Career guide

Microbiologist

Investigative

Studies bacteria, viruses and fungi - how they cause disease, spoil food, or can be put to use. Mostly laboratory-based with strict method.

This career needs Core Mathematics.
Mathematical Literacy is not accepted for it at South African universities. This choice is made in Grade 9, for Grade 10 — and it is very difficult to reverse later. If this career is on your list, take Core Mathematics.

School subjects

Mathematics (NOT Mathematical Literacy) and Life Sciences are required; Physical Sciences is required or strongly preferred by most faculties.

How you qualify

BSc, 3 years, majoring in the relevant discipline, then BSc Honours, 1 year, which is the usual minimum for professional work and for registration with SACNASP as a Professional Natural Scientist. Many research and specialist posts expect a Master's. You may register as a Candidate Natural Scientist straight after qualifying, with no experience required. Entry requirements and APS differ by institution and change yearly - confirm directly with the institution.

Where to study

Public universities; registration with SACNASP required to practise as a professional natural scientist

Before you decide. Entry requirements change every year and differ between institutions. We do not publish admission point scores here, because a number that is right for one university in one year is wrong for another. Confirm the requirements directly with the institution before your subject selection form is signed. In KwaZulu-Natal, applications go through the Central Applications Office (cao.ac.za).

Last verified: 2026-08

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