The microbiology graduate program offers broad training that provides our graduates with the flexibility and depth necessary to compete effectively for research positions in universities, industry, and government. Features of the program include instruction on various aspects of microbiology, oral and written communication, laboratory techniques, teaching and research skills, and professional working practices. The Department of Microbiology offers programs of graduate study leading to the MS and PhD degrees in microbiology. The following research fields are represented in the department: microbial physiology, genetics, immunology, parasitology, pathogenic bacteriology, molecular biology, microbial ecology, and environmental microbiology.