Master of Science in Medical MicroBiology Program Offered at University of Nairobi

Masters 2 years Fulltime Fee: on application Intake: Ongoing

Masters (Accredited by: University of Nairobi)

About Master of Science in Medical MicroBiology Masters program.

The most serious health problems in the world today, particularly in developing countries, are caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites. Most of these occur in communities with low socio-economic status living in overcrowded and poor hygienic conditions. Although it may be likely that such conditions commonly occur in developing countries, little has been done to educate people on modalities of diagnosis and control. Due to deterioration in health standards, infectious diseases caused by these micro organisms are now occurring with increased frequency in Kenya and many other countries within the African region. HIV/AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis and typhoid are among some of the diseases whose frequency has increased tremendously and which require control.



The Department of Medical Microbiology at the University of Nairobi is a leader in research on infectious diseases particularly HIV/AIDS. This middle level degree programs is useful for the training of properly skilled personnel in the diagnosis and control of infectious diseases. The Master of Science degree in Medical Microbiology incorporates training in various methods of diagnosis and control of these diseases. Apart from focusing on understanding the biology, pathology, immunology, molecular biology, diagnosis, control and management of these diseases, the course prepares candidates for higher doctorate degrees in the field of microbiology. It is hoped that through training, there will be improved supply of skilfully trained manpower in the field of infectious diseases.

Objectives of Master of Science in Medical MicroBiology

The objectives of the Master of Science in Medical Microbiology degree programme at the University of Nairobi are:


  1. To equip the master of science in medical microbiology students with skills and ability to teach and carry out research in infectious diseases.



  2. To equip the master of science in medical microbiology students with skills required in the diagnosis and control of infectious diseases



  3. To train at postgraduate level, students of human and veterinary medicine, and biological sciences on the current identification procedures of micro organisms which cause disease

Entry requirements for Master of Science in Medical MicroBiology

Candidates eligible for admission into the Master of Science degree in Medical Microbiology shall have the following minimum qualifications:


  1. Holders of a Bachelor of Medicine and Surgery degree, Bachelors of Veterinary Medicine degree, Bachelor of Dental Surgery degree, Bachelor of Pharmacy degree and Bachelor of Nursing degree from the University of Nairobi, or any other institution recognized by the Senate of the University of Nairobi as being of comparable academic status.



  2. Holders of Bachelor of Science upper second class degree in zoology from the University of Nairobi or any other institution recognized by the University of Nairobi senate.



  3. Holders of Bachelor of Science lower second class degree in Zoology with at least three years working experience in a relevant field of microbiology or with a postgraduate diploma in Microbiology.



  4. Holders of Bachelor of Science pass degree in zoology with a postgraduate diploma in Microbiology and at least three years working experience in a relevant field of microbiology.



  5. In addition to provision of evidence of eligibility for admission, candidates may be required by the Faculty to appear for interview to determine their suitability for admission.

Master of Science in Medical MicroBiology Course Subjects

The Master of Science degree course in Medical Microbiology at the University of Nairobi shall cover two academic years.


  1. The first year of study at the University of Nairobi shall be devoted entirely to course work in which candidates shall be required to take all courses offered in that year in form of lectures, practicals, tutorials and seminars.



  2. In the second year of study at the university of Nairobi, candidates shall do course work during the first term and undertake a research project in the second and final term.



  3. The second year shall be devoted to an individual research project and submission of thesis, and during this period, the candidate shall also participate in seminars and journal clubs.


Course Outline


First Year


Bacteriology, Medical Mycology, Virology, Immunology, Molecular Biology, Medical Parasitology, Medical Entomology.


Second Year


Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Research Methods and Computer applications, Attachment / Practicum, Research Project




Research Project


Students, under a supervisor's guidance, shall carry out a research project on a selected topic in Medical Microbiology. Research proposals shall be presented to the Departmental Postgraduate Committee and appropriate ethics committees as may be required by the Faculty.

About University of Nairobi

The University of Nairobi is a world-class university committed to scholarly excellence. University of Nairobi mission is to provide quality university education and training and to embody the aspirations of the Kenyan people and the global community through creation, preservation, integration, transmission and utilization of knowledge.

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