should hold an undergraduate degree at a 2:1 level and a master’s degree. However, those with a UK first-class honours degree (or international equivalent) who do not have a master’s may still be considered.
English Proficiency:
- International students are required to achieve an overall IELTS score of 6.5. Equivalent qualifications such as the TOEFL iBT and PTE Academic are also accepted.
Scholarships
Chevening Scholarships
International Excellence Scholarships
Scholarships are awarded as a discount on tuition fees worth up to £5,000 in the first year of study, with a further £2,000 awarded in Year 2 (for £5,000 awardees only, subject to achieving a 70% average).
International Postgraduate Alumni Bursaries
First Class - £5,000 per year; Second Class, First division - £3,000 per year; Second Class, Second division - £1,000 per year; Taught Masters to Research Degree - £3,000 per year subject to satisfactory progress.
Swansea University International Postgraduate Research Excellence Scholarship (SUIPRES)
The SUIPRES Scholarship covers the difference between the International and the Home tuition fee rate for the duration of the PhD/Professional Doctorate programme.
Swansea University Sport Scholarship
Financial support (of up to £2000).
Thrive Bursary
The Thrive bursary is a £4,000 reduction in tuition fees for the first year of study, with a progression bursary of £2,000 in subsequent years (applied as a discount off tuition fees).
Up to £4,000
Career opportunities
Graduates of the PhD in Microbiology and Immunology from Swansea University are prepared for careers in roles such as:
- Microbiology Research Scientist
- Immunologist
- Biotechnology Researcher
- Public Health Researcher
- Medical Science Liaison
Cost of study
International postgraduate students enrolled in the PhD in Microbiology and Immunology at Swansea University are required to pay a tuition fee of £24,400.
Admission
Submit your application directly through Swansea University’s online portal. For personalised guidance and expert support, contact an AHZ counsellor today.
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