Microbiology Minor

Overview

Students in baccalaureate programs in a biological, biomedical, or public health-related fields benefit from this microbiology minor since it makes them eligible to sit for national certification exams, such as the ASCP Technologist in Microbiology board of certification exam, and be certified microbiologists.

Outcomes

• Apply principles of microbiology laboratory procedures to perform diagnostic analyses on patient samples
• Correlate laboratory and quality control data to assess patient test results
• Apply microbiology theory and principles as they relate to human infectious disease diagnosis
• Apply ethical decision-making to issues related to microbiology laboratory practice

Required Courses

MLS 4116 - Clinical Bacteriology I (3 credits)

Principles of clinical microbiology with emphasis on pathogenic characteristics, isolation, and identification of bacteria related to human disease; theoretical approach to the current diagnostic techniques and identification systems used in clinical practice. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

MLS 4117 - Clinical Bacteriology II (2 credits)

The etiology of infectious diseases in different body sites with an emphasis on the epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, and laboratory identification of suspected etiologic agents; specimen collection and handling, diagnosis and treatment of medically significant bacteria. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

MLS 4119 - Parasitology, Mycology, and Virology (2 credits)

Principles and procedures involved in the diagnosis of parasitic, fungal, and viral infections; disease causation, specimen collection and handling, laboratory identification and treatment of medically significant fungi, parasites, and viruses. Proctor fee. Restricted to students in the medical laboratory science program.

MLS 4141 - Immunology and Serology (3 credits)

Principles of the immune system’s components, functions, interactions with microorganisms, and the clinical applications of immunologic assays to human health and disease.

MLS 4151 - Molecular Diagnostic (3 credits)

Introduction to the molecular techniques used to diagnose human disease; technology, theory, and methodology of specific molecular protocols that can be used within a clinical laboratory setting to aid in disease diagnostics including those of genetic, oncogenic, and infections origin. Proctor fee.

MLS 4158 - Laboratory Management and Operations (3 credits)

Introduction to critical concepts of lab management, including leadership theory, management principles, human resource management, financial management, quality management, and laboratory operations. Proctor fee.

MLS 4164 - Clinical Microbiology Practicum (4 credits)

Students apply medical knowledge and clinical skills gained in MLS 4123 (Clinical Microbiology I), MLS 4124 (Clinical Microbiology II), and MLS 4151 (Molecular Diagnostics). Proctor fee.

Total credit hours = 20

How to Declare a Minor in Microbiology

Students interested in pursuing a minor in microbiology should consult with their academic advisor to navigate the process of declaring a minor within their specific school or program.