Tips for Preparing Microbiology

Introduction

COVID-19 has made the world realize how crucial the study of even the most basic of sciences is, for the survival of humanity. Studying microscopic organisms that we cannot see with naked eye has become the need of the hour. This is where microbiology comes into the picture. Microbiology is a subject that deals with microscopic living organisms like viruses, fungi, and bacteria. It studies their ecology, evolution, behavior, physiology, pathology, and biochemistry.

It is a branch of biology, widely most popular among science students. Students who find microbiology appealing and aim to pursue a career in it, should know the basics of microbiology, to prepare for their future growth. 

Keeping this in mind, we’ve put together tips to study microbiology. In this article, you will find outlined all essential tips to help you prepare for studying Microbiology. 

What are the Branches of Microbiology?

First things first, you must know the different branches of Microbiology. 

The specializations of Microbiology are divided into two parts, namely Taxonomy and Research. Here’s an understanding of the division of subjects under each part – 

Taxonomy

• Virology – Virology is the study of different types of viruses. 
• Immunology – This subject deals with the study of the immune system. It studies the complex relationship between pathogens and their hosts.
• Bacteriology – Students study the different types of bacteria in this branch.
• Mycology – It deals with the study of fungi like molds and yeasts.
• Nematology – This branch deals with the nematodes of roundworms.
• Parasitology – Students who are interested in studying parasites, opt for this branch.
• Protozoology – Students learn about single-celled organisms in this branch. In other words, they study protozoa under this stream.
• Phycology – Phycology is concerned with the study of algae.

Type of Research

• Astromicrobiology – This branch deals with the origin of life and extraterrestrial life.
• Cellular Microbiology – Students study the function and structure of microbial cells under this branch.
• Evolutionary Microbiology – Here, one gets to study the evolution of microorganisms.
• Systems Microbiology – Systems microbiology is about the computational/mathematical modelling of microbiological systems.
• Other Branches – This branch includes Microbial Ecology, Microbial Physiology, and Microbial genetics.

Courses in Microbiology

Students who wish to study Microbiology have several course options. The best part is, the majority of these courses are available both online and offline. However, one must connect with the requisite college authorities to know more about the available courses and their modes. 

Provided below are the course options available for students, in Microbiology – 

Certificate Programs 

Many top colleges and universities offer certificate programs in Microbiology. The duration of these programs can range from a few days to a few months. The popular subjects in this are Virology and Bacterial Study. Students who cannot opt for full-time programs also have the option of opting for online certificate courses. An online exam will be held at the end of the program. However, certificates are given only to the students who have scored above the minimum passing marks.

Diploma and PG Diploma Courses 

Students and working professionals, desirous of undertaking further studies in specific branches of study, typically opt for 1-2 year Diploma and PG Diploma Courses in Microbiology. Popular subjects in these courses are Microbial Genetics, Molecular Enzymology, Bioenergetics, and Enzyme Technology.

Bachelor Courses 

These are full-time three-year undergraduate science courses. One may either opt for B.Sc Microbiology or B.Sc. (Hons.) Microbiology. Some colleges also offer integrated courses which may take longer to complete, i.e., B.Sc. and PG Diploma or B.Sc. and M.Sc. 

Master Courses 

Are you aiming for further specialisation in Microbiology? If yes, the field of study fit for you would be undertaking a postgraduate course. Postgraduate courses in microbiology include M.Sc. Microbiology, M.Sc. in Clinical Microbiology, or M.Sc. in Environmental Microbiology. These courses are also helpful for students and professionals planning to enter the research field.

Doctorate Programs 

Students that are aiming to obtain in-depth knowledge of, and expertise in Microbiology, typically opt for Doctorate Programs, for example, PhD in Applied Microbiology, Virology, etc. Please note that the eligibility criteria for Doctorate programs may differ from college to college. This is why it is important to check the course before applying for the program.

Top College to Study Microbiology in India

Students wishing to make it big in Microbiology should always aim for the best colleges in the country. Pursuing Microbiology courses from the best college will give them an edge in their career. Many colleges conduct entrance exams to screen a candidate’s capability for Microbiology courses. 

