Microbiology is the study of bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses. A knowledge of microbiology will provide students with an understanding of:
Microbiology is concerned with the study of microorganisms such as bacteria, fungi, parasites and viruses, their structure and way of life, how they interact with people and other living organisms in both harmful and beneficial ways and how they can be exploited to our advantage. All these aspects are featured in subjects commencing in second year which progress in third year to the molecular biology of microorganisms and some applications of microbiology, such as biotechnology and medical microbiology. In the current era of recombinant DNA technology and genetic engineering, plasmids and viruses provide the essential vehicles for genetic manipulation and expression in recipient cells. Practical classes are designed to provide laboratory skills in safe handling of microorganisms, experimental procedures illustrating their properties and functions, laboratory diagnosis, and genetic manipulation and expression.
The point value of each semester subject is eight points in second year and twelve points in third year. The first-semester subject must be completed before proceeding to the second semester in each year. Useful companion subjects are biochemistry, genetics, chemistry, botany, physiology, anatomy and (available third year only) immunology or pharmacology.
Students may take an honours BSc degree in microbiology in a fourth year of study which combines the study of advanced topics and a defined research project that continues throughout the year. Studies for graduates are available leading to a Graduate Diploma in Microbiology. The department has excellent facilities for graduate studies.
The chief examiners are Dr Harley Dean (second year), Dr Andrew Davidson (third year), and Associate Professor Peter Wright (fourth year).
MIC4000
| Published by Monash University, Clayton, Victoria
3168 Copyright © Monash University 1996 - All Rights Reserved - Caution Authorised by the Academic Registrar December 1996 |