Course Catalogue

View Specification Document | Reading List

The course describes the role of the host immune response to several human pathogens; the evasion mechanisms employed by these organisms to aid their survival; and how infections are diagnosed and controlled by vaccination and chemotherapy.

Normally, 6 hours of lectures per week (usually Mon/Tue/Wed), laboratory work (usually Thursday all day and Friday mornings), tutorials as organised. 

Normally, this course is only open to students admitted to Year 3 of a programme for which this is a compulsory course. The course may also be available to visiting students, at the discretion of the Life Sciences Chief Adviser and the Course Coordinator.

None

The course will be assessed by a 3-hour examination (worth 60%) and in-course assessment (worth 40%).

The in-course assessment comprises 4 assessments accumulating 40% overall: 1 essay (10%), 1 lab report (10%), poster presentation (10%) and an oral presentation (10%). 

To provide students with a broad-based knowledge and understanding of Medical Microbiology which is appropriate for further study at the final year Honours level, or for employment as a BSc Designated degree graduate in a wide range of employment.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

■ Describe and explain the key features of the host immune response and its role in microbial infection;

■ Explain the modifications and mechanisms employed by microorganisms to evade the immune response;

■ Define antimicrobial strategies used to help control infectious diseases;

■ Interpret, analyse and discuss microbiology in both written and oral formats;

■ Investigate experimental problems by use of a wide range of laboratory techniques;

■ Identify and critically review scientific literature and draw valid conclusions from them.