Microbiology (BIO220)
This module will provide an introduction to the microbial world. There will also be a laboratory part where basic microbiological techniques will be taught.
Course description for study year 2025-2026
Facts
Course code
BIO220
Version
1
Credits (ECTS)
10
Semester tution start
Autumn
Number of semesters
1
Exam semester
Autumn
Language of instruction
English
Offered by
Time table
Content
Microbes have been living on Earth for a long time and they have influenced the planet during that time. The evolution of microorganisms will be discussed and how they converted Earth into a, for humans, habitable planet. Basic information on microorganisms will be presented as well as their role in health and disease. Modern methods will be discussed and how we can now study the microbiome that is all around us. The lectures will be supported by modern scientific papers and will be as much as possible research-led. There will also be a laboratory part where basic microbiological techniques will be taught.
Learning outcome
Module-specific skills
- Demonstrate an appreciation of the importance and diversity of micro-organisms in the environment and to humans, including their economic impact.
- Demonstrate understanding of classification schemes applied to microorganisms, including those based on molecular criteria.
- Demonstrate familiarity with the principal features of bacterial cells, particularly those features which differ from eukaryotic cells, including genetic information and its transfer.
- Know how to study and cultivate micro-organisms.
- Demonstrate an ability to handle microorganisms safely in the laboratory.
- Demonstrate competent use of the light microscope.
Discipline-specific skills
- Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of microbiology.
- Demonstrate knowledge of essential facts and theory in a subdiscipline of the biosciences.
- Begin to evaluate aspects of the biosciences with reference to textbooks.
- With some guidance, deploy established techniques of analysis, practical investigation, and inquiry within the biosciences.
Personal and key skills
- Work with others safely in a practical laboratory environment.
- With some guidance, begin to develop the skills for independent study.
- With some guidance, select and properly manage information drawn from books, scientific publications, and the internet.
- With guidance, learn how to write a scientific text.
Required prerequisite knowledge
None
Recommended prerequisites
BIO100 Cell Biology, BIO200 Biochemistry
Exam
Written exam and written assignment linked to the lab work
| Form of assessment | Weight | Duration | Marks | Aid |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written exam | 3/5 | 2 Hours | Letter grades | None permitted |
| Written assignment linked to the lab work | 2/5 | Letter grades |
In order to pass the course, both components (digital written exam and written lab assignment) need to be passed. No resit is offered for the laboratory exercises. If a students wishes to redo the lab, this can be done next time the course is taught.
Coursework requirements
Mandatory labs are to be completed at the times and in the groups that are assigned and published. Valid absence due to illness or other reasons must be communicated as soon as possible to teaching staff. In cases of valid absence, it may be possible to complete the lab at other times, where agreed upon with the teaching staff. This is not an entitlement.
Course teacher(s)
Course teacher:
Mark van der GiezenCourse coordinator:
Mark van der GiezenCoordinator laboratory exercises:
Julie NikolaisenHead of Department:
Päivi Annele Teivainen-LædreCoordinator laboratory exercises:
Liv Margareth AkslandMethod of work
Classes consist of taught lectures, group discussions, and guest speakers. The laboratory component is four hours per week over a six week period.
Overlapping courses
| Course | Reduction (SP) |
|---|---|
| Microbiology (BIK190_1) | 10 |
Open for
Admission to Single Courses at the Faculty of Science and Technology
Environmental Engineering - Master of Science Degree Programme
Industrial Economics - Master of Science Degree Programme, Five Year
Petroleum Engineering - Master of Science Degree Programme
Petroleum Engineering - Master of Science Degree Programme, Five Years
Exchange programme at Faculty of Science and Technology
Course assessment
The faculty decides whether early dialogue should be conducted in all or selected groups of courses offered by the faculty. The purpose is to gather feedback from students for making changes and adjustments to the course during the current semester. In addition, a digital evaluation, students’ course evaluation, must be conducted at least once every three years. Its purpose is to collect students` experiences with the course.
