Microbiology with Lab
BIOL-40335
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 HOL 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. You will receive instructions on where to order the kit from your instructor on the first day of class.
The approximate cost of the labpaq is $350 + 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
Course sessions
Section ID:
Class type:
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:
All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 5/12/2025
Note:
Schedule:
Instructor:
Cecilia Cheng
Section ID:
Class type:
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:
All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 5/26/2025
Note:
Schedule:
Instructor: Lisa Zeigler
Dr. Lisa Zeigler (Allen) is an Assistant Research Scientist at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego (UCSD) and Assistant Professor in the Microbial and Environmental Genomics Group at the J. Craig Venter Institute. Dr. Zeigler Allen received a B.S. in Biological Sciences from Washington State University and a Ph.D. in Oceanography from Scripps Institution of Oceanography (UCSD). She has extensive experience in the area of viral genomics, specifically using environmental metagenomic and metatranscriptomic tools to investigate food web interactions in the ocean. In addition, Dr. Zeigler Allen has developed curricula as part of local outreach for K-12 students related to the oceans, their microbiome, and connections to human-influenced perturbations to over 50,000 student contacts over the last four years.
Section ID:
Class type:
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:
Microbiology: An Introduction 13th
by Tortora, Gerard, B. Funke & C. Case
ISBN / ASIN: 9780134605180
You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 5/26/2025
Schedule:
Instructor: Ariel Rabines
Section ID:
Class type:
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:
All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 6/9/2025
Note:
Schedule:
Instructor: Ariel Rabines
Section ID:
Class type:
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:
Microbiology: An Introduction 11th
by Tortora, Funke
ISBN / ASIN: 9780321733603
You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 6/30/2025
Schedule:
Instructor:
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.
Section ID:
Class type:
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:
Microbiology: An Introduction 11th
by Tortora, Funke
ISBN / ASIN: 9780321733603
You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 7/21/2025
Schedule:
Instructor:
Eva Zajac
She has gained her teaching experience at Grossmont College and National University where for the past 12 years she has been an adjunct professor, teaching variety of courses such as microbiology, inorganic chemistry, and science.
Section ID:
Class type:
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:
Microbiology: An Introduction 11th
by Tortora, Funke
ISBN / ASIN: 9780321733603
You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 8/4/2025
Schedule:
Instructor:
Cecilia Cheng
Section ID:
Class type:
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:
Microbiology: An Introduction 11th
by Tortora, Funke
ISBN / ASIN: 9780321733603
You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 8/11/2025
Schedule:
Instructor: Lisa Zeigler
Dr. Lisa Zeigler (Allen) is an Assistant Research Scientist at Scripps Institution of Oceanography, University of California San Diego (UCSD) and Assistant Professor in the Microbial and Environmental Genomics Group at the J. Craig Venter Institute. Dr. Zeigler Allen received a B.S. in Biological Sciences from Washington State University and a Ph.D. in Oceanography from Scripps Institution of Oceanography (UCSD). She has extensive experience in the area of viral genomics, specifically using environmental metagenomic and metatranscriptomic tools to investigate food web interactions in the ocean. In addition, Dr. Zeigler Allen has developed curricula as part of local outreach for K-12 students related to the oceans, their microbiome, and connections to human-influenced perturbations to over 50,000 student contacts over the last four years.
Section ID:
Class type:
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:
Microbiology: An Introduction 11th
by Tortora, Funke
ISBN / ASIN: 9780321733603
You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.
Policies:
- No refunds after: 8/11/2025
Schedule:
Instructor: Ariel Rabines
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