Course description

Microbial habitats are literally everywhere on a college campus – and college students interact with microorganisms daily. From the athlete locker room, to the kitchen, to the bathroom, to between the sheets, college students are exposed to a plethora of microorganisms that are benign, beneficial, and pathogenic. The goal of this course is for students to learn about microbiology and microbial ecology as it relates to them – in the college campus environment. Students will learn about viruses, bacteria, eukarotes and metazoans that cause common illnesses (i.e. gastroenteritis, influenza and STDs), the microbially-driven elemental cycling of alcohol production, and ecology of microorganism that spoil food. Students will take away a practical understanding of the microorganisms that they can apply to their own lives.

Outcome 1: Demonstrate an understanding of core concepts of microbiology, including the evolution and diversity of microbes; cell structure and function; pathogenic and non-pathogenic lifestyles; and the role of microbes in human health and the built environment.

Outcome 2: Recognize the differences between pathogens, opportunists, and non-pathogenic microorganisms and have an appreciation for their roles in the college campus environment.

Outcome 3: Describe how microorganisms facilitate major biogeochemical cycles in natural and agricultural habitats.

Outcome 4: Apply the scientific method, as well as use objective observation and empirical measurement to evaluate alternative ideas concerning the underlying principles that govern biological, physical and chemical processes.

Outcome 5: Explain fundamental concepts of microbiology, both in written and in oral format.

Summer 2025: Online course

Kathleen Hefferon
Kathleen Hefferon
Lecturer, Microbiology