理学研究生文凭（PGDipSci）是一个为期一年的课程，以本科科学学位为基础。该文凭包括论文和研究主题，可以全日制或兼读制。它仅通过论文提供进入理学硕士（MSc）学位的机会。微生物学是对微观大小的各种生物的广泛研究，包括病毒，细菌，真菌，藻类，蠕虫和原生动物。微生物学是一门涉及微生物研究的科学，包括其在环境中的分布和作用以及它们与其他活生物体（包括人类（健康和疾病）和其他动物）的关系。对微生物的基本性质和分子结构的了解已成为分子生物学作为一门科学学科的发展以及建立微生物遗传学作为一门先进科学的主要因素。
Microbes are essential for maintaining life on Earth. They comprise more than 50 per cent of the life forms on our planet, yet only around 1 per cent have been identified and studied. Infectious microorganisms, including bacteria and viruses, can attack our bodies and we rely on our immune system to protect us. Thus the relationship between microbes and immune cells is critical for our survival.<br>The University of Otago is the only institution in New Zealand offering bachelor's degrees in both Microbiology AND Infection and Immunity. The courses provide insights into the unseen world of microbes and the immune system, and an understanding of the practical applications arising from their study.<br>Microorganisms are everywhere in our bodies, our food, the air, soil, and water. Because theyre everywhere, theyre involved in almost every aspect of our lives.<br>An Otago graduate of Microbiology and Immunology will be limited only by their imagination.<br>Recent developments in fields such as biotechnology, aquaculture, molecular biology, microbial genetics, immunology and medicine have increased the demand for graduates with a microbiology and immunology major. The range of job opportunities continues to expand. Along with the traditional areas of teaching and research, graduates work in medical or veterinary laboratories and biotechnological and agricultural industries. Graduates are also employed as managers and advisers in government agencies.<br>Graduates with Microbiology and Immunology qualifications find employment in a wide variety of areas