Objectives: A consideration of the structure, metabolism, growth, and genetics of the major groups of microorganisms with emphasis placed on bacteria and viruses. One section of this course is offered during the spring semester.

Prerequisites: Genetics (Biol 250), Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry (Chem 200) OR Organic Chemistry I (Chem 201)

Credit Value: 3

Contact Time: Three 50 minute lectures and two one hour laboratories per week.

Outcomes: Upon completion of the course the student should:

• have an appreciation for early investigations carried out in the area of microbiology with respect to such things as experimental design, interpretation of results, significance of contributions, etc.
• be aware of the significant differences between procaryotic and eucaryotic microorganisms with emphasis on cellular structures and functions
• be familiar with viral architecture, replication, and quantification
• be aware of the numerous chemical and physical factors affecting microbial growth and how these factors can be managed in order to establish optimal growth conditions
• be aware of the varied metabolic types as far as microorgansisms are concerned (students should have a sound understanding of the terminology and major pathways of metabolism)
• have a basic understanding of microbial reproduction with emphasis on conjugation, transformation, and transduction (current trends in genetic engineering will be relative to this topic of discussion)
• be introduced to the applied aspects of microbiology such as industrial, medical, and agricultural applications (the students should better understand both the beneficial and harmful roles displayed by microorganisms)
• be in a position to view the activities of microorganisms objectively as related to their constant influence on man and their environment)
• have the ability to perform basic microbiological techniques such as staining, culturing, and biochemical testing of varied microorganisms
• understand and be able to apply principles of asepsis, disinfection, sterilization, and sanitation
• establish an appreciation of the fact that microorganisms are omnipresent and will be in a position to apply this knowledge to personal and community hygiene
• be aware of both harmful and beneficial roles played by microorganisms in abiotic and biotic environments
• have an appreciation of the need for research in building up the body of knowledge that makes microbiology a science

Assessment:

Lecture Schedule:

Laboratory Schedule: