Unit Code: CLT502

Unit Name: General Microbiology

Description: This course is designed to provide students with knowledge pertaining to general bacteriology, parasitology, virology, mycology and clinical & medical microbiology and its application in the diagnosis of infectious diseases. The general emphasis is on the distribution, morphology and physiology of microorganisms with skills and techniques. These include aseptic procedures, isolation and identification of microorganisms, quality control and overlapping areas in immunology and epidemiology. Practical sessions for each topic are described in the practical manual, a companion to the course descriptor. For off-site students, the practicals will be conducted through video recording and the bench supervisor will sign off the practical in the logbook with competency.

Learning Target Outcomes: On successful completion of this course, students will be able to: 1. Outline the classification of microorganisms, microbial physiology and microbial cultivation methods. 2. Describe the morphology, biochemical characteristics, and laboratory diagnosis of bacteria. 3. Explain the classification and characteristics of medically important protozoans and nematodes. 4. Describe the classification and general properties of common tropical viruses. 5. Identify the basic characteristics of medically important Candida. 6. Apply IATA regulations in collection, storage and transportation of microbiological specimens. 7. Discuss quality control methods, and ethical considerations in microbiology.

Prerequisite: Minimum Entry Requirement (MER).

Prerequisite Sentence: N/A

Credit Point: 15

Offered In: Semester 1