BIOL& 260 - Microbiology

5 Credits
Microbiology is a comprehensive course introducing classification, structure, and function of microbes. Focus includes disease-causing bacteria, viruses, protozoa, and fungi. The role of these microorganisms in nature, environmental impact, and health applications are covered. Laboratory is an integral component, which includes training on microscope, slide prep, aseptic technique transfer/inoculation of bacteria, and use of various media to select, isolate, and characterize organisms.

General education distribution area: Natural Science, with lab.

Prerequisite(s): Completion of BIOL& 160 , General Biology, with a 2.0 or higher.

Course Outcomes

Use major characteristics and classification strategies to identify prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms, and differentiate between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cell structure and function.
Describe a variety of microorganisms, including prokaryotes and eukaryotes, including the key processes they perform.
Describe the various physical, chemical growth factors, and nutritional requirements for the microbial growth.
Compare the life cycles and structures of different types of viruses and describe how viruses differ from eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells.
Describe the major metabolic pathways and process associated with microorganisms.
Describe the genetic information flow of microorganism processes; compare and contrast the processes that transmit genetic information between microbes.
Describe the organization of the immune system and distinguish between types of immune responses.
Know the tools of microbiology, safely prepare specimens of microorganisms, and use microscopes to visualize and identify their characteristics.
Demonstrate the background knowledge and practical skills to safely handle microbial cultures, make a pure culture, and use different culture media to isolate and enrich specific microbes.