Microbiology and molecular biology have equal importance in our society today. One will not be able to say which course has more importance.

Microbiology

Microbiologists study about the structure and functioning of unicellular life form such as prokaryotes and eukaryotes. To join the M.Sc. course in Microbiology or Applied Microbiology, aspirants need to have a graduate degree in the pertinent field.

Microbes are generally feared by some people because of its association with many human illnesses. But one thing to be remembered is that many microbes are responsible for many beneficial procedures like industrial fermentation, the development of antibiotics etc. There are numerous specializations available in Microbiology in which one can specialize. Those include:

• Biochemistry
• Bioinformatics
• Clinical Research
• Food Microbiology
• Forensic Science
• Hospital Management
• Hotel Administration
• Industrial Microbiology
• Medical microbiology
• Microbial-Technology
• Molecular biology

Those who finish their studies can get jobs with educational institutions. To pursue the profession of teaching, students need to possess a CSIR – NET or PhD degree in addition to a Master’s degree. One other option available for microbiologists is to start their own professional career. They can also get employed with education or research institutions in foreign countries. Another job opportunity for microbiologists is to choose to become a science writer. A Science writer writes articles on microbiology and its many aspects for common as well as professional microbiologists.

Molecular Biology

This branch of biology mainly focuses on the structure of DNA, RNA, the synthesis of proteins and their mechanisms. The responsibility of a molecular biologist is to understand more about the cellular functions at the molecular level.

Courses in Molecular Biology are available at the PG level. To pursue this course, aspirants will need to have a graduate degree in the relevant field. Those who have learned Microbiology, Zoology or Genetics can apply for this course.  Students who have opted for Botany can apply for the M.Sc Molecular Biology course as well.

Once their studies are over, students can get jobs with research institutions, private pharmaceutical firms or with one of the many R&D departments of the Indian government. They can also work on the development of therapeutic drugs. The application of research as to solve health issues and provide cure for diseases is another option available for molecular and cell biologists.

Which is the better of the two?

Both these programs have their own level of importance in the society today. While Microbiology deals with the study about microbes such as fungi and protists, molecular biology concerns the study of all cell forms such as DNA and RNA.  One thing that is similar between these two programs is that the researches of these fields are done on the cellular level. Individuals can choose any of these courses as per their area of interest and the future plans.