Courses in Microbiology


Bachelor of Science The B.S. degree is appropriate for students seeking in-depth training in a particular biological field as preparation for a specific career. It is designed to prepare students for 1) employment in commercial, industrial or governmental operations or labs, 2) traineeships required for certification or licensure in designated areas of applied biology and microbiology, or 3) specialized graduate programs.

The Microbiology Option (Option III) of the B.S. degree prepares students for employment in microbiology labs, both government and private, and meets the requirements of the California Department of Health Services. This option also prepares the student for advanced graduate study.

Bachelor of Arts The B.A. degree is designed for students seeking a broad foundation in biology as part of a liberal education in the arts and sciences. Provided that careful attention is paid to the requirements for advanced (postbaccalaureate) and professional programs, the B.A. degree is appropriate for those students 1) intending to enter a graduate program, 2) seeking a teaching credential (see above), or 3) preparing for dentistry, medicine, optometry, pharmacy or veterinary medicine. The B.A. degree is also suitable for careers in such areas as pharmaceutical sales and medical illustration.

Master of Science The Graduate Program provides students an opportunity for advanced study in specialized areas of Biology and to develop the skills required to do independent research.

B.S. and M.S. students can enroll in 400 and 500 level courses. Only M.S. students can enroll in 600 level courses (not listed here, see catalogue).

  • Principles of Microbiology and Lab (BIOL 315/L) Introduction to the biology of microorganisms with emphasis on the bacteria. General course designed for Biology majors and students who wish to pursue further study in microbiology or bacteriology.
  • Applied Microbiology and Lab (BIOL 408/L) Examination of the role of microbes and their control in the production and deterioration of foods, in industry, in agriculture, in waste disposal and in the production of energy.
  • Medical Microbiology and Lab (BIOL 410/L) Study of bacterial pathogens with emphasis on mechanisms of pathogenicity, diagnosis, chemotherapy, and host interaction.
  • Microbial Physiology and Lab (BIOL 417/L) Metabolism and special physiology of microbial forms of life, with special emphasis on the bacteria.
  • Bacterial Diversity and Lab (BIOL 418/L) Analysis of evolution, diversity and relationships among the bacteria, as illustrated by a detailed study of the more specialized groups of bacteria with regard to cell form, habitat, and developmental abilities.
  • Microbial Ecology (BIOL 419/L/492C) Examination of the natural distribution of bacteria, fungi, algae and protozoa in the biosphere, and a study of the physical, chemical and biological factors that govern their distribution. Inquiry into the role of microbes as they interact directly and indirectly with higher organisms in the ecosystem.
  • Parasitology and Lab (BIOL 435/L) Study of the biology of parasites and other symbionts.
  • Biotechnology (BIOL 470) Application of organisms, biological systems, and processes to manufacturing and service industries. Role of microorganisms in industrial, agricultural, and pharmaceutical processes, biologically produced sources of energy, single cell protein, waste management, mining, and other areas. Impact of genetic engineering; enzyme biotechnology; recent advances in the genetics and physiology of industrial microorganisms for strain improvement.
  • Immunology with Serology Lab (BIOL 485/L) Study of the immune response examining humoral and cellular immunity, the nature, structure and reactions of antigens and antibodies, mediators of immunity, hypersensitivity and immunohematology. The Lab: emphasizes the principles and uses of serological methods for evaluation of the immune response.
  • Hematology and Lab (BIOL 487) Histological, biochemical, and clinical diagnostic study of blood: blood cell formation, iron metabolism, blood pathology, and practical lab technology.
  • Independent Study (BIOL 499) Maximum of 3 units of Independent Study may be applied to satisfy unit requirements of Elective Areas for the baccalaureate degree in Biology.
  • Medical Mycology (BIOL 536) Study of mycotic pathogens; their morphology and pathogenicity, including diagnosis and treatment of fungal diseases.
  • Biology of Viruses (BIOL 544) Comparative survey of the structure, gene expression and replication of viruses.
  • The Molecular Genetics of Microorganisms (BIOL 561) Discussion of the molecular structure of the gene, the chemistry of gene action, mutagenic agents, and genetic control mechanisms in microorganisms. Emphasis placed on experimental basis for current concepts in molecular genetics.
  • Genetics of Bacteria and Their Viruses (BIOL 566) Study of the genetic systems found in bacteria, including transformation, conjugation and transduction. Viral replication, recombination and interaction with their bacterial hosts are investigated from a genetic perspective. Transposable elements, plasmids and other selected topics of current interest in this field are explored.
  • Recombinant DNA Techniques and Lab (BIOL 572/L) Handling and processing of recombinant DNA, including DNA isolation, use of restriction enzymes, gel electrophoresis, ligation, cloning,blots, hybridization and associated microbiological techniques.
  • Electron Microscopy in Biomedical Sciences and Lab (BIOL 575/L) Theoretical and practical treatment of electron microscopy as applied to cell/ molecular biology, biotechnology, and histological and pathological conditions. Covers transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) with approaches such as freeze fixation, freeze etching, cryoultramicrotomy, and immunochemical binding in the study of isolated macromolecules, cells, tissues, and pathological specimens.
  • Cell and Tissue Culture and Lab (BIOL 577/L) Theoretical and practical studies of animal and plant cell cultures. Techniques for primary and continuous cultures and the production of hybridomas and monoclonal antibodies are covered. Other topics include cell culture storage, karyotyping, somatic embryogenesis, cytodifferentiation, and application of cell cultures in solving biological problems. Lectures and labs are highly integrated.
  • Mechanisms of Bacterial Pathogenesis (BIOL 585) Intensive study of the cellular and molecular mechanisms of bacterial pathogenesis, including the contribution of the host response, with emphasis on recent developments and comparative principles.
  • Cellular Immunology (BIOL 589) Advanced studies on the cellular interactions and mechanisms of the immune response, including clinical aspects of cell-mediated reactions and immunologic disorders.
  • Independent Study (BIOL 699)