The study of microbes has been critical in our current understanding of basic biological processes. It has also contributed to numerous aspects of pharmacy education. Microbiology involves the study of microorganisms and their role at the molecular level in the pathogenesis of infectious diseases. Treatment and control of these diseases necessitate pharmacists to be trained in the area of antimicrobial agents, their mechanism of action, and genetic factors that determine resistance and assessment. Immunology involves the study of the immune response to infectious microorganisms as well as the immune response to altered self.

The production of pharmaceuticals requires pharmacists to have an insight into microbiological control, aseptic, sterilization, and validation methods.

The impact of microbiology on the development of the fermentation industry, and biotechnology products such as antibiotics, pharmaceutical proteins, monoclonal antibodies, and vaccines is well documented.