Here is a compilation of the top 10 colleges that offer the best Microbiology courses in India – 

1. St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai
2. The Oxford College of Science, Bengaluru
3. Madras Christian College, Chennai
4. Mount Carmel College, Bengaluru
5. Fergusson College, Pune
6. St. Xavier’s College, Kolkata
7. Ethiraj College for Women, Chennai
8. Elphinstone College, Mumbai
9. Dolphin (PG) Institute of Biomedical and Natural Sciences, Dehradun
10. St. Francis College for Women, Hyderabad

Skills Required in the Field of Microbiology 

Microbiology is  highly crucial subject in respect of studying MBBS. Like any other field, it demands specific skills and traits. These skills can give a student an added advantage during job screenings and allow them to boost their chances of selection into their desired course. 

If you are planning to study Microbiology in the future, having the following skills could give you an edge as a Microbiology student:

• Interpersonal and presentation skills
• Excellent in mathematical concepts
• Analytical skills
• Data visualization
• Effective communication skills
• Knowledge of Query, Scientific, Medical and Spreadsheet software
• Lab experience and an eye for detail
• Knowledge of specialized equipment and microscopes

Scope of Microbiology

The scope of microbiology is impressive as it is an inevitable part of pharmacy, clinical research, medicine, dairy, agriculture, nanotechnology, and chemical technology, to name a few. Microbiology graduates have the capability to make a career in both the research, and non-research sectors.

Many domestic and international companies look to hire dynamic microbiology graduates, for challenging profiles. Here are the top 5 career options for microbiology graduates:

1. Microbiologist
2. Biomedical Scientist
3. Medical Technologist
4. Food Technologist
5. Pharmacologist

Tips to Prepare for Microbiology

Microbiology might seem like a tricky subject to crack initially. However, the right approach can make things easy for you. Here are some tips to prepare for Microbiology – 

Get your Basics Right

Microbiology can be a complex subject if you do not get your basics right. In other words, you cannot expect to undergo a smooth ride in the field, unless you have an excellent hold on basic science fundamentals. So make sure that you have decent knowledge of various concepts used in this field. You may also approach mentors and teachers for guidance on getting your basics right. 

Identify the Right Subjects 

Microbiology comes with several specializations. It is imperative to pick the right subject combination that has the potential to offer you a bright professional career. Ensure that you opt for a specialization that interests you, and gives you high demand in the market in terms of a professional career. 

Understand the Industry Practices 

The field of microbiology is witnessing a tremendous boom post COVID-19. But this does not mean that you can blindly step into this field without knowing about its industry practices. Students should connect with industry experts to understand the norms and demands of this domain.

Refer to the Best Books 

Books are a student’s best companions in learning microbiology. Make sure you trust the best textbooks in the industry. Here is a list of the best microbiology textbooks that will help you gain in-depth knowledge of the subject:

o   Microbiology: An Introduction, 13^th Edition by Gerard J, Funke, Tortora, Berdell R, and Christine L. Case

o   Brock Biology of Microorganisms, 14^th Edition by Michael T. Madigan, John M. Martinko, Daniel H. Buckley, Kelly S. Bender, Thomas Brock and David A Stahl.

o   Prescott’s Microbiology, 10^th Edition by Joanne Willey, Christopher J. Woolverton, and Linda Sherwood.

o   Greenwood Medical Microbiology, 18^th Edition by Richard C.B. Slack, David Greenwood, Will l Irving, and Michael R. Barer.

Complete Prerequisites 

Please understand that since microbiology is not an introductory subject, one needs to gain certain skills, traits, and educational qualifications to study it. Ensure that you know the admission eligibility criteria and curriculum details of different microbiology courses.

Join a Coaching Institute 

One of the best ways to prepare for microbiology is by joining a reputed coaching institute. Here, you will get the right path to follow your dreams under the guidance of experienced faculty. Last but most important, you will also get to understand the scope and demand of this subject.

Takeaway

Excited to step into the world of microbiology? Trust the best when it comes to shaping your career in the right way. DBMCI or Dr Bhatia’s Medical Coaching Institute is one of the first medical coaching centres in India.

With the best faculty on board, study material, and excellent infrastructure, DBMCI helps students in realising their dreams of having a flourishing and successful career in microbiology.

As one of the top PG medical entrance coaching institutes that conducts a series of weekly, cumulative, topic-wise, and complete tests, DBMCI also provides video content, custom question bank modules, and updated question banks for 360° preparation in microbiology.

As far as courses are concerned, DBMCI offers several courses including fundamental, pre-foundation, and final year courses in microbiology. Connect with DBMCI today to identify the right specialization for you. Fulfil your dream of becoming a successful microbiologist!