Marine Science - Microbiology and Immunology
The Marine Science – Microbiology and Immunology program at the University of Miami provides students with an in-depth understanding of the complex microbial ecosystems in marine environments and their interactions with larger biological systems. This four-year Bachelor of Science program integrates microbiology, immunology, and marine science, offering students the scientific knowledge and laboratory skills necessary to study microorganisms and their role in oceanic health and disease. Coursework emphasizes microbial physiology, genetics, immunology, virology, and aquatic microbiology, equipping students to analyze microbial dynamics and immune responses within marine organisms. By combining hands-on laboratory experience with theoretical instruction, the program ensures students gain the practical and conceptual tools needed to address pressing scientific questions in ocean health, biotechnology, and environmental sustainability.
Students engage in rigorous experimental work, including culturing techniques, molecular biology methods, and immunological assays, alongside fieldwork in coastal and open ocean settings. Faculty mentorship encourages participation in research projects that investigate topics such as pathogen-host interactions, microbial ecology, and disease outbreaks in aquatic species. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary collaboration, allowing students to integrate knowledge from chemistry, molecular biology, environmental science, and computational biology. Through these experiences, students develop strong analytical, experimental, and communication skills while fostering a deep appreciation for the ecological and biomedical importance of marine microorganisms. Graduates leave the program with both scientific expertise and critical thinking skills, prepared for careers in research, environmental monitoring, or further graduate studies in microbiology, immunology, or marine biology.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Marine Science - Microbiology and Immunology
- Degree Type: Bachelor of Science
- Duration: 4 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 05 January 2026
- Location: University of Miami, United States
- Field of Study: Microbiology
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Year 1 – Foundations in Biology and Chemistry
• General Biology with Laboratory
• General Chemistry with Laboratory
• Introduction to Marine Science
• Calculus for Life Sciences
• Introduction to Scientific Communication
Year 2 – Core Microbiology and Immunology
• Microbiology I & II
• Immunology I
• Cell and Molecular Biology
• Biostatistics for Marine Science
• Marine Ecology
Year 3 – Advanced Topics and Laboratory Techniques
• Marine Microbial Ecology
• Advanced Immunology
• Molecular Genetics and Genomics
• Environmental Microbiology
• Laboratory Methods in Marine Science
Year 4 – Integration, Research, and Capstone
• Senior Research Project or Thesis
• Pathogen-Host Interactions in Marine Systems
• Marine Biotechnology
• Seminar in Microbiology and Immunology
• Internship or Field-Based Research
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program are well-prepared for careers in marine biotechnology, environmental monitoring, aquaculture, public health research, and government or NGO environmental agencies. Many alumni work as research associates in academic laboratories, marine research centers, biomedical companies, or aquatic health organizations, applying their expertise to study pathogens, microbiomes, and immune processes in marine ecosystems. The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate studies in marine microbiology, immunology, oceanography, or biomedical sciences, preparing students for advanced research, policy-making, or teaching roles. The interdisciplinary nature of the program ensures graduates are versatile, able to navigate laboratory research, field studies, and applied problem-solving in both ecological and biomedical contexts.
Why Choose This Program
The Marine Science – Microbiology and Immunology program at the University of Miami offers a unique opportunity to study microorganisms within the context of complex marine ecosystems while gaining critical laboratory and research experience. Students benefit from access to state-of-the-art laboratories, faculty mentorship, and field research opportunities that foster applied scientific skills alongside theoretical understanding. The curriculum’s combination of microbiology, immunology, and marine science prepares students to address real-world challenges, from tracking environmental pathogens to contributing to the development of marine-based biomedical innovations. With an emphasis on interdisciplinary collaboration, experiential learning, and ethical scientific practice, this program equips graduates to become leaders in research, environmental stewardship, and scientific innovation, offering a clear pathway toward careers that make a tangible impact on both human and ecosystem health.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 305 284 2000
Email: admissions@miami.edu
Address: University of Miami, 1320 S Dixie Hwy, Coral Gables, FL 33146, United States
