NATS 3030 Medical Microbiology

This is an archived copy of the 2021-2022 catalog. To access the most recent version of the catalog, please visit https://hbook.westernsydney.edu.au.

Credit Points 10

Legacy Code 300826

Coordinator Colin Stack Opens in new window

Description Infectious diseases worldwide are the most common cause of illness. Medical microbiology is subdivided into four areas: virology, bacteriology, mycology (the study of fungi) and parasitology. The rapid evolution of microbes means that this is an area that does not remain static. This unit has a modern approach to the study of the balance between the host, humans, and the very large army of potential invaders. Students will embark on a journey into the world of pathogenic micro-organisms exploring the molecular mechanisms by which these override host defences leading to disease. Infectious diseases of the human body systems as well those of the immunocompromised and infections contracted in the healthcare setting (nosocomial) are discussed. The theory will be supported with laboratory experience representing diagnostic procedures for the identification of infectious agents.

School Science

Discipline Medical Science

Student Contribution Band HECS Band 2 10cp

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Level Undergraduate Level 3 subject

Pre-requisite(s) BIOS 2022

Equivalent Subjects LGYA 5866 - Medical Microbiology NATS 3031 - Medical Microbiology

Assessment

The following table summarises the standard assessment tasks for this subject. Please note this is a guide only. Assessment tasks are regularly updated, where there is a difference your Learning Guide takes precedence.

Item Length Percent Threshold Individual/Group Task
Report and Presentation 1,500 words plus 5 minute presentation 35 N Individual
Practical Exam 60 minutes 30 N Individual
Final Exam 2 hours plus 5 minutes extra for uploading to turinitin 35 N Individual

Prescribed Texts

  • Kiser, K.M., Payne, W.C., &Taff, T.A. (2011) Clinical Laboratory Microbiology: A Practical Approach. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Prentice Hall.
  • Sherris Medical Microbiology by Kenneth Ryan 2018 (McGraw-Hill)

Teaching Periods