Programs in medical microbiology and bacteriology teach people how bacteria cause human disease. Students learn the chemistry and physiology of bacteria. They also learn to identify new or mutated forms of bacteria.

Have you ever put your own hand under a microscope? From far away, your fingers, nails, and fuzzy hairs look just like what they are. Close up, it's a different story. Thousands (if not millions) of small living things can be found on our hands. Bacteria, both good and bad, are found on and in our bodies (not to mention, everywhere else). Some bacteria cause disease, while others fight or even prevent it. People who are microbiologists and bacteriologists study different varieties of bacteria and how they can be used.

Programs in medical microbiology and bacteriology usually require you to take a number of courses in biology, chemistry, and math. You take courses about living organisms and how they cause people to get sick. This includes courses in microbiology, pathology, and immunology. You also take organic chemistry, biochemistry, and statistics. In addition, you also study how labs work and how to perform research. You learn how to study blood and other bodily fluids. You learn how to analyze hormones, blood sugar, and how to tell if a person has a condition such as anemia or cystic fibrosis.

About 90 four-year schools offer programs in medical microbiology and bacteriology. Often they are offered through biology programs. In many cases you get your bachelor's in biology with a concentration in microbiology and bacteriology. In addition, most community colleges offer two-year programs in biology or chemistry, where credits can be transferred to a four-year college or university.

A number of schools also offer graduate degrees in medical microbiology and bacteriology. Often you need a master's degree for entry-level work in the field. Typically it takes two years to complete your master's degree and three to five years for your doctorate. You need at least a bachelor's degree to apply to graduate school.

Most people with degrees in medical microbiology and bacteriology work as researchers for laboratories. This means you work for medical centers, universities, or drug or chemical companies. You can also work for government agencies, such as the National Institutes of Health or the Centers for Disease Control.