Bachelor Of Science - Microbiology And Immunology (Co-op) (Honours) at UBC - The University of British Columbia - Program overview

Program overview

Admission Requirements

Intakes

Last updated on 2025-12-05

Program overview

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Immunology at the University of British Columbia (UBC) is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the roles of bacteria, fungi, and viruses in human health, disease, and the environment. This program emphasizes foundational knowledge in microbiology and immunology, equipping students with the skills necessary to excel in various fields related to life sciences. Students will explore the intricate mechanisms of innate and adaptive immunity, gaining insights into how these systems protect against infections, cancers, and autoimmune diseases. The program also prepares graduates for further studies in medical, dental, law, or veterinary medicine.

Program Structure

The Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Immunology program is structured to provide a robust educational experience over a 4-year period. Key features of the program include:

Co-op Option: Students have the opportunity to combine their studies with full-time, paid work experiences at leading local and international organizations.
Honours Option: Students can pursue an intense specialization in microbiology and immunology, allowing for a deeper understanding of the subject matter.
Research Opportunities: The program emphasizes hands-on laboratory work and authentic course-based research experiences, enabling students to engage in cutting-edge research.
Flexible Specialization: Students can choose concentrations in areas such as biotechnology, molecular microbiology, environmental microbiology, and virology.
Combined Majors: There is an option to pair this program with Computer Science, Oceanography, or Biotechnology for a combined major/honours.

Throughout the program, students will develop essential laboratory skills, including bacterial and eukaryotic cell culture, genomics, and data science, preparing them for a successful career in the life sciences.

Featured Experiences

The Microbiology and Immunology program at UBC offers a variety of unique experiences that enhance the educational journey:

State-of-the-Art Facilities: Students will work in modern teaching labs located in the new Biosciences Teaching building.
Undergraduate Research Opportunities: Students can participate in directed studies courses and engage in research projects with faculty members.
Co-op Work Experiences: Opportunities to gain practical experience in academic, industrial, and government labs.
Student-Driven Programs: Involvement in initiatives such as the International Genetically Engineered Machines (iGEM) and BioMod teams.
Seminar Courses: In the final year, students will engage in seminar courses focused on recent research discoveries in microbiology and immunology.

Career Options

Graduates of the Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Immunology program can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada, including:

Research Associate: Work in laboratories conducting experiments and analyzing data related to microbiology and immunology.
Dentist: Provide dental care and treatment, utilizing knowledge of microbiology to understand oral health.
Medical Student: Continue education in medical school to become a physician, focusing on health and disease management.
Graduate Student: Pursue advanced studies in microbiology, immunology, or related fields at prestigious institutions.
Law Student: Enter law school to specialize in health law or intellectual property related to biotechnology.

These career options reflect the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions to health, science, and society.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.

Visit UBC - The University of British Columbia official website

Last updated on 2025-12-05

Program overview

Academic Requirements

To apply for the Bachelor of Science in Microbiology and Immunology program at the University of British Columbia, prospective students should be aware of the following Academic Requirements:

Minimum GPA: Specific GPA requirements are not mentioned, but students are encouraged to maintain a strong academic record.
International Students:
- Students from international high schools must meet specific criteria, which may include equivalent courses to Canadian high school standards.
- For students from Vietnam and other Asian countries, it is essential to ensure that your qualifications align with UBC's requirements. Please consult with LOA Portal's advisors for detailed guidance.
Prerequisite Courses:
- Grade 11 or equivalent Chemistry.
- Grade 11 or equivalent Physics (may be waived with grades of 5 in IB Chemistry and in your IB Mathematics course).
Transcripts: Transcripts may be required to be evaluated by WES in some cases.
Application Deadline: While specific deadlines are not mentioned, it is advisable to apply as soon as possible to ensure your application is considered.

For any clarification and support regarding the application process, please reach out to LOA Portal's advisors who are ready to assist you.

Language Requirements

English is the primary language of instruction at UBC. All prospective students are required to demonstrate a minimum level of English before they’re admitted.

There are nine ways to meet UBC’s minimum English Language Admission Standard (ELAS) for an undergraduate degree on the Vancouver campus:

Complete four or more consecutive years of recognized, full-time education in English within Canada immediately prior to attending UBC.
Complete four or more consecutive years of full-time education in English in a country other than Canada where English is the principal language. These four years must be immediately prior to attending UBC.
Achieve a final exam grade of 70% or better on the provincial examination portion of Alberta English Language Arts 30-1, BC English 12 (achieved August 2019 or earlier), or equivalents.
Achieve a final grade of 4 or better on Advanced Placement (AP) English Language & Composition or AP Literature & Composition; or achieve a final grade of 5 or better on International Baccalaureate English A: Language and Literature or English A: Literature (higher-level or standard-level).
Achieve the competence standard indicated by one of the tests of English language proficiency that evaluates skills in listening, reading, speaking, and writing.
Successfully complete the equivalent of six credits of transferrable post-secondary first-year English studies at a recognized university in an English-speaking country.
Graduate from a recognized degree program at an accredited university at which English is the primary language of instruction in a country where English is the principal language.
Attend four or more years at an eligible international secondary school that uses English as the language of instruction but operates in a country where the primary language is not English.
Achieve a UBC Certificate in English Language or CEL by completing Level 600 and Level 650 of the UBC English Language Institute’s English for Academic Purposes program on UBC’s Vancouver campus.

If you are fully proficient in English but do not meet any of the nine options listed above, you may request a waiver for the English Language Admission Standard.

Please check with our team for more details.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors. The listed minimum requirements are a guideline and do not guarantee admission. Do not worry, we will notify you of any changes during the application process.

Not meeting the minimum language requirements?

You may still be able to apply!