Microbiology is the study of the fascinating microscopic world of viruses, bacteria, fungi, protozoans and parasites. Topics include classification, growth and metabolism, prokaryotic genetics, genetic engineering, infection and disease, and immunology. In the laboratory students learn to use microscopes effectively, culture bacteria, and use microscopic and macroscopic techniques to identify bacteria. This course is required by some health care programs and also fulfills part of the science requirement for an AA degree. Microbiology is typically offered every semester both on-ground and on-line.
Introduction to Cell Biology , Principles of General Biology , or Introduction to Forensic Biology provide students a basic understanding of cellular and biochemical concepts and serve as prerequisites for Microbiology.
The images above, photographed by LSC instructor Karen Ellingson, show bacteria in patient samples and a petri plate with bacterial growth. These particular bacteria may cause infectious disease including pneumonia and meningitis.