Bachelor of Science Honours in Microbiology

As indicated in the overall degree statement, with the focus on those skills and knowledge required in the discipline of Microbiology.

Entrance requirements

As indicated in the general form.

Subject specific outcomes

Graduates of the programme will

1. Demonstrate understanding of the Microbiology with particular reference to the areas of bacteriology, virology, microbial-ecology, molecular biology and environmental, industrial and health related microbiology and advanced knowledge, insight in the areas of cell biology, recombinant DNA technology, the theory of microbiological technology and general principles of microbial genetics including nucleic acid replication, transcription, translation, mutation, DNS repair, regulation of gene expression, conjugation and transduction.
2. Use advanced practical skills in the areas of cell biology, recombinant DNA technology and microbiological technology; and practical skills in modern techniques, including radio isotope technology, cell culture techniques, microscopy and protein separation, in order to isolate nucleic acids and perform standard in vitro manipulations associated with DNA cloning such as gel electrophoresis of nucleic acids, restriction enzyme digestion, legation and bacterial cell transformations, and be familiar with the theory of current methods in genetic manipulation.
3. Develop skills to investigate phenomena related to Microbiology and demonstrate an understanding of the changing and contested nature of knowledge in science, and in particular basic skills needed in conducting original research to completion.
4. Work effectively in a team to investigate and report on Microbiological phenomena.
5. Be able to effectively handle the literature in specialised fields of Microbiology, effectively communicate scientific information verbally and in writing and be conversant on general current topics in the field of Microbiology.
6. Demonstrate effective and responsible use of safety, health and environmental issues while practising both in the laboratory and the field, and in particular advanced general laboratory skills in microbiological environments.
7. Use knowledge from the physical, chemical and biological disciplines to solve problems across a variety of contexts.

Graduates of the programme will be aware of

1. Different thinking and learning strategies to solve problems using learning independence and resource management.
2. Participating in the community as responsible scientists.
3. Demonstrating social and environmental awareness in dealing and reporting on Microbiological issues.
4. The career opportunities available in the many fields which make up the discipline of Microbiology and their application in the community.
5. Entrepreneurial opportunities through exposure to examples in the community, of the application of Microbiological knowledge.

Integrated Assessment

Assessment Practice: Formative Outcome(s) Module(s)

• Practical 1,4,5,6 BM410, BM460
• Report 1,4 BM410
• Essay 1,5 BM420, BM430, BM440
• Seminar 1,5,6,7 BM450, BM460
• Treatise 1,5,6,7 BM460

Assessment Practice: Summative Outcome(s) Module(s)

• Examination 1,5 All