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BIO 2310 - Clinical Microbiology

3 lecture hours 2 lab hours 4 credits
Course Description
The course introduces the basics of microbiology and associated molecular biology, and the applications of these fields in healthcare in relation to microbiological infection, infection epidemiology, diagnostics, infection control, and molecular testing methodologies. Microbial characteristics, pathogenesis, innate and specific immune response to microbes and parasites are introduced. The course develops technical knowledge and theory of microbiological and molecular biological skills needed to address modern diagnostic methodologies and interventions.
Prereq: High school biology or program director consent
Note: None
This course meets the following Raider Core CLO Requirement: None
Course Learning Outcomes
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
  • Describe the general characteristics, size, and cellular organization of microorganisms
  • Identify the elements of microbial nutrition, growth, and metabolism and the environmental influences affecting growth and metabolism
  • Identify and explain host defense mechanisms fighting microbial infections and how common microbial diseases are diagnosed
  • Describe the basics of microbial epidemiology and infection control and major infectious diseases and their routes of infections
  • Participate in scientific conversations/presentation about microbiology and genomics, using correct terminology and asking relevant questions individually or as a team member
  • Explain how common microbial diseases are diagnosed
  • Describe the basics of microbial epidemiology and infection control
  • Describe the major infectious diseases and their routes of infection
  • Conduct a proper literature review and library search for journal articles
  • Perform the laboratory steps and techniques routinely involved in specimen preparation, staining, and in the culture of microorganisms
  • Participate in scientific conversations/presentation about microbiology and relevant molecular biology techniques, using correct terminology, asking relevant questions individually or as a team member
  • Apply critical thinking when recognizing the relationship of genetics/genomics/molecular biology to health, prevention, screening, diagnostics, and treatment modalities
  • Develop effective communication and health education skills to provide effective care to clients concerning infectious diseases
Prerequisites by Topic
  • Basic knowledge of biology
Course Topics
  • Humans and the microbial world
  • Microscopy and cell structure
  • Dynamics of microbial growth
  • Viruses, viroids, and prions
  • The innate immune response
  • The adaptive immune response
  • Host-microbe interactions
  • Applications of immune responses
  • Epidemiology
  • Antimicrobial medications
  • Respiratory system infections
  • Skin infections
  • Digestive system infections
  • Blood and lymphatic infections
  • Nervous system infections
  • Biotechnology
Laboratory Topics
  • Safety and aseptic techniques
  • Microscopes and microbes
  • Simple and differential stains
  • Clinical consultations: infectious diseases project
  • Classifying bacteria by enzymes and staining
  • Antimicrobial susceptibility testing
  • Blood cells and blood typing
  • Introduction to molecular biology techniques: tools, diagnostics, interventions
Coordinator
Dr. Lisa Jurgens

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