Immunology

Immunology is the study of how the body defends itself against pathogens. The courses explore the cells and molecules involved in defence, the nature of disease and pathogens, the use of the components of the immune system in therapeutics and diagnostics, and the evolutionary lessons from the development of immune systems in different organisms.

Why Aberdeen?

• Excellent staff and teaching facilities
• Innovative and flexible teaching allowing the student to follow special interests
• Opportunities for gaining (paid) experience in industry
• Our teaching programme integrates immunology from fish to man
• Training provided in both specialist and employment-related skills

Programmes

You may also be interested in

Genetics (Immunology), Biochemistry (Immunology) (both also available as MSci with Industrial Placement)

Study Abroad

Study abroad information

The opportunity to take Enhanced Study options as part of your degree and participate in co-curricular activities. See www.abdn.ac.uk/thedifference for more information.

First Year

Students take first year courses in Chemistry and Medical Sciences plus additional courses selected from the wide range available from science and other areas. A special course is available for those needing to strengthen their background in the essential skills required for study in science.

Second Year

Second year courses introduce Immunity, Infectious Diseases, the Biology of Pathogenic Viruses, Bacteria and Parasites and Cell Biology. Other courses introduce Fundamental Microbiology, Biochemistry, Genetics and Physiology. The second year curriculum includes two courses devoted to development of Foundation and Research Skills in the Life Sciences.

Third Year

A core course covers the fundamentals of Immunology, including Immune Regulation, Tolerance and an introduction to new ideas and advances in our understanding of the immune system. Other courses cover Applied Immunology in human disease including Autoimmunity, Asthma and Allergies, Transplants and Parasite Immunology, as well as the biology and control of infectious diseases and therapeutic advances. The latest technologies available for immunological analysis both in clinical and research settings will also be covered theoretically and in practical classes. A core course in Molecular Biology complements this degree programme.

Fourth Year (Honours)

The Honours year extends and explores molecular and cellular aspects of Immunology and the advanced concepts linking immunity, infection and disease. There are three series of tutorials and workshops for the discussion and exploration of the latest topics and technologies in the field using primary literature.  Lecturers and tutors at this stage are all actively involved in internationally recognised research. All students begin their Honours year by attending a two-day reading party.

An important feature of the Honours course is a ten-week research project, carried out in research laboratories in the School of Medical Sciences or in local research institutes. This provides the opportunity to carry out original research, using state-of-the-art technology alongside postgraduate and postdoctoral staff.

Variations

For degrees with Industrial Placement the year in industry is taken between third and fourth year in an appropriate industrial laboratory.

Teaching and Assessment

In the early years, teaching involves attendance at lectures, practicals and tutorials. In the later years a rather greater proportion of the students’ time is taken up in private study involving writing essays and reports, and also in laboratory or library work relating to specific projects and student symposia.  The final year incorporates the preparation and presentation of a research-based thesis.

Careers

Many of our graduates follow their undergraduate degree with a postgraduate course or with PhD research in a wide range of research laboratories. Others move directly into positions in hospital research, diagnostic laboratories and research institutes. Other major employers of Immunology graduates include the scientific civil service, pharmaceutical, food, fermentation and related biotechnology industries.  An Immunology degree is also a starting point for a career outside science, in management, intellectual property, publishing, teaching or a wide range of other professions.

Finding your direction

There are many opportunities at the University of Aberdeen to develop your knowledge, gain experience and build a competitive set of skills to enhance your employability. This is essential for your future career success.  The Careers Service can help you to plan your career and support your choices throughout your time with us – from first to final year – and beyond.

• More information on employability at the University of Aberdeen.
• More information on the Careers Service.
• More information on careers prospects and employability with a degree in Immunology.

Entrance Requirements

SQA Highers - BBBB*
A Levels - BBB*
IB - 30 points, 5 at HL*
ILC - BBBB*
*Including good performance in at least two Mathematics/Science subjects.


Advanced Entry - Advanced Highers ABB or A Levels ABB, or IB 34 points (6 at HL) including Biology and Chemistry, one of which must be at A-grade.

For further details of entrance requirements click here

Please click on the links below to find out more information on funding in your area.

• Scotland and EU (Excluding England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• Rest of UK (England, Wales and Northern Ireland)
• International
• Scholarships

Related Links

• Scholarships
• Entrance Scholarships
• Funding Database
• England Wales and Northern Ireland Finance Guide