MCB 5942L Clinical Microbiology Lab
- Credits: 1
- Prerequisites: Enrolled in Clinical Laboratory Microbiologist
Certificate Program - When Offered: Fall, Spring, Summer C
- Syllabus: MCB5942L Clinical Microbiology Lab
- Lab Fee: TBA
Description
The Clinical Microbiology Laboratory course is a hands-on exploration of the microorganisms that play a pivotal role in human health and disease. Designed for students pursuing careers in healthcare, research, or clinical laboratory science, this course emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications. You will engage in a variety of laboratory techniques to culture, identify, and analyze bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites.
Course Overview
The Clinical Microbiology Laboratory course provides an in-depth, hands-on exploration of the microorganisms that play a pivotal role in human health and disease. Designed for students pursuing careers in healthcare, research, or clinical laboratory science, this course emphasizes practical skills and real-world applications. You will engage in a variety of laboratory techniques to culture, identify, and analyze bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. The course is structured around weekly lab sessions, each focusing on specific methodologies such as microscopy, staining techniques, biochemical testing, and molecular diagnostics. Through these sessions, you will not only master technical procedures but also develop the ability to interpret and troubleshoot experimental results. Emphasis is placed on laboratory safety and on maintaining a contamination-free environment. By integrating theoretical knowledge with practical experience, this course aims to foster a comprehensive understanding of microbial pathogenesis, the immune response, and the principles of infection control. Whether your goal is to work in a clinical laboratory, pursue medical research, or further your education in microbiology, this course will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge to succeed in the dynamic field of medical/clinical microbiology.
What you will know at the end of the course
After successfully completing the Clinical Microbiology Laboratory course, the student will demonstrate ability in the following categories:
Laboratory Safety
1. Explain the key principles and guidelines associated with different biosafety levels to ensure a secure laboratory environment.
2. Describe the procedures for proper sterilization and disinfection of laboratory equipment and workspaces to prevent contamination and infection.
3. Summarize the steps involved in identifying potential hazards and managing biological specimens safely in the laboratory setting.
Laboratory Skills
1. Explain the principles and practices of aseptic technique in the handling and culturing of microorganisms to prevent contamination.
2. Summarize the process and conditions required for culturing various microorganisms using different media.
3. Describe the staining methods, such as Gram staining and acid-fast staining, and their applications in microscopy for observing microorganisms.
4. Discuss the biochemical and molecular diagnostic techniques, including PCR and mass spectrometry, for the identification of microorganisms.
Laboratory Thinking Skills
1. Analyze experimental data to draw conclusions about microbial identification and characteristics.
2. Evaluate troubleshooting strategies to address unexpected results in experimental procedures.
3. Explain the reliability and validity of laboratory results for their implications in clinical and research contexts.
4. Value the integration of theoretical concepts with practical findings to understand microbial pathogenesis and its impact on human health.
At A Glance
- 100% online
- Classes offered spring, summer, & fall
- No GRE requirement
- Over 40 courses to choose from
- Tuition $535.00 per credit hour