Microbiology at Clemson
Clemson · B.S.
Microbiology
- Degree
- B.S.
- College / unit
- College of Science
- Locations
- Clemson, South Carolina
- Requirements updated
- 2026–27
About this major
Microbiology investigates bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microorganisms. Students develop foundations in biology and chemistry before studying microbial genetics, physiology, ecology, immunology, and laboratory methods. Clemson offers a general route and a biomedicine concentration, supporting different combinations of environmental, research, and health-focused study. Laboratory practice remains central throughout the program.
Clemson program overview (opens in a new tab)Decision snapshot
At a Glance: National Evidence
National evidence for related fields and occupations. It describes groups, not what will happen to one student.
View degree options
Most common positions
- PhysicianDiagnoses and treats illness. Doctoral degree with residency and licensure. Opens an occupation profile in a new tab.
- Physical scientistInvestigates physical systems through research. Advanced study common. Opens an occupation profile in a new tab.
- Clinical laboratory technologistTests samples used to diagnose disease. Bachelor's plus certification or licensure varies. Opens an occupation profile in a new tab.
National pay
$46,000
Median for full-time U.S. graduates ages 22–27 · 2024
New York Fed category: Miscellaneous Biological Science
Generalized outcomes
- Unemployment
- 4.4%
- Underemployment
- 46.9%
- With a graduate degree
- 59.5%
Related Clemson majors
Clemson decision guide
Before You Choose
What studying it feels like
You’ll work with organisms that cannot be understood by observation alone. Culture methods and molecular tools turn small biological changes into evidence about health or environmental systems around us.
One thing to know
Medical and research paths may involve graduate education. The bachelor’s degree can also support laboratory roles focused on testing or quality.
Ask yourself
- 1Are you patient with careful laboratory technique and repeated testing?
- 2Does your target role require advanced study or a specific credential?
Longer-term context
$80,000
National median for U.S. graduates ages 35–45 · 2024
Miscellaneous Biological Science. Group evidence, not a prediction for one student.
Pay source (opens in a new tab)Career preparation
Laboratory work can begin with a bachelor’s degree. Research leadership may need graduate study, while physicians require medical training and licensure.
Clemson guide sources
Sources & How to Read This Guide
- Clemson undergraduate program inventory and degree requirements Opens in a new tab.
- Labor market outcomes by college major Opens in a new tab.
- ACS PUMS field-of-degree and occupation files, 2018–2024 Opens in a new tab.
- CIP-to-occupation crosswalk and occupation profiles Opens in a new tab.
Most common positions use Census weights in pooled 2018–2024 ACS PUMS data, excluding 2020. The sample covers employed degree holders ages 22–35 who weren’t enrolled. This guide uses Microbiology (FOD 3606; unweighted n=1,512; direct field match). These are national patterns, not Clemson outcomes.
Microbiology, General (CIP 26.0502) is compared with the New York Fed category Miscellaneous Biological Science. National evidence describes groups and is not a prediction for one student. Future of STEM is independent and is not endorsed by Clemson University.