Online Class: Introduction to Microbiology

This course is a basic overview of microbiology concepts.

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  • 23
    Lessons
  • 23
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 837
    Students
    have taken this course
  • 30
    Hours
    average time
  • 3.0
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

This course is a basic overview of microbiology concepts. It is geared towards the casual learner learning about the foundational concepts of microbiology.
  • Completely Online
  • Self-Paced
  • 6 Months to Complete
  • 24/7 Availability
  • Start Anytime
  • PC & Mac Compatible
  • Android & iOS Friendly
  • Accredited CEUs
Universal Class is an IACET Accredited Provider
 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.69 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(699 votes)

Lesson 1. The Microscopic World: An Introduction to Microbiology

22 Points
Agriculturally, microbiology enhances soil health and crop yields by studying beneficial microbial interactions. Environmental applications, like bioremediation, utilize microbes to detoxify pollutants, showcasing their potential in fostering sustainability.
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: Motives for Taking this Course
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Exam

Lesson 2. The Intricate Dance of Bacteria and Viruses: A Deep Dive

18 Points
Microorganisms, though mostly unseen, are fundamental to life, impacting health, agriculture, and ecology with their vast complexity. Understanding their roles—from beneficial probiotics to threatening pathogens—advances our scientific, medical, and environmental capacities.
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Exam

Lesson 3. Revolutionizing Microbiology: From Ancient Microbes to Modern Guardians

18 Points
Microbial diversity extends from spherical cocci to spiral spirilla, each shape aiding survival in specific conditions, illustrating adaptability in evolving environments. Taxonomic classification helps elucidate evolutionary paths and functional roles of these organisms, deepening our comprehension of life's interconnectedness.
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Exam

Lesson 4. Cellular Diversity: An Insight into Prokaryotes and Eukaryotes

18 Points
At the heart of cellular existence lies a master blueprint—DNA, encoding life's complexities and orchestrating cellular activity. Cellular powerhouses, like mitochondria in eukaryotes, transform nutrients into energy necessary for life's diverse processes.
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Exam

Lesson 5. The Art of Microbial Metabolism: Unlocking the Secrets of Life's Smallest Engineers

18 Points
ATP acts as the dynamic energy currency for microbes, facilitating cellular activities through substrate-level and oxidative phosphorylation. Its production during photosynthesis in cyanobacteria and cellular respiration in diverse bacterial environments showcases ATP's central role in energy transfer for metabolic processes.
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Exam

Lesson 6. Microbial Growth Dynamics and Control: Society's Response and Impact

20 Points
Balancing microbial presence is critical for maintaining ecosystem health in agricultural and industrial settings. Efforts to employ sustainable farming practices and develop anti-biofilm technologies reflect a commitment to promoting beneficial microbes while mitigating those that threaten productivity and infrastructure.
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Exam

Lesson 7. Unlocking Life's Blueprints: Microbial Genetics and Its Revolutionary Potential

20 Points
The power of microbial genetics in recombinant DNA technology enabled the production of human insulin, a breakthrough that altered diabetes treatment and demonstrated the potential of genetic manipulation for medical advancements. This accomplishment epitomizes both the scope and promise of biotechnology.
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Exam

Lesson 8. The DNA Revolution: Innovations and Ethical Considerations

18 Points
The application of recombinant DNA technology in agriculture and medicine is reshaping industries by creating genetically modified organisms that enhance productivity and sustainability. Yet, the ethical discourse surrounding gene manipulation emphasizes the need for caution and societal involvement.
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Exam

Lesson 9. Microbial Marvels: The Versatile Life of Bacteria

20 Points
The relationship between bacteria and human health is intricate, as they constitute the microbiome that assists in digestion, vitamin production, and immunity, while some strains remain pathogenic threats. The rise of antibiotic resistance pushes the frontiers of medicine towards innovation in treatment and personalized healthcare.
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Exam

Lesson 10. Morphological Marvels: Structural Diversity in Viruses

16 Points
Viruses, once regarded solely as threats, are being redefined by science as integral tools in genetics and biotechnology, demonstrating a profound impact not just on diseases but also on potential therapeutic advancements. With the advent of CRISPR and viral vectors in gene therapy, the dual nature of viruses is emerging: both as traditional pathogens and as vehicles for innovation.
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Exam

Lesson 11. Ecological Dynamics of Microorganisms

18 Points
Algae, fungi, protozoa, and helminthes, each embodying distinct life strategies, highlight life's complexity and adaptability across ecological contexts and human societies. Their study opens pathways to innovations in health, biotechnology, and environmental sustainability.
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Exam

Lesson 12. Disease Through Time: A Complex Tale of Survival and Adaptation

16 Points
In early human societies, disease transmission was limited due to dispersed populations and minimal contact with domesticated animals. However, the shift to agriculture increased communal living, zoonoses, and trade, accelerating disease spread and impacting nutrition and immunity.
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Exam

Lesson 13. Immunity Explained: Function and Lifestyle

18 Points
The immune system acts as a formidable defense, working through a network of organs and cells to maintain our body's integrity. Delving into its components, such as lymph nodes and lymphocytes, reveals the sophisticated balance of innate and adaptive immunity.
  • Lesson 13 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Exam

Lesson 14. Immune Disorders: A Concise Guide

18 Points
Addressing immune disorders involves strengthening weak immune responses and controlling hyperactive ones through lifestyle changes, vaccinations, and immunosuppressive medications. Proper nutrition, exercise, stress management, and sleep are crucial for maintaining a healthy immune system along with medical interventions.
  • Lesson 14 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Exam

