Microbiology Course Syllabus and Study Guide

Course Overview

This course provides an introduction to microbiology, focusing on the biology of microbes, their interactions with humans, and their roles in health and disease. Students will gain foundational knowledge in microbial structure, function, genetics, metabolism, and the immune response, as well as practical laboratory skills for studying microorganisms.

Course Description

• Designed for pre-professional students and those interested in health sciences.

• Introduces various types of microbes and their impact on human health.

• Covers important infectious diseases, their diagnosis, prevention, control, and treatment.

• Emphasizes the basic concepts of microbial growth, metabolism, physiology, and genetics.

• Explores the features of prokaryotic and eukaryotic microorganisms.

Course Goals

1. Introduce the significant role of microbes in daily life.

2. Discuss aspects of host-microbe interactions.

3. Learn basic principles of infectious diseases and epidemiology.

4. Understand the human immune system.

5. Inform about antimicrobial agents and their mechanisms of action.

6. Educate about microbial diseases affecting human organs.

7. Train in laboratory analysis of microorganisms.

Learning Objectives

• Use a microscope to observe microorganisms.

• Cultivate microbes and understand their environmental requirements.

• Describe diseases caused by different types of microbes.

• Elucidate aspects of the human immune system.

• Distinguish diseases caused by microbes in the human body.

• Identify microorganisms using microbiological and biochemical assays.

Prerequisites and Required Materials

• Prerequisite courses: P. BIOL 20300 and CHM 10400 or CHM 11100.

• Textbook: Microbiology: An Introduction by Tortora G.J., Funke, B.R., Case, C.L. (with Mastering Microbiology access).

• Lab materials: colored pencils, pocket folder, lab coat, safety glasses.

Course Structure and Assessment

Lecture Exams

• Exams are given in person and are timed.

• Exam format: multiple choice, fill-in, true/false, short answer, tables, and diagrams.

• Material from lectures, textbook, and assigned readings may appear on exams.

Homework Assignments

• Online homework via Mastering Microbiology (20 assignments, 2 points each).

Laboratory

• Attendance is required; missing labs must be documented and approved.

• Lab work includes quizzes, techniques, reports, and identification of unknowns.

• Lab total: 5% of final grade.

Grading Scheme

Component	Points
Lecture Exams (4 exams, 25 points each)	100
Homework Assignments	40
Final Exam	30
Lab Quizzes	32
Lab Techniques	2
Lab Reports	16
Lab Unknowns	14
Lab Total	100

Grade Scale: A = 90%, B = 80%, C = 70%, D = 60%, F = <60%

Major Topics and Chapter Schedule

• The Microbial World and You

• Chemical Principles

• Observing Microorganisms Through a Microscope

• Functional Anatomy of Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic Cells

• Microbial Metabolism

• Microbial Growth

• The Control of Microbial Growth

• Microbial Genetics

• Biotechnology & DNA Technology

• Viruses, Viroids, and Prions

• Principles of Disease and Epidemiology

• Microbial Mechanisms of Pathogenicity

• Innate Immunity: Nonspecific Defenses of the Host

• Adaptive Immunity: Specific Defenses of the Host

• Antimicrobial Drugs

• Microbial Diseases of Organ Systems (cardiovascular, lymphatic, nervous, respiratory, digestive, skin, and eyes)

Course Policies and Success Tips

• Academic honesty is strictly enforced.

• Attendance and participation are essential for success.

• Students are encouraged to use the textbook, Mastering Microbiology, and study guides for exam preparation.

• Make-up exams and labs are allowed only for documented emergencies.

• Students with disabilities should contact the Disability Access Center for accommodations.

Additional Info

• Course includes both lecture and laboratory components.

• Emphasis on practical skills such as microscopy, culturing, and identification of microbes.

• Critical thinking and application of concepts are encouraged through exams and assignments.