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Course

Microbiology with Lab

BIOL-X403.35

Learn Microbiology Online: From Microorganisms to Modern Medicine

 

Beneath every surface and within every living thing, microorganisms quietly shape our world. This online microbiology course with laboratory component illuminates these invisible architects of life, from their intricate cellular structures to their profound impact on health and disease. Whether you're preparing for a healthcare career, interested in biotechnology, or curious about the microscopic forces that influence our daily lives, you'll gain both theoretical knowledge and hands-on laboratory experience in this foundational course.

 

Learning Outcomes

 
  • Explore the diversity and impact of microorganisms throughout human history
  • Examine the structure and function of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and other microbes
  • Analyze microbial growth, reproduction, and control methods
  • Understand pathogenic mechanisms and immune responses
  • Master essential laboratory techniques and microscopy skills

About the Laboratory Component

 

The hands-on laboratory component is conducted at home using a comprehensive kit from Carolina Sciences (purchased separately). You'll perform multi-day experiments that reinforce course concepts and develop practical skills. The kit includes all necessary materials except for common household items.  

To order lab kit:  https://www.carolina.com/carolina-distance-learning-science-kits/university-of-california-san-diego-microbiology/584202.pr

The approximate cost of the labkit is $377 + shipping.

Course Topics

  • Microbial Fundamentals: Explore the diversity of microorganisms, their cellular structures, and their crucial roles in nature and human health
  • Cell Biology and Physiology: Study the differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells, microbial metabolism, and growth patterns
  • Disease and Immunity: Investigate pathogenic microbes, infection mechanisms, and host immune responses
  • Laboratory Techniques: Learn essential microbiological methods including staining, culture techniques, and identification procedures

Course Information

Online
6.00 units
$995.00
Notes:

Course sessions

Closed

Section ID:

EL00003211

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

Textbook: 1.) Microbiology: An Introduction, 14th Ed., Authors: Tortora, Funke & Case, ISBN-13: 9780138200398

Policies:

Drop Refund Deadline:

09/28/2026

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Closed

Instructors:

Maria Fernandez-Ochoa, Ph.D.
Maria Fernandez-Ochoa, Ph.D.

Marketing Communications Manager, MO BIO Laboratories

Maria Wendy Ochoa, Ph.D., is currently the marketing communications manager at MO BIO Laboratories, a biotech company that develops molecular biology kits for microbiologists  Previously, she was the manager of the electron microscopy facility at the Sanford-Burnham Institute. She has extensive experience in structural biology, in particular, x-ray crystallography, Cryo-electron microscopy and electron tomography.

Full Bio
Elliot Lee, Ph.D.
Elliot Lee, Ph.D.
Elliot Lee, Ph.D, has an abiding passion for science education. After completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Utah, he earned a Master's degree from the Harvard Graduate School of Education with a focus on technology in education. He then entered the University of Washington's Microbiology PhD program where he used classical microbiology methods along with "big data" techniques including metaproteomics and metagenomics to research the vaginal microbiome and the condition bacterial vaginosis. He is currently a postdoctoral fellow at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle where he continues to study bacteria-bacteria and bacteria-host interactions in the vaginal microbiome."
 
Full Bio
Wait List

Section ID:

EL00003212

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

Textbook: 1.) Microbiology: An Introduction, 14th Ed., Authors: Tortora, Funke & Case, ISBN-13: 9780138200398

Policies:

Drop Refund Deadline:

10/05/2026

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Wait List

Instructors:

Ronald Rodriguez
Ronald Rodriguez
Maria Fernandez-Ochoa, Ph.D.
Maria Fernandez-Ochoa, Ph.D.

Marketing Communications Manager, MO BIO Laboratories

Maria Wendy Ochoa, Ph.D., is currently the marketing communications manager at MO BIO Laboratories, a biotech company that develops molecular biology kits for microbiologists  Previously, she was the manager of the electron microscopy facility at the Sanford-Burnham Institute. She has extensive experience in structural biology, in particular, x-ray crystallography, Cryo-electron microscopy and electron tomography.

Full Bio
add to cart

Section ID:

EL00003214

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

Textbook: 1.) Microbiology: An Introduction, 14th Ed., Authors: Tortora, Funke & Case, ISBN-13: 9780138200398

Policies:

Drop Refund Deadline:

10/05/2026

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
add to cart

Instructors:

Maria Fernandez-Ochoa, Ph.D.
Maria Fernandez-Ochoa, Ph.D.

Marketing Communications Manager, MO BIO Laboratories

Maria Wendy Ochoa, Ph.D., is currently the marketing communications manager at MO BIO Laboratories, a biotech company that develops molecular biology kits for microbiologists  Previously, she was the manager of the electron microscopy facility at the Sanford-Burnham Institute. She has extensive experience in structural biology, in particular, x-ray crystallography, Cryo-electron microscopy and electron tomography.

Full Bio
Ariel Rabines
Ariel Rabines