There are four items to consider when choosing the best microbiology colleges: admissions requirements, accreditation, job placement opportunities, and faculty. Microbiology colleges are usually part of the faculty of medicine or health sciences in a larger community college. Microbiology colleges provide the training necessary to become a microbiology technician or technologist.
A microbiology technician typically works in a laboratory, analyzing microscopic organisms, some of which are only one cell in size. Many microbiology technicians find employment opportunities in university laboratories, pharmaceutical companies, or medical research laboratories. In addition, many antibacteria or fungal product suppliers hire graduates of microbiology colleges to work as sales staff.
In order to qualify for admission to microbiology colleges, a combination of high marks in biology and English high school courses is required. Microbiology technicians have very little professional interaction with people outside their field and usually spend their day working in a laboratory setting. Many colleges provide credits for prior learning or work experience in either health services or the laboratory sector.
If you are looking at the best microbiology colleges in the country or state, take note that the admissions standard is higher to reflect the increased demand. Only students with the very best combination of marks and work experience are offered admissions. If you do not have the very best marks in your class, think about applying to schools that offer programs to support your scholastic success. This may include residence arrangements, opportunities to work on campus, or other items that support your overall life.
When looking for microbiology colleges, check the accreditation status. An accredited school has been reviewed by an independent third party. Courses from an accredited school can be transferred to other post-secondary institutions. This is very important, as more than 20 percent of all students transfer schools before they graduate. Accredited schools are able to offer students access to government student aid programs.
Schools with connections to industry and job placement programs provide the best combination of education and experience. The best programs have a range of placement positions in different areas and settings. The broader the experience, the better it will appear on your resume. Make sure to ask for letters of recommendations from each placement. The staff members may have moved on to other employment when you are looking for work. A written letter will be accepted by most employers as a reference.
Most microbiology colleges provide the biographies of their faculty or instructors on their websites. The information provided typically includes the academic credentials, research focus, publications, and any awards they have received. Look at the type of experience they have and the range of settings.