Microbiology

Microbiology is the study of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, all of which can cause diseases in humans. Analyze how microorganisms cause common diseases and their symptoms, and how diseases are transmitted. Discover the history and development of vaccines, antibiotics, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria and how they have impacted the transmission of disease. Expand your understanding with the use of case studies and real-world examples to inform research on cutting-edge topics and breakthroughs in microbiology research.

*Supplemental course fee of $150 to cover lab and materials costs.

Learning Outcomes

Upon Completing this course, students will be able to:

1. Identify major groups of microorganisms (bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites).
2. Understand the factors that influence microbial growth (nutrients, temperature, pH).
3. Analyze how different microorganisms cause disease in humans (bacterial infections, viral infections, fungal infections, parasitic infections).
4. Apply microbiological knowledge to understand the causes and consequences of disease outbreaks.
5. Explore cutting-edge topics and breakthroughs in microbiology research, such as emerging infectious diseases, microbiome studies, and the development of new antimicrobial therapies.
6. Gain familiarity with basic microbiology laboratory techniques (e.g., microscopy, culturing, staining).

Note: Information is subject to change as instructors finalize course content and syllabi.