Microbiology Minor
Build a working knowledge of microorganisms and their role in health, disease, and the environment — and add a credential that strengthens pre-health, biology, and lab science degrees.
Program Overview
The Microbiology Minor at Shawnee State University is designed for students interested in deepening their understanding of microorganisms and their role in human health, disease, and the environment. Open to students in any major, this minor provides an excellent foundation for careers or advanced study in healthcare, biomedical sciences, diagnostics, research, and public health.
At A Glance
Microbiology Minor
Degree
Minor
Format
On campus
Length
Complete alongside your major
Credits
19
Why Study Microbiology Minor at Shawnee University
You'll study what's actually in clinical and research labs: bacteria, viruses, parasites, and the immune system's response to them.
Coursework includes hands-on diagnostic and clinical microbiology — not just lectures about pathogens, but the techniques used to identify them.
The minor is built for students heading toward medical, biomedical, or lab certification pathways.
Course choices map to those programs' expectations. You'll learn in small classes from faculty who work directly with you on technique, results interpretation, and graduate-school prep.
The Microbiology minor is 19 credit hours covering microbiology, parasitology, diagnostic and clinical microbiology, virology, and immunology.
- BIOL 3750 Microbiology
- BIOL 4680 Parasitology or MLTC 2999 Topics in Med Lab: Parasitology
- BIOL 4760 Diagnostic Microbiology or MLTC 2180 Clinical Microbiology
- BIOL 4765 Virology
- BIOL 4780 Immunology
- Biology, chemistry, and health science majors
- Pre-med, pre-dental, pre-PA, and pre-pharmacy students
- Students considering medical laboratory certification pathways
- Anyone planning graduate work in biomedical research, public health, or infectious disease
Microbiology coursework and labs are taught in Massie Hall on the Portsmouth campus, with shared courses in the Medical Laboratory Technology program.
Microbiology Minor Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The 3000- and 4000-level courses build on General Biology and General Chemistry. Plan early so the prerequisites land in the right semesters.
The MLTC options exist as alternates to certain BIOL courses. Talk with your advisor about prerequisites and seat availability.
It's a strong foundation, but certification typically requires a specific program of study. Confirm requirements with the certifying body and your advisor.