Lesson 15. Exploring the Mysterious World of Skin and Eye Diseases: A Detailed Journey

20 Points
Fungal and parasitic skin diseases, often overshadowed yet impactful, highlight a careful balance between microbial flora and host defenses requiring vigilant prevention and treatment. Eye diseases like conjunctivitis and trachoma, arising in vulnerable communities, necessitate public health education and access to medical care to prevent long-term sequelae.
  • Lesson 15 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Exam

Lesson 16. Nervous System Ailments

14 Points
Innovations in gene and stem cell therapies, along with AI's role in diagnosis, are paving the way for advanced treatments for nervous system diseases. Research into neuroprotective agents offers additional hope for preventing neurological degeneration.
  • Lesson 16 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 16 Exam

Lesson 17. Pathogens and the Circulatory Networks: A Comprehensive Overview

18 Points
The cardiovascular and lymphatic systems are crucial for maintaining homeostasis and immune defense, each with specialized structures like the heart and lymph nodes. Understanding diseases that disrupt these systems highlights the importance of prevention, diagnosis, and treatment informed by latest research.
  • Lesson 17 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 17 Exam

Lesson 18. Essentials of Breathing and Disorders

18 Points
The persistent issue of COPD, compounded by factors like smoking and occupational hazards, underscores the necessity of preventive measures and global health initiatives. With smoking cessation as a cornerstone, management strategies prioritize patient education and adaptable treatment plans.
  • Lesson 18 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 18 Exam

Lesson 19. Digestive Health: Navigating Common Ailments

18 Points
Diseases of the digestive system such as GERD and celiac disease illustrate the body's vulnerability to both diet and genetic predispositions, affecting nutrient absorption and overall health. Raising awareness and adopting gluten-free or specialized diets alongside targeted treatments enhance care and well-being for sufferers.
  • Lesson 19 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 19 Exam

Lesson 20. The Intricacies of Reproductive Health Explained

20 Points
Reproductive systems are complex structures essential for species survival, utilizing both sexual and asexual reproduction methods. Innovatively, assisted reproductive technologies and genetic counseling are reshaping modern approaches to fertility and hereditary health.
  • Assessment: Lesson 20 Exam

Lesson 21. The Role of Vaccines in Strengthening Public Health

20 Points
The advent of vaccines marked a leap in medical science, enabling the prevention of illnesses through controlled immune activation without the burden of disease itself. Different vaccine types cater to the unique nature of pathogens, helping curb both ancient plagues like smallpox and modern threats like COVID-19.
  • Lesson 21 Video
  • Assessment: Lesson 21 Exam

Lesson 22. Antimicrobials: A Journey Through History and Resistance

20 Points
Antimicrobial drugs, essential for combating microbial infections, have evolved considerably since their introduction in the 1800s, but face challenges due to rising microbial resistance. Addressing this, researchers focus on developing new drugs and treatment protocols, exploring essential oils, inorganic cations, and other innovative solutions.
  • Lesson 22 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: 7550434aa49010zz.png
  • Assessment: Lesson 22 Exam

Lesson 23. The Hidden Universe Within: Understanding the Human Microbiome

0 Points
The human microbiome reveals a microscopic universe with vast implications for health, linking microbial balance to ailments such as obesity and depression. As research advances, personalized healthcare and diets promise to revolutionize well-being and disease prevention.
  • Lesson 23 Video
  • Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Course Comments
406
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define microbiology.
  • Define the microorganism.
  • Describe the chemical basis of microbiology.
  • Describe prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
  • Describe microbial metabolism and growth.
  • Summarize microbial genetics and DNA technology.
  • Describe bacteria and viruses.
  • Describe the algae, fungi, protozoa and helminthes.
  • Describe the immune system, disorders of the immune system, and the development of disease.
  • Describe diseases of the skin and eye.
  • Describe diseases of the nervous system.
  • Describe diseases of the cardiovascular and lymphatic systems.
  • Describe diseases of the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems.
  • Describe diseases of the respiratory, digestive, and reproductive systems.
  • Summarize vaccines and antimicrobial drugs.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Introduction to Microbiology
Course Number: 7550434
Lessons Rating: 4.69 / 5 Stars (699 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is accessible online throughout all states, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. It's also available in top English-speaking countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Last Updated: July 2021
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Class
CEU Value: 3.0 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Instructor: Dana Kristan
Syllabus: View Syllabus
Course Fee: $120.00 U.S. dollars

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Student Testimonials

  • "The course is so informative that adds my knowledge as a Laboratory Assistant. What I learned in this course was that it encourage me to pursue as a Laboratory Technician." -- Frank E.
  • "It was great." -- Philip Z.
  • "The instructer was very helpful when I contacted him on specific issues and returned our assignments promptly." -- Helen B.
  • "I think everything begins with a good instructor and this class was a success, because he cared to explain and make sure that the student felt comfortable." -- Yolanda A.
  • "James was very responsive and helpful to my questions." -- Kathy S.
  • "Would return to take another course in the future." -- Daniel T.
  • "Alot of useful information. Presented in an easy to read format, organized" -- Daniel T.
  • "My instructor worked hard to keep me informed with his assessments of my assignments and exams." -- Tommy R.
  • "Although I work in Bacteriology and have very limited knowledge of Biology I used this course to help me understand some of what I deal with daily. To me, all the materials were useful/helpful." -- Tommy R.
  • "The whole structure of this course is so well organised that it has made my learning easy as well as interesting! A Great program!" -- Irene C.
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