Microbiology

Learn Microbiology Online: Discover Microbial Diversity, Disease, and Scientific Applications Dive into the fascinating world of microbes with this online microbiology course.

Microorganisms make up an estimated 90% of the Earth’s biomass and are central to life on our planet—from recycling organic matter and atmospheric gases to powering innovations in medicine and biotechnology.

This course introduces the fundamentals of microbiology, covering microbial diversity, cell structure and function, physiology, genetics, reproduction, and host-parasite interactions.

Through a combination of lectures, interactive activities, and practical applications, you’ll learn how microbes influence human health, society, and the environment.

By the end of the course, you will be able to describe the characteristics of bacteria, viruses, fungi, protozoa, parasites, and prions, understand microbial growth and reproduction, evaluate immune responses to infections, and apply basic microbiological techniques such as staining and metabolic testing.

This course is designed for anyone curious about the microscopic organisms that shape our world, providing both foundational knowledge and practical insights into their critical roles in science and everyday life.

Learning Outcomes Describe historical aspects of microorganisms' impacts on human societies.

Describe the characteristics of bacteria, virus, fungi, protozoa, parasites and prions as they relate to medical microbiology Compare the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells.

Identify the fundamentals of microbial reproduction, growth and control.

Explain pathogenic features of disease causing microbes.

Evaluate the basic immune response to infection by microbial agents.

Apply fundamental stains, basic staining techniques, and corresponding bacterial and fungal morphology Demonstrate the uses of the various media and metabolic/enzymatic testing protocols Prerequisites There are no required prerequisites for this course.

This course assumes knowledge of general biology.

Course Format This online microbiology course follows an asynchronous format, allowing you to study flexibly while maintaining academic rigor.

Weekly modules include structured content, practical exercises, and clear deadlines to ensure comprehensive understanding of genetic principles.

Transferring for College Credit Many UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies courses may transfer to other institutions for college credit.

The receiving institution determines credit transfer.

We recommend consulting with your intended institution's registrar's office before enrolling to confirm transfer eligibility.

Lab Option Students interested in this course with a lab component can enroll in BIOL-40335 Microbiology with Lab .