MSc Microbiology

Two-year, four-semester MSc Microbiology program under Tribhuvan University designed to produce research-oriented microbiologists, molecular biologists, and applied scientists equipped for laboratory, industrial, clinical, and academic roles.

Curriculum follows an updated semester-system with 64 credits emphasizing advanced microbiology, molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, immunology, biotechnology, and track-specific specialization. The program integrates theory, intensive practical work, research-based learning, and a dissertation. Students select one specialization—Medical, Public Health, Food & Industrial, or Agricultural Microbiology—from the second semester onward. Final semester is fully research-oriented with internship and dissertation components. The structure aligns with international standards and prepares graduates for scientific, industrial, academic, and diagnostic sectors.

Curricular structure (indicative)

Semester focus

Track options

• Medical Microbiology
• Public Health Microbiology
• Food and Industrial Microbiology
• Agricultural Microbiology

Total credits: 64
Normal duration: 24 months
Maximum duration: 60 months

Features

• Revised semester-system curriculum with strong research emphasis
• 64-credit structure combining theory and advanced practical work
• English as medium of instruction
• Interactive lectures, case studies, presentations, and project-based learning
• Attendance requirement: 80% mandatory (70% with medical exemption)
• Excursion recommended after second semester
• Laboratory-intensive training aligned with international microbiology standards

Eligibility

Passed B.Sc. Microbiology or equivalent degree from Tribhuvan University or any TU-recognized university.

Entrance examination

• Full marks: 100
• Duration: 2 hours
• Format: Objective/MCQ covering TU B.Sc. Microbiology syllabus
• Pass mark: 35%
• Merit calculation:
  • 20% B.Sc. marks
  • 80% entrance exam score

Seat allocation (TU constituent campuses):

• 80% open competition
• 20% reserved (inclusive) category

Examination and grading

• Internal assessment: 40%
  • Research assignment, tests, presentations, practical performance
• Final semester exam: 60%
• Pass mark: 50% (theory and practical)
• Grading scale: 0–4 GPA
• Minimum grade per course: B- (GPA 2.7)

Admission process 

• Verify B.Sc. Microbiology eligibility
• Sit for MSc Entrance Exam (TU IOST)
• Achieve minimum 35% pass mark
• Merit-based selection per TU guidelines
• Submit required documents and complete enrollment

Job prospects

• Lecturer in microbiology (TU and affiliated institutions)
• Research scientist in medical, industrial, agricultural, or biotechnology labs
• Public health microbiologist
• Clinical laboratory technologist
• Food and industrial microbiology professional
• Research assistant in genetics, molecular biology, and biochemistry
• Biotech and pharmaceutical industry roles
• Careers in pathogen monitoring, diagnostics, vaccine development, fermentation technology, environmental microbiology, and agricultural biotechnology