Entry requirements

In order to be admitted to an LSHTM master's degree programme, an applicant must:

  • hold either a first degree at Second Class Honours (2:2) standard in a relevant discipline, or a degree in medicine recognised by the UK General Medical Council (GMC) for the purposes of practising medicine in the UK, or another degree of equivalent standard awarded by an overseas institution recognised by UK ENIC or the GMC.

or

  • hold a professional qualification appropriate to the programme of study to be followed obtained by written examinations and judged by LSHTM to be equivalent to a Second Class Honours (2:2) degree or above.

or

  • have relevant professional experience or training which is judged by LSHTM to be equivalent to a Second Class Honours (2:2) degree or above.

If you have not previously studied in the UK, you can check our guide to international equivalent qualifications for our master's degrees.

Relevant subjects and appropriate qualifications for the MSc Medical Microbiology include microbiology, biology, molecular biology, medicine and nursing. Other life science qualifications will be considered subject to evidence within transcripts of sufficient microbiology exposure (please make this evidence clear within the application). Biomedical scientists and students with research experience (e.g. as research assistants) are also encouraged to apply.

English language requirements

As part of the application process, applicants are required to demonstrate how they meet LSHTM's minimum English Language requirements.

Intercalating students

You will need the equivalent of a bachelor's degree to undertake an MSc. This will usually require you to have a BSc degree or have completed the first three years of your medical degree. More information on intercalating an MSc at LSHTM.

Find out more about the MSc Medical Microbiology entry requirements on the LSHTM website.

Months of entry

September

Course content

The world is facing an unprecedented threat from infectious diseases due to the challenges around a mobile population, antimicrobial resistance, rapid urbanisation and climate change. Study MSc Medical Microbiology with international experts working to understand and tackle these urgent threats.
Over one year (full time) or two years (split study), you’ll spend up to 50% of your course gaining essential practical skills in the laboratory. You’ll develop close working relationships with inspiring lecturers from across LSHTM as well as academia, the NHS, UK Health Security Agency, World Health Organization, and our own Medical Research Council Units in The Gambia and Uganda.
Join us to gain unique insights into current global challenges and prepare for a career where your passion for pathogens and problem-solving can make a significant contribution to the future of planetary health.
Did you know: LSHTM has been ranked 3rd in the world for infectious diseases (US News Best Global Universities Ranking by Subject 2025-26).
What you will learn
  • Understand pathogenic microorganisms in depth, through hands-on laboratory experience
  • Study microbial pathogenesis and choose to explore specialised areas such as mycology and pathogen genomics
  • Build on specialist diagnostic, research, and analytic skills to assess and critique approaches to the prevention of disease
  • Develop professional skills of critical thinking and analysis, written and verbal presentations, and intellectual independence
  • Learn through a small, culturally diverse peer group
  • Choose a research project abroad with our partners across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

Find out more about the MSc Medical Microbiology programme on the LSHTM website.

Information for international students

The final closing dates for all taught Master’s applications for entry in the 2025/26 academic year is Sunday 27 July 2025 at 23:59 UK time for all students requiring a Student visa.

Find out more about the MSc Medical Microbiology programme on the LSHTM website.

Fees and funding

UK students
Please see the LSHTM website.
International students
Please see the LSHTM website.

For up to date information on funding available for postgraduate programmes at LSHTM, please visit our website.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MSc
    part time
    24 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    12 months
    • Campus-based learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Course Enquiries
Email
study@lshtm.ac.uk