Studying online

There are now 2 possible online modes for units:

Units with modes Online timetabled and Online flexible are available for any student to self-enrol and study online.

Click on an offering mode for more details.

Unit Overview

Description

This unit covers microbial structure and function, with respect to bacteria, viruses, protozoans and fungi. Concepts including microbial growth, disinfection and sterilisation are covered. The role of micro-organisms in the environment and how they can be manipulated genetically to perform roles in biotechnology are also discussed. Enrolment in this unit is highly desirable if the student is undertaking MICR2209 Introduction to Infectious Diseases and Immunology.

Credit
6 points
Offering
(see Timetable)
AvailabilityLocationMode
Semester 1QEII Medical CentreFace to face
Details for undergraduate courses
  • Level 2 core unit in the Microbiology and Immunology major sequence
  • Level 2 elective
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) develop a sound understanding of the structure and functional characteristics of bacteria, viruses, protozoans and fungi, including diversity, metabolism, taxonomy, and genetics

; (2) understand culturing techniques for the isolation and characterisation of bacteria, and the use of microscopy for the identification of microbes

; and (3) use data recording processes and interpret results.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) MCQ online quiz

; (2) mid-semester test; and (3) written exam. Further information is available in the unit outline.



Student may be offered supplementary assessment in this unit if they meet the eligibility criteria.

Unit Coordinator(s)
Dr Timothy Barnett
Unit rules
Prerequisites
( SCIE1106 Molecular Biology of the Cell
or SCIX1106 Molecular Biology of the Cell
and any one Unit(s) BIOL1130 Frontiers in Biology
or ANHB1101 Human Biology I: Becoming Human
or ANHX1101 Human Biology 1 (Becoming Human)
or ANHB1102 Human Biology II: Being Human
or ANHX1102 Human Biology 2 (Being Human) )
or
IMED1001 Form and Function
and IMED1002 The Facts of Life
Incompatibility
for pre-2012 courses: MICR2204 Introductory Microbiology
Contact hours
lectures: 2–3 hours per week
labs/tutorials: 2-3 hr per week
for up to 12 weeks
  • The availability of units in Semester 1, 2, etc. was correct at the time of publication but may be subject to change.
  • All students are responsible for identifying when they need assistance to improve their academic learning, research, English language and numeracy skills; seeking out the services and resources available to help them; and applying what they learn. Students are encouraged to register for free online support through GETSmart; to help themselves to the extensive range of resources on UWA's STUDYSmarter website; and to participate in WRITESmart and (ma+hs)Smart drop-ins and workshops.
  • Unit readings, including any essential textbooks, are listed in the unit outline for each unit, one week prior the commencement of study. The unit outline will be available via the LMS and the UWA Handbook one week prior the commencement of study. Reading lists and essential textbooks are subject to change each semester. Information on essential textbooks will also be made available on the Essential Textbooks. This website is updated regularly in the lead up to semester so content may change. It is recommended that students purchase essential textbooks for convenience due to the frequency with which they will be required during the unit. A limited number of textbooks will be made available from the Library in print and will also be made available online wherever possible. Essential textbooks can be purchased from the commercial vendors to secure the best deal. The Student Guild can provide assistance on where to purchase books if required. Books can be purchased second hand at the Guild Secondhand bookshop (second floor, Guild Village), which is located on campus.
  • Contact hours provide an indication of the type and extent of in-class activities this unit may contain. The total amount of student work (including contact hours, assessment time, and self-study) will approximate 150 hours per 6 credit points.