Course

Credit Type:
Course
ACE ID:
SOPH-0074
Version:
2
Organization's ID:
SCIE1045
Organization:
Location:
Online
Length:
The course is self-paced; learners may use as much or as little time as they need to complete the course.
Minimum Passing Score:
70
ACE Credit Recommendation Period:
Credit Recommendation & Competencies
Level Credits (SH) Subject
Lower-Division Baccalaureate 3 Introduction to Microbiology
Description

Objective:

The course objective is to introduce students to the field of microbiology including the tools used, organisms studied, methods of clinical testing, control of microorganisms, and the role of microorganisms in health and disease. The course also covers essential biological concepts as they relate to microbiology, including metabolic processes, genetics, evolution, genetic engineering, biotechnology, immunology, and more. The content is intended for learners studying allied health or preparing for non-STEM careers while also providing clear information to provide a strong foundation for STEM majors.

To gain the fullest experience, it’s recommended that students take this lecture course alongside the Microbiology lab, which emphasizes hands-on application and real-world relevance of the subject.

Learning Outcomes:

  • Summarize the importance and main categories of microorganisms and the techniques for visualizing them.
  • Categorize microorganisms and acellular agents based on their distinctive characteristics.
  • Relate pathogens to disease, immune response, and laboratory analysis.
  • Correlate genetic and biochemical characteristics of microbes with methods of identification and manipulation.
  • Associate microbial growth with environmental conditions and control methods.

General Topics:

  • History of Microbiology
  • Classification, Taxonomy, and Characteristics of Microorganisms
  • Types and Parts of the Microscope, Slide Preparation, and Staining
  • Spontaneous Generation, Koch’s Postulates, and Germ Theory
  • Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cell Structure, Function, and Division
  • Bacteria: Gram-Negative, Gram-Positive, Phototrophic, and Deep Branching Groups
  • Characteristics of Unicellular Eukaryotic Protists
  • Parasitic Helminths, Algae, and Fungi
  • Characteristics of Viruses, Viral Life Cycles, and Eukaryotic Viruses
  • Culture and Identification of Microorganisms and Viruses
  • Viroids, Virusoids, and Prions
  • Organic Molecules and Isomerism, Carbohydrates, Lipids, and Proteins
  • Energy, Matter, Enzymes, Catabolism, Cellular Respiration, and Fermentation
  • Microbial Photosynthesis, Biogeochemical Cycles, Genetics, DNA, and RNA
  • Genome Structure and Function, Translation, Mutations, Reproduction, and Regulation
  • Genetic Engineering, Analysis of DNA and RNA
  • Amplifying, Visualizing, and Characterizing DNA, RNA, and Proteins
  • Bacterial Growth, and Communication
  • Physical, Chemical, and Antimicrobial Control (Drugs, Mechanisms, Resistance, Therapy Options)
  • Antimicrobial Drug Therapy Options, Drug Resistance, and Effectiveness of Antimicrobial Agents
  • Pathogenicity and Virulence Factors of Bacteria and Viruses, and Eukaryotic Pathogens
  • Endotoxins and Exotoxins
  • Epidemiology, Disease Transmission, and common infectious diseases
  • Innate Immunity and Physical and Chemical Defense Mechanisms
  • Cellular Defense and Immunity, Inflammation, and Fever
  • Adaptive Immunity, Histocompatibility Complex, and T and B Lymphocytes in Immunity
  • Vaccines, Hypersensitivities, Autoimmune Disorders, and Immunodeficiencies
  • Cancer Immunobiology and Immunotherapy
  • Antibody Production, Laboratory Testing, In Vitro Assays, Agglutination, and Hemagglutination
  • Blood Typing and Crossmatching
  • EIA, FEIA, ELISA Testing, and Fluorescent Antibody Techniques
Instruction & Assessment

Instructional Strategies:

  • Audio Visual Materials
  • Computer Based Training
  • Lectures
  • Practical Exercises

Methods of Assessment:

  • Examinations
  • Quizzes
Supplemental Materials
Equivalencies

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