Science
A221 Microbiology
This module explores the unseen world of microorganisms, offering students a foundational understanding of organisms invisible to the naked eye.
The curriculum covers the diversity of microorganisms, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and protozoa, and examines their structural and functional relationships. Students will learn about the importance of microorganisms in areas such as disease processes, food processing and safety, as well as their potential for exploitation in industrial applications. Practical components are designed to complement theoretical knowledge, focusing on important techniques such as the preparation of growth media, inoculation, isolation of bacterial cultures, bacterial enumeration, and basic microbial staining for identification. In addition, the curriculum will focus on microbial nutrition, bacterial growth phases and microbial control measures such as disinfection and sterilisation methods. This module not only introduces students to the fundamentals of microbiology but also prepares them for further applications in the field of biological sciences.