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MICROBIOLOGY (MIC)
College of Science and Allied Health
Department Chair: Michael Winfrey
3028 Cowley Hall, (608)785-6964
e-mail: winfrey.mich@uwlax.edu 
www.uwlax.edu/microbiology

Professor: Winfrey; Associate Professors: Bratina, Hoffman, Rajagopal, Rott, Schwan, Taylor, B; 
Assistant Professor: Sewell;
 Lecturer: Anglehart. 

Center of Excellence in Microbiology

            The University of Wisconsin System and the Board of Regents have identified the Microbiology Program and UW-L as a Center of Excellence based on the exceptional quality of the undergraduate laboratory science education. The Microbiology Program has been nationally recognized for the overall quality of the program and prepares its graduates for a diversity of professional opportunities at the baccalaureate level. Since the inception of a major in 1984, more than 95 percent of the microbiology graduates interested in employment have obtained positions in hospitals, clinics, private laboratories, food and fermentation industries, biotechnology companies, pharmaceutical industries, universities, and government agencies.

Microbiology is also an excellent curricular track to prepare students for graduate or professional schools (medical, dental, veterinary, optometry). Microbiology provides exceptional training post-graduate education in numerous areas, and also provides abundant employment opportunities for students who do not go on to graduate or professional school.

The Microbiology major is housed within the department of microbiology and provides students an extensive curriculum with a strong laboratory emphasis. Microbiology faculty have obtained over one million dollars in grant funding within the past decade to ensure that students gain experience in the latest state-of-the-art techniques. Students may choose from an extensive list of microbiology electives and tailor their major to meet their career goals. In addition to the microbiology major, the department also offers microbiology majors with concentrations in biomedical and environmental science for students wishing to focus in these areas.

 All microbiology majors receive individual counseling throughout their undergraduate years. The faculty have active research programs providing abundant opportunities for undergraduate research. In addition, numerous internships are available with local and regional laboratories for microbiology majors. An active microbiology club affiliated with the American Society for Microbiology enhances the educational experience. For additional information regarding the Microbiology Center of Excellence, contact the microbiology department chair, Cowley Hall, University of Wisconsin-   La Crosse, La Crosse, WI 54601. 

Microbiology Major (All colleges, excluding Teacher Certification programs) — 40 microbiology/biology credits:
A. Biology core (7-8 credits): BIO 105 and a second biology course from BIO 203, 204, 210, 303, 306, 312 or 315
B. Microbiology core (22 credits): MIC 230, 350, 406, 416, 425, 461
C. Microbiology/biology electives (10-11 credits; at least 6 credits from List I, a maximum of 2 credits from List III.  One course from List II strongly recommended):
           List I:  MIC 407, 420, 421, 426, 427, 428, 434, 440, 454, 460
           List II:  BIO 406, 412, 413, 449, 463; MIC 442, 455
           List III:  MIC 479, 489, 499 (only one credit of MIC 479 applies to list III)

D. Additional requirements: One course in math (MTH 145 or above), one course in physics (PHY 125 or 103 and 104 or 203 and 204) and a minimum of 19 credits of chemistry are required including: CHM 103, 104, 300 (or 303, 304, and 305), 325 (or 417 and 418). 

Microbiology Major—Biomedical Concentration (All colleges, excluding Teacher Certification programs) — 40 microbiology/biology credits:
A. Biology core (12 credits): BIO 105, 312, 313
B. Microbiology core (23 credits): MIC 230, 406, 407, 416, 425, 461
C. Microbiology/biology electives (5 additional credits; at least 3 credits from List I, a maximum of 2 credits from List III):
           List I: MIC350, 420, 421, 426, 440, 454
           List II:  BIO 406, 412, 413, 435, 463, MIC 455
           List III: MIC 479, 489, 499 (only one credit of MIC 479 applies to list III)
D  Additional requirements: One course in math (MTH 145 or above), one course in physics (PHY 125 or 103 and 104 or 203 and 204), and a minimum of 19 credits of chemistry including: CHM 103, 104, 300, (or 303, 304, and 305), 325 (or 417 and 418). 

