Be a microbiology-driven scientist with UTAR

MICROORGANISMS are the most ancient life forms on the planet, and they have a direct impact on our lives every day.

They are critical to the planet’s well-being. Microbes such as bacteria, viruses, protozoa, fungi and algae are studied by microbiologists.

Microbiology has grown in importance in recent years due to the role of microbes in current topics such as biofuels and bioenergy, infectious diseases and epidemics, production of lifesaving drugs, food production and safety, biotechnology, bioterrorism, and waste or pollution management.

Parked under the Faculty of Science, UTAR Bachelor of Science (Honours) Microbiology intends to provide students with fundamental knowledge of microorganisms as well as aspects of physiology, immunology, biochemistry, genetics, molecular biology, medicine, and industrial applications.

The programme also aims to produce graduates who are able to utilise microbiology knowledge to generate value-added ideas, products and services in their chosen career path; apply recent technological advancements to address commercial, ethical, social and legal issues and challenges related to microbiology; and practise lifelong learning and management skills in agricultural, industrial, medical or entrepreneurial fields.

Moreover, students are also introduced to the fundamental concepts and techniques of microbiology, including how to control microbial growth and harness it to produce useful products in industries, solve environmental problems, and understand its importance in medicine, waste management and biosafety.

When asked about the importance of microbiology, Faculty of Science’s Head of Department of Biological Science Dr Nor Ismaliza binti Mohd Ismail explained, “Microbiology research has been and continues to be central to meeting many of the current global aspirations and challenges, such as maintaining food, water and energy security for a healthy population on a habitable Earth.

Microbiology research will also help to answer big questions such as ‘How diverse is life on Earth’ and ‘Does life exist elsewhere in the Universe’. By applying microbes in a range of controlled settings, microbiologists can harness their power for beneficial use in areas as diverse as healthcare, food production and agriculture.”

Upon completion of the programme, students will be able to demonstrate competency in understanding the concepts and applications of microbiology, demonstrate problem-solving skills individually or via team effort, apply theoretical knowledge and practical skills to conduct guided research, demonstrate the ability to seek and provide solutions to address challenges and concerns in microbiology, demonstrate selfdirected lifelong learning attitude towards professional development pathways and entrepreneurship, use digital skills to analyse, interpret and present data, and communicate ideas effectively, both orally and in writing.

The UTAR Bachelor of Science (Honours) Microbiology programme is fully accredited, and it would take three years for a full-time student to complete the programme.

Microbiology is a valuable and versatile degree that can open up a number of career paths.

Job options related to microbiology include but not limited to food manufacturing, healthcare service and industry, quality control, environmental management, forensic investigation, education, etc.

UTAR offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in areas including Accountancy, Actuarial Science, Applied Mathematics, Arts, Chinese Studies, Malaysia Studies, Business and Economics, Biotechnology, Engineering and Build Environment, Information and Communication Technology, Life and Physical Sciences, Medicine and Health Sciences, Media and Journalism, Education and General Studies, and Agriculture and Food Science.

The university also engages in the provision and conduct of research, consultation, management and leadership training, and other related educational services at its Sungai Long and Kampar campuses in Malaysia.

For more information, please visit www.utar.edu.my or call 05468 8888 (Kampar Campus), 039086 0288 (Sungai Long Campus).