Pharmaceutical Microbiology

Please note

This document only provides information for the academic year selected and does not form part of the student contract

School:

School of Applied Sciences

Credit Rating:

Level (including FHEQ):

I (FHEQ Level 5)

Graded or Non Graded:

Graded

Version Valid From:

2020-09-01

Version Number

2022.01

Learning Methods

Tutorial and Project Supervision

Guided Independent Study

Lecture

Practical Classes and Demonstrations

Synopsis

This module provides an understanding of the main groups of disease causing microorganisms; experience with the manipulation and growth of microorganisms; an understanding of the major microbial infections and the pharmaceutical approaches available for their control which is inline with the theme for this year in understanding how medicines work. … For more content click the Read More button below.

The module begins with a general introduction to the relevant groups of microorganisms i.e. fungi, bacteria, protozoa and viruses. It then moves on to describe the fundamentals of microbial growth and methods available for its control. The ubiquity of microbial life in the environment and as a component of a healthy body is explored and the module then moves on to key aspects of infection and infection control. A detailed account of the infections of the major physiological systems such as skin, URTI, LRTI, etc is also provided along with a discussion of classical and emerging diseases. The module has a strong practical component which complements and consolidates the theoretical aspects of the course by providing hands on experience with the manipulation and growth of microorganisms.

Learning Strategy

Knowledge transfer will be achieved via lectures and the use of a designated course text Tutorials will be used to allow students integrate their learning by working through problem sheets and engaging in group discussions. Tutorials will be supported by directed study which will involve the completion of information gathering … For more content click the Read More button below.

Knowledge transfer will be achieved via lectures and the use of a designated course text

Tutorials will be used to allow students integrate their learning by working through problem sheets and engaging in group discussions. Tutorials will be supported by directed study which will involve the completion of information gathering tasks between tutorial sessions. Students will be able to check their level of understanding via the multiple choice UniLearn tests. The knowledge base of the module will be further underpinning by the practical sessions which will provide a more active hands on approach to learning and which will cater for those students with a more kinaesthetic learning style. The laboratory sessions will facilitate the transfer of practical microbiology skills.

Outline Syllabus

Introduction to MicrobiologyCharacteristics of the key microbial groups i.e. bacteria, fungi, protozoa and virusesFundamentals of microbial growthHuman body flora and environmental microbial loadThe basis of pathogenicity and virulenceDiseases and infections of the main human systemsPrescribing policiesEpidemiology and public health (see SIP2007)Introduction to immunologyVaccination and immunisationAntimicrobial agents mechanisms, resistance and evaluationDisinfectants, … For more content click the Read More button below.

Introduction to Microbiology
Characteristics of the key microbial groups i.e. bacteria, fungi, protozoa and viruses
Fundamentals of microbial growth
Human body flora and environmental microbial load
The basis of pathogenicity and virulence
Diseases and infections of the main human systems
Prescribing policies
Epidemiology and public health (see SIP2007)
Introduction to immunology
Vaccination and immunisation
Antimicrobial agents mechanisms, resistance and evaluation
Disinfectants, antiseptics, sterilisation and preservation
Resistance to antimicrobials
Aseptic technique and how to sample, grow, count and identify microorganisms (see SHP3009)

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students will

explain the fundamental characteristics of microorganisms which result in infection and human disease.

understand and describe the common microbial infections affecting the major physiological systems.

explain the modes of action of common antimicrobial agents and any associated microbial resistance.

apply appropriate aseptic technique whilst working in a class II microbiology laboratory.

carry out a range of basic laboratory manipulations which allow the isolations, growth, enumeration and characterisation of bacteria and fungi.

Formative Assessment

Assessment 1: In-Class Test

Summative Assessment

Assessment 1: Written Assignment

Description:The assessment will be split 20:80 between course work and exam. The course work will consist of practical lab book and a report covering all lab classes covered during the module.

Assessment Weight:20

Assessment Length:2500 Words (Word Count)

Module Learning Outcomes:MLO4, MLO5

Individual or Group:Individual

Final Assessment Component:No

Marked Anonymously:No

Eligible for Tutor Reassessment:No

Assessment 2: Exam

Assessment Criteria

Students must pass all components of assessment. The module handbook will provide additional guidance for students on the specific assessment criteria and marking schedules applied to individual pieces of work.

Course and Module Catalogue