Excellence in Veterinary Microbiology is the Basis for Biomedical Science
Empowering Tomorrow’s Leaders in Veterinary Microbiology to Transform Biomedical Science and Animal Health.
The science of veterinary microbiology includes an all-encompassing knowledge on infectious animal diseases, food borne diseases of humans and zoonotic diseases. In particular this includes the etiology, transmission, pathogenesis, immunology, diagnosis and control of these diseases. Among microbial agents causing disease in animals and humans are bacteria, fungi, viruses and prions. But veterinary microbiology is not to be narrowly defined as only related to those agents of diseases. It should also include general knowledge on the structure, function, molecular biology and ecology of microorganisms as well as knowledge on the immune defense to better facilitate practical application of theoretical knowledge.
- Degree
- Master of Science (MSc)
- Modality
- Regular, Summer
- Duration
- 2 Years for Regular
- Start Date
- Every September for Regular
About the Programme
Why Study at Haramaya University?
Legacy of Excellence
Study at the oldest and most respected university in Ethiopia, renowned for its strong foundation in veterinary and microbiological sciences, and for producing leaders in animal and public health.
Expert Faculty
Learn from esteemed professors, researchers, and practitioners who are advancing veterinary microbiology and influencing national animal health policy.
Practical, Real-World Learning
Bridge theory and practice through hands-on laboratory work, case studies, and projects based on real challenges in Ethiopian livestock and veterinary sectors.
Strong Industry and Institutional Links
Benefit from collaborations with national veterinary laboratories, the Ministry of Agriculture, international NGOs, and research institutes working in animal health and zoonotic disease control.
Path to Professional Growth and Certification
Our curriculum aligns with national and international standards, preparing graduates for roles in veterinary diagnostics, public health, and further certification or PhD studies.
Vibrant Academic Community
Engage with a diverse cohort through microbiology seminars, research symposia, and professional networking events that connect students with leading scientists and industry stakeholders.
A Curriculum Designed for Success
Our two-year program balances core principles with advanced topics. The first year is reserved for the course work and has to be completed as full-time student. The second year is allocated for the research work and should be conducted full time.
Semester I
| Course Title | Course Code | Credit Hours * | ECTS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Foundations of Teaching and Learning | EDUC 511 | 2 | 3 |
| Advanced Research Methods and Biostatistics | VEPI 711 | 3 | 5 |
| Advanced Veterinary Bacteriology and Mycology | MVMB 721 | 3.5+0.5 | 7 |
| Advanced Molecular Biology | MVMB 731 | 2+1 | 5 |
| Advanced Veterinary Virology | MVMB 741 | 2.5+0.5 | 5 |
| Emerging and Reemerging Microbial Pathogens | MVMB 751 | 1 | 2 |
| Total | 16 | 27 |
* Lecture + Practical
Semester II
| Course Title | Course Code | Credit Hours * | ECTS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Microbial Genetics and Virulence | MVMB 712 | 3 | 5 |
| Cellular and Molecular Immunology | MVMB 722 | 3 | 5 |
| Advanced Microbiological Diagnostic Techniques | MVMB 732 | 2+1 | 5 |
| Bioinformatics | MVMB 742 | 1.5+0.5 | 3 |
| Seminar on Current Microbiology Topics | MVMB 752 | 1 | 2 |
| One of the mentioned elective courses | Elective course | 2 | 3 |
| Sub Total | 14 | 23 | |
| Microbial Biotechnology (elective) | MVMB 762 | 2+0 | 3 |
| Food Microbiology (elective) | MVMB 772 | 2+0 | 3 |
| Microbial Ecology (elective) | MVMB 782 | 2+0 | 3 |
| Total° | 12 (14) | 20 (23) |
* Lecture + Practical
° (including one elective course)
Semester III & IV
The students will do their research project and thesis write up during the third and fourth semester of the study.
| Course Title | Course Code | Credit Hours | ECTS |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thesis | MVMB 810 | 6 | 10 |
| Total | 6 | 10 |
Your Degree is Your Opportunity
Graduates with a Master in Veterinary Microbiology can pursue careers in veterinary diagnostics, Academic, research, and vaccine development. The program equips professionals with advanced skills to improve animal health, contribute to scientific innovation, and support global biosecurity efforts.
Potential Job Titles
- Veterinary Microbiologist
- Research Scientist (Veterinary Microbiology)
- Animal Health Researcher
- Zoonotic Disease Specialist
- Microbiology Laboratory Manager
- Vaccine Development Scientist
- Infectious Disease Analyst
- Regulatory Affairs Specialist (Animal Health)
- Biotechnology Research Associate
- Academic Lecturer or Instructor
- Quality Control/Assurance Officer (Animal Health Products)
Featured Employers
Ministry of Agriculture, Government and Public Health Agencies, Brooke Ethiopia, EPHI, NVI, NAHI, ILRI, Universities, Government and Private Veterinary Clinics with Diagnostic Services, Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratories, Pharmaceutical and Biotech Companies, Academic and Research Institutions, Animal Health and Feed Companies, International Organizations and NGOs.
