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 discusses microbial structure and function; epidemiological methods; microbial structure and function; microbial classification and identification; sterilisation and disinfection; mycology; outbreaks; antibiotic resistance; commensal flora; properties of viruses; self-directed learning; diagnostic mycology; specimen collection and diagnosis; skin and soft tissue infections; urogenital tract microbiology; wounds; gastrointestinal tract microbiology; diagnostic virology and blood and respiratory tract.

Credit
6 points
Offering
AvailabilityLocationMode
Not available in 2025UWA (Perth)Face to face
Outcomes

Students are able to (1) explain the body's normal defence against infection; (2) outline the various types of infectious diseases caused by bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites; (3) outline how infections are diagnosed in the laboratory and the role of the nurse in specimen collection, storage and transport; and (4) discuss the theoretical basis of sterilisation and disinfection procedures and discuss infection control principles and the importance of health care-related infections within the clinical environment.

Assessment

Indicative assessments in this unit are as follows: (1) three class tests and an assignment (40 per cent) and (2) a two-hour final examination (60 per cent). 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 Kate Hammer
Contact hours
lectures/lab sessions: 39 hours
Texts

There is no prescribed text.

Further reading

Willey, J. M. et al. Prescott's Microbiology, 8th/9th edn: McGraw-Hill 2011/2014

  • 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.
  • Visit the Essential Textbooks website to see if any textbooks are required for this Unit. The website is updated regularly so content may change. Students are recommended to purchase Essential Textbooks, but a limited number of copies of all Essential Textbooks are held in the Library in print, and as an ebook where possible. Recommended readings for the unit can be accessed in Unit Readings directly through the Learning Management System (LMS).
  • 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.