Microbes are all around us! They are in our gut, on our skin, and in our noses. They help make our cheese, bread, and wine. They impact our health and daily life and the health of the entire planet. A Master of Science degree in Bacteriology from the University of Wisconsin – Madison will prepare you to tackle this new frontier. Become immersed in cutting-edge research and be taught by award-winning faculty. The flexible program is tailored to each student to help them move forward with their career and educational goals.
If you are looking for a top notch academic program and you value a great place to live, check out The Bacteriology M.S. Program!
30 credits
1.8 years
average duration
Research or Coursework Tracks
Learn More Today!
Alumni Testimonials
“I had an extremely positive experience in the program…I decided to join the coursework pathway of the degree due to my background and experience with research and this track allowed for me to experience a lot of different courses and classes to complete the degree…This program was the necessary step I needed to launch my career in the field.” – Rachel Beers, 2019 Bacteriology MS Graduate
“My 2022-24 Bacteriology M.S. was a deep dive into molecular genetics and microbial physiology in Dr. Briana Burton’s lab. Conducting an independent research project gave me the technical rigor and interdisciplinary mindset that now drive my Ph.D. work in mechanobiology.” – Dominique Smith, 2024 Bacteriology MS Graduate
“The Bacteriology MS program provided the opportunity, education and, experience to thrive in a scientific environment through a combination of exposure to great science, academic rigor, and high standards.” – Aaron Morawski, 2011 Bacteriology MS Graduate
“My time as a master’s student opened a lot of intellectual opportunities for me in the field of Microbiology. The teaching and mentorship I received helped grow and foster my love for drug discovery and pathogenesis.” – Nischala Nadig, 2023 Bacteriology MS Graduate
“Doing my Master’s in Bacteriology was invaluable to me and I still apply many techniques and approaches in my current job. I am hoping to return to graduate school next cycle for a PhD in cancer biology or a similar program to pursue a career in research with clinical trials and to understand what drives aggressive and metastatic resistant cancers.” – Alex Chang, 2023 Bacteriology MS Graduate
Admissions Information
Curious about the requirements for admissions? Check out more information here.
Is the program a good academic fit for you?
- Yes, I am looking for a way to demonstrate academic success for future graduate or professional program applications.
- Yes, I want to advance my career rapidly or reach more advanced opportunities in industry and private sector.
- Yes, I am looking to gain more research experience.
Is the program a good logistical fit for you?
- Yes, the program is flexible* and tailored to each student.
- Yes, as a student, I can obtain an assistantship, work full-time or part-time to financially support my education*. See Funding and Financial aid information.
*Part time is available. Please note that classes are generally during business hours with the expectation you are present. At times, there may be flexibility, but it is a class by class situation.
*Accelerated options are possible.
Which Track is Right for You?
Research Track
The research option serves students who want to improve their research skills, prepare for a career in research and development, or pursue a Ph.D. This option requires you to perform original research and write and defend a thesis, in addition to coursework. Requirements are outlined on the research track page.
A student pursuing the research track must identify a faculty mentor who will support them for their Masters Degree. Our faculty trainer directory can be found here. Please see the “Finding a Research Mentor” section on our Applying to the Program webpage.
Coursework Track
The coursework option serves students who want to acquire knowledge about current topics in microbiology, primarily in a classroom setting. Examples of students who benefit from this option include those currently employed in research who are seeking an advanced degree, lawyers and law students who wish to specialize in biotechnology or environmental law, or students preparing for health professions.
This option requires you to take graduate level coursework and complete a communications milestone. Requirements are outlined on the coursework track page.
