BIOL 334L

BIOL 334L
Microbiology Lab

Catalog Entry

Biology 334L. Microbiology Lab
Three hours laboratory (1).

Pre- or Corequisites: BIOL 334.

This course provides hands-on laboratory experience in microbiology, emphasizing the development of practical laboratory skills and scientific reasoning. Students engage in experimental investigations that reinforce core microbiological concepts and apply laboratory methods to real-world biological questions. The course is designed to support students preparing for advanced study or careers requiring laboratory competency in the biological sciences.

 

Detailed Description of Content of the Course

Laboratory topics include the cultivation, staining, and microscopic identification of microorganisms; aseptic technique and sterilization methods; use of selective and differential culture media; biochemical and physiological characterization of microorganisms; and analysis of microbial communities relevant to food, water, clinical, and environmental systems. Emphasis is placed on proper laboratory technique, experimental design, data analysis, and interpretation of results.

 

Detailed Description of Conduct of Course

This laboratory provides students with the opportunity to develop proficiency in the safe handling and manipulation of microorganisms while learning fundamental techniques used in microbial identification and analysis. Students engage in laboratory activities that emphasize biosafety, proper laboratory practices, and interpretation of experimental results. The laboratory may include exposure to methods used for the detection, growth, and identification of bacteria, fungi, and/or viruses. Collectively, these experiences support the development of practical laboratory skills and an understanding of how microbiological methods are applied in research, clinical, environmental, and industrial contexts.

 

Student Learning Outcomes

Goals and Objectives of the Course

The goals of the one semester microbiology lab course are:

1. To develop students’ proficiency in fundamental microbiological laboratory techniques.
2. To familiarize students with laboratory equipment and methods used in the cultivation, observation, and identification of microorganisms.
3. To strengthen students’ ability to collect, analyze, and interpret experimental data generated from microbiological investigations.
4. To promote understanding of how microbiological laboratory methods are applied to real-world contexts.

 

Assessment Measures

Student learning will be assessed using a combination of written, practical, and skills-based evaluations. Assessment methods may include laboratory reports, laboratory notebook evaluations, practical or skills-based examinations, written assessments, and oral presentations or reports.

 

Other Course Information

None

 

Review and Approval

March 3, 2026