James Cook University Subject Handbook - 2020

MI3021 - Clinical Microbiology

Subject Description

The habitat, the major characteristics and the methods used for the isolation and identification of bacteria and viruses of medical and veterinary importance will be presented. The range of selective and differential media used and the basis of the biochemical tests will be discussed in detail. The major emphasis of this course will be given to developing the practical skills required for diagnostic microbiology and virology. The subject is complementary to MI3051.

Learning Outcomes

• appreciate the hazards associated with working with pathogenic microorganisms and develop the appropriate microbiological skills
• describe in detail, the distribution of pathogenic microorganisms in the environment and the normal flora of animal body systems and the diseases they cause
• develop competencies for diagnosis of major parasite groups and common parasites of humans and animals
• understand the basis for and interpret biochemical reactions in the identification of pathogenic bacteria
• understand the need for the use of selective and differential media as an aid in the initial identification of bacteria

Subject Assessment

• Non-Invigilated > Assignments - (10%)
• Written assignment - (10%)
• Invigilated > End of semester exam - (50%)
• Invigilated > Other exams - (30%)

Note that minor variations might occur due to the continuous subject quality improvement process, and in case of minor variation(s) in assessment details, the Subject Outline represents the latest official information.

Inadmissible Subject Combinations:  MI5003 and MI5021 and MI3421

Availabilities