Microbiology Major—Environmental Science Concentration (All colleges, excluding Teacher Certification programs) — 40 microbiology/biology credits:
A. Biology core (7-8 credits): BIO 105 and a second biology course from BIO 203, 204, 210, or 303
B. Microbiology core (21 credits): MIC 230, 350, 416, 425, 434, 461
C. Microbiology/biology electives (11-12 credits; at least 5 credits from List I*, at least 3 credits from List II, and a maximum of 2 credits from List III):
             List I: MIC406, 407, 420, 421, 427, 428, 440; BIO 307 or 341 or 464*, 447, 448, 449
             List II: MIC 442, 455; BIO 406, 412, 463
             List III: MIC 479, 489, 499 (only 1 credit of MIC 479 applies to list III)

D. Additional requirements: MTH 145 or 250 and 175 or 207; one course in physics (PHY 125 or 103 and 104 or 203 and 204), and a minimum of 24 credits of chemistry are required, including: CHM 103, 104, 300 (or 303, 304, and 305), 301, 325 (or 417 and 418). 

In order for any Microbiology majors (including concentrations) to continue in upper division microbiology course work they must: 

1.  Complete BIO 105, MIC 230, and a second course in biological science from BIO 203, 204, 210, 303, 306, 312, 315.

2.  Complete three semesters of chemistry (CHM 103, 104 and 300 or 301 or 303).

3.  Have a minimum GPA of 2.5 in the six science courses listed above.

4.  Complete one semester of math (MTH 145 or higher) with a grade of C or better. 

Microbiology students then may apply for continuance in the microbiology program (usually after the completion of three or four semesters). Application materials may be obtained from the microbiology adviser. Admission is competitive and not all students meeting the minimum requirements are guaranteed admission. Students not meeting the minimum requirements may petition for admission into the program and may be accepted depending on space availability. The number allowed in the microbiology program is flexible and is dependent on room in upper-division microbiology courses.  

*Only one course (3 credits) from BIO 307, 341, 464 may be applied to elective requirements.

Microbiology Honors Program

The Microbiology Honors Program is designed to recognize outstanding academic performance and understanding of research in microbiology. Requirements for admission into the honors program are:
1.  Junior Standing
2.  Completion of the application for continuation in the major (completion of one semester math, three semesters of chemistry, and twelve credits in the major including MIC 230)
3.  Provide a transcript demonstrating a 3.25 GPA in biology, chemistry and microbiology courses and a cumulative overall GPA of 3.25
4.    Recommendation by two faculty members from the department.
 

Requirements for earning a degree with honors in microbiology include:
1.  Completion of all major requirements with a cumulative GPA in the major of 3.5 and a cumulative overall GPA of 3.25
2.  Completion of a minimum of two credits of MIC 499
3.  Presentation of results of MIC 499 research at a colloquium of faculty and student or professional meeting. 

Students graduating with honors in microbiology will receive an honors certificate.

The microbiology department incorporates a significant amount of writing through the required courses instead of identifying particular courses as writing emphasis courses. Students who complete the microbiology major will fulfill the university writing emphasis requirement. 

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MIC     100   Cr. 4
Microbes and Society
Microbiology plays an integral role in human affairs and our daily lives. Some microorganisms have caused tremendous suffering throughout history, however many microbes have also provided countless benefits to humans and play vital roles in essential global cycles. This course examines the science of microbiology and the impact of microbiology on human affairs. The principles of microbial diversity, cell structure, growth and reproduction, global processes, disease, and prevention of disease are covered. Each topic provides a basis for discussion of current issues where microorganisms play a role. The laboratory provides an inquiry based approach to examining the diversity of microorganisms and their role in disease, spoilage, genetic engineering, food and antibiotic production, agriculture, and the environment. Not applicable to a major in microbiology or biology. Lect. 3, Lab. 2. 

MIC     102   Cr. 1
Global Bioterrorism
An overview of current potential biological warfare agents. Topic areas will include an historical overview, an explanation of differences in the classes of biological warfare agents, our preparedness to meet this threat, and counter measures to prevent a biological warfare catastrophe. Offered Sem. I. 

MIC     120   Cr. 1
Introduction to the Microbial Sciences
This course introduces students to the nature and scope of biological sciences that involve microorganisms. The importance, applications, and career opportunities in diverse areas of microbiology such as medical, molecular, food and industrial, ecological, and environmental microbiology will be covered. Current topics of microbiology and their impact on society will be examined. The course introduces students to the various options in the microbiology major, and how microbiology relates to other majors. Offered Sem. II. 

MIC     230   Cr. 4
Fundamentals of Microbiology
An introduction to the fundamental principles and applications of microbiology with an emphasis on the role of microorganisms, especially bacteria, in human affairs. Lecture topics include microbial diversity, cell structure and function, growth and metabolism, genetics, genetic engineering, control of microbial growth, host-parasite interactions, immunology, microbial ecology and applied microbiology. Laboratory emphasis is on methods used to cultivate and identify bacteria, genetic techniques, and on standard techniques used in applications of microbiology (clinical, food, industrial, and aquatic). Lect. 2, Lab. 4. Prerequisite: BIO 103 or 105 and CHM 103.  

MIC     260 Cr. 1–3
Topics in Microbiology
Varying topics in microbiology with a specific title assigned to each. Offered by resident faculty or visiting lecturers. Prerequisite: MIC 230. Repeatable for credit—maximum 6. 

MIC     299 Cr. 1–2
Introduction to Microbiology Research
An opportunity to participate in laboratory or field research experience under the direction of a faculty member. Depending on the nature of the research project, study will involve participation in laboratory or theoretical work in addition to selected readings and instruction. A written report to the supervising faculty member is an expected outcome. Admission by instructor’s consent and department approval. Completion of safety training required prior to beginning research. Repeatable for credit — maximum 4. 

MIC     350   Cr. 3
Bacterial Diversity
A survey of the bacteria. Lectures will cover bacterial classification and the structure, physiology, ecology, and applications of various groups of bacteria. Special emphasis will be on the more unique species and those of industrial, ecological and environmental importance. The laboratory will involve enrichment and isolation procedures for selective groups of bacteria. Lect. 2, Lab. 3. Prerequisite: MIC 230. 

MIC     406/506 Cr. 4
Immunology
An introduction to how the immune system protects against infectious disease and how it can contribute to disease. A discussion of fundamental characteristics of innate and acquired immunity is followed by study of antigens, antibodies, the major histocompatibility complex, T and B lymphocyte recognition of antigen and response, cytokines and immune regulation, hypersensitivity reactions including allergies, and the immune system in AIDS. Lect. 2, Lab. 4. Prerequisite: MIC 230; BIO 303 or 313 and CHM 300 or 303 recommended. 

MIC     407/507 Cr. 4
Pathogenic Bacteriology
The study of pathogenic bacteria and their relationships to disease, principles of infection and pathogenesis, and unique properties of pathogens. Laboratory emphasis is on techniques for isolation and identification of pathogenic bacteria. Not applicable to biology major; may be applied to the microbiology, clinical laboratory science major and/or degree as well as an elective for the biology biomedical concentration. Lect. 2, Lab 4. Prerequisite: MIC 230 and 406 (may be taken concurrently). 

MIC     416/516 Cr. 5
Microbial Genetics
An in-depth study of the bacterial and bacteriophage genome with emphasis on the central dogma. Specific topics include DNA replication, transcription and translation, DNA mutation and repair, regulation of gene expression, mechanisms of genetic exchange, plasmid structure and function, transposition, gene mapping and recombinant DNