Microbiology | Master Course Outlines | Academics | Bucks County Community College

BIOL228 Microbiology

4 credits

4500

BIOL121 (C or better) or a grade of C or better in both CHEM101 and BIOL181 or permission of the Department of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics

None

Lecture-laboratory format to include in-class and/or online presentation of content material and participation in hands-on and/or virtual laboratory exercises. Topics are presented in various modes including, but not limited to, traditional lecture style, online presentation, group exercises, computer simulations and/or online research.

This course includes a study of viruses, protozoa, algae, fungi and with special emphasis, bacteria. Laboratories incorporate the preparation of cultures and use of aseptic laboratory techniques, stains and biochemical activity for identification of organisms. The relationship of microbes to health and disease are also studied.

Course Learning Goals

Students will:
1. describe the characteristics of cells, viruses and prions;
2. explain the basic differences between protozoa, algae, and fungi;
3. demonstrate aseptic technique, maintenance of bacteria cultures, bacterial staining techniques, and specimen identification; and
4. explain the role of microbes in the disease state.
Planned Sequence of Topics and/or Learning Activities
1. overview of the history and terminology in microbiology
2. microscopes and their application
3. structure and function of prokaryote cells
4. culture and growth of bacteria
5. microbial metabolism
6. microbial genetics
7. recombinant DNA and biotechnology
8. survey of bacterial groups
9. viruses, prions
10. protozoans, algae, fungi
11. principles of disease and epidemiology
12. immunology
13. antimicrobial drugs
14. microorganisms and disease
Assessment Methods for Course Learning Goals
Exams, quizzes laboratory exercises, reports and or practicals, class participation, online activities and discussion, and projects as specified by the individual instructor's syllabus are utilized. At least 70% of the final grade will be from proctored, closed-book assessments. Standardized assessments may be required. A 12 lab minimum is required.
Reference, Resource, or Learning Materials to be used by Student:
Students use educational resources as approved by the department and specified in the individual instructor's syllabus.