Related Course/s:

A unit of study in the: Bachelor of Health Science (Public and Environmental Health), Bachelor of Science (Biochemistry/Chemistry) , 
Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology), Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)/Bachelor of Arts (Media and Communications), Bachelor of Science (Biotechnology)/Bachelor of Business and Bachelor of Science (Psychology/Biochemistry) .

Aims & Objectives:

During the unit of study we aim:

• To develop the basic concepts of microbiology.
• To develop the practical skills and techniques required in microbiological analysis.
• To prepare students for studies in advanced topics in microbiology and applications in biotechnology.

Teaching Methods:

Lectures, Practical Demonstrations, Practical Classes, Extensive Use of Multimedia Learning Resources, Learning Extension Program via the Internet.

Assessment:

Theory test 35%, Final exam 35%, Practical test 10%, Practical reports 20%.

Generic Skills Outcomes:

Students are expected to enhance several of their graduate attributes during this unit and should consult with your lecturer if not clear as to how this unit achieves this. The graduate attributes which relate to this unit help to produce students who:

Are capable in their chosen professional, vocational or study areas.

• Have a basic understanding of the theoretical principles involved in the general area.
• Have an in-depth technical competence in the specific (core) discipline.
• Can apply specific knowledge of the (core) discipline to real situations.

• Are self-motivated.
• Have multifaceted research and problem solving skills.
• Are flexible.
• Have an expectation that learning is lifelong.
• Have the ability to keep learning past the lifetime of the course.

• Have a broad understanding of the need for sustainability and sustainable development.
• Have a basic understanding of the need to carry out work in an ethical and socially responsible fashion.

Content:

• A survey of micro-organisms.
• Structure and function of bacterial cells.
• Microbial metabolism including photosynthesis.
• Nutrition and growth of bacteria, counting techniques.
• Control of microbial growth, sterilisation and disinfection.
• Microbial genetics.

Reading Materials:

Madigan, MT, Martinko, JM & Parker, J, Brock, Biology of Microorganisms, 10th edn, Prentice Hall International, 2000.