Microbiology & Cell Science

Microbiology Online text with microbes in the background

MICROBIOLOGY & CELL SCIENCE ONLINE GRADUATE PROGRAMS

The University of Florida Department of Microbiology and Cell Science offers several online programs, including two distinct Master of Science concentrations along with graduate certificates in relevant topics. Built for working professionals, each program is designed to be completed entirely online with flexible scheduling and asynchronous classes. This graduate program offers access to UF's world-renowned research faculty without putting life on hold. Every class is taught by professors experienced in developing online courses and adapting to emerging technology. Students will acquire an in-depth understanding of the fundamentals of microbiology, virology, immunology, cellular biology, molecular biology, infectious disease, antimicrobial resistance, microbiomes, bioinformatics, and much more.

Blue monochrome image of bacteria under a microscope.

Medical Microbiology and Biochemistry

Master's Degree and Graduate Certificate Available

Elevate your career as a health professional with an advanced understanding of infectious agents, immune responses, and mechanisms of disease treatment.

Microbiome in Health and Disease

Master's Degree and Graduate Certificate Available

Join the cutting-edge of pharmaceutical and biotechnology research with advanced insight into the bacterial communities that play an integral role in human health.

Orange monotone image of fungi spores under a microscope.

Environmental Microbiology

Graduate Certificate Available

Make a global impact by becoming an expert in the complexities of microbial ecosystems on and off this planet.

Blue monochrome image of computer code with motion blur.

Microbial and Cellular Data Science

Distance Ph.D Available

Perfect for those with a background in biology and computer science, this innovative program allows working professionals to earn their doctoral degrees while contributing to research remotely.

How will this help my career?

Let's look at the numbers. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, the median earnings for those with at least a master's degree in any subject were $74,600, which is 21% higher than those with a bachelor's degree at $61,600. The median earning for a microbiologist was $81,990 per year, which is 33% higher than the national median for a bachelor's degree.

However, with a master's in microbiology, you can also pursue a career in government, industry, research, teaching, healthcare and more. STEM-related occupations are projected to grow by 10.8% from 2022 to 2032, compared to a 2.3% growth rate for non-STEM professions. In fact, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the occupation of epidemiologist is due to grow 27% over the next ten years. A master's degree in microbiology can prepare you for a job in this advancing field. Check out our Careers page to learn more.

What is a graduate certificate?

Graduate certificates are 11-13 credit programs (3-5 courses) which can be completed in as few as two semesters. A graduate certificate provides you with knowledge and a credential in a specialized area: demonstrating to current and future employers that you're committed to learning new things about your field. Credits earned in one of the graduate certificate programs can be transferred to our Master of Science program.

What if I want to take only one class?

Want to explore online learning before committing to a master’s degree or graduate certificate program? Need to boost your GPA for your master's application? Just want to increase your knowledge on a certain subject? Take up to 15 credits as a non-degree student! Enrolling as a non-degree-seeking student does not guarantee acceptance into our master's and graduate certificate programs; however, if you are accepted, you have the option of transferring up to 7 credits.