Courses & Units

Microbiology KLA210

Hobart

Introduction

Microbiology is the study of microorganisms- how they work and their role in our world. Microorganisms encompass huge diversity and include bacteria, viruses, fungi and single-celled animals and algae. Although not visible to the naked eye, microorganisms have a profound effect on our world. They are fundamental to the basic nutrient and biogeochemical cycles that underpin life on Earth; they cause infectious diseases, including diseases of crops and farmed animals; and they are used to make foods and a vast array of chemicals used in agriculture, food processing, mining and other industries. Importantly, the study of microorganisms can tell us much about the origin and history of life, and has taught us about basic life processes that are now being exploited in the various fields of molecular biology.

This unit provides students with a basic knowledge of microbiology with particular emphasis on the structure, function and ecophysiology of bacteria and viruses. The unit considers the place of microorganisms in the evolution of life on earth, their structure, chemistry, biology and ecology, and their role in disease, ecosystems, food production and biotechnology. The practical component equips students with skills in the cultivation and identification of bacteria and mycelial fungi as well as an introduction to techniques in molecular microbiology. Combined, the theory content and training in laboratory skills prepares students for advanced level Microbiology subjects.

Summary

Unit name Microbiology
Unit code KLA210
Credit points 12.5
College/School College of Sciences and Engineering
Tasmanian Institute of Agriculture
Discipline Agriculture and Food Systems
Coordinator Doctor Lyndal Mellefont
Available as an elective?
Delivered By Delivered wholly by the provider
Level Intermediate

Availability

Location Study period Attendance options Available to
Hobart Semester 1 On-Campus International Domestic

Key

On-campus
Off-Campus
International students
Domestic students

Key Dates

Study Period Start date Census date WW date End date
Semester 1 22/2/2021 23/3/2021 12/4/2021 30/5/2021

* The Final WW Date is the final date from which you can withdraw from the unit without academic penalty, however you will still incur a financial liability (refer to How do I withdraw from a unit? for more information).

Unit census dates currently displaying for 2021 are indicative and subject to change. Finalised census dates for 2021 will be available from the 1st October 2020. Note census date cutoff is 11.59pm AEST (AEDT during October to March).

About Census Dates

Learning Outcomes

  • discuss the importance, both beneficial and harmful, of the five major groups of microorganisms to human welfare and related activities
  • explain how the physiological characteristics of specific groups of microorganisms affect the range of environments they can occupy and their activities within them
  • select and describe appropriate methods for control, study and exploitation of microorganisms for different practical and research applications
  • competently and safely perform fundamental laboratory techniques used in the practice and study of microorganisms within a pc i/ii microbiology laboratory
  • select, undertake and interpret appropriate tests to differentiate and classify microorganisms on the basis of the morphology, metabolism and genetics

Fee Information

Field of Education Commencing Student Contribution 1,3 Grandfathered Student Contribution 1,3 Approved Pathway Course Student Contribution 2,3 Domestic Full Fee 4
010911 $993.00 $993.00 not applicable $2,354.00
  • Available as a Commonwealth Supported Place
  • HECS-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility3
  • FEE-HELP is available on this unit, depending on your eligibility4

1 Please refer to more information on student contribution amounts.
2 Please refer to more information on eligibility and Approved Pathway courses.
3 Please refer to more information on eligibility for HECS-HELP.
4 Please refer to more information on eligibility for FEE-HELP.

If you have any questions in relation to the fees, please contact UConnect or more information is available on StudyAssist.

Please note: international students should refer to What is an indicative Fee? to get an indicative course cost.

Requisites

Prerequisites

((Admission into a Masters course) OR ((KZA161 OR KPA161 OR KPZ164 OR KRA113 OR KRA121 OR CHG105 OR CZZ101)))

Mutual Exclusions

You cannot enrol in this unit as well as the following:

JFA214 AND KLA437 AND KLA200

Teaching

Teaching Pattern

26 lectures, 13 x 3-hr practical classes

AssessmentPractical test (30%)|Examination (60%)|Assignments (x10) (10%)
TimetableView the lecture timetable | View the full unit timetable

Textbooks

Required

Required readings will be listed in the unit outline prior to the start of classes.

LinksBooktopia textbook finder

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