Virology programs teach people how viruses live as parasites in cells and cause diseases. Students learn about various types of viruses. They also study viruses' roles in diseases and their genetics. They learn how to apply the knowledge to topics such as cancer biology.

In 1999, the first cases of West Nile virus were found in the Western Hemisphere. Before that, the virus had appeared in Africa, parts of Asia, and the Middle East. Through mosquito bites, people became infected. Some got "West Nile fever," which is like the flu and usually doesn't cause permanent damage. However, many people, usually those older than 50, became very ill; some even died from swelling in the brain or spine. Virologists, people who study viruses, rushed to study how the disease traveled and how to prevent it. (Luckily, long sleeves and a mosquito repellent is most of what's needed.)

Most people with a degree in virology become professional scientists or professors. As a virologist, you can work for private labs, drug companies, university labs, or medical and graduate schools. You can also work for government health agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control. In addition, you can teach biology and virology at colleges and universities.

In virology programs, you take many science and math courses. You study small organisms such as bacteria, and learn how fungi invade cells and molecules. You study different kinds of diseases and how different viruses cause them. In addition, you study how the body fights viruses and what medicines are used to treat them. Depending on your interests, you can study specific diseases and infections. You can even study how certain diseases and disorders, such as cancer and ulcers, might be spread through a virus. You also learn the role of genetics in making some people more prone to viruses than others.

Typically you become a virologist by going to graduate school after you finish your bachelor's degree. About 10 schools in the U.S. offer virology programs. Most often these are doctoral programs. This means you get your Ph.D. but enter the program with only a bachelor's degree. However, some programs also offer master's degrees. Usually it takes two years to earn your master's degree and three to five years to earn your Ph.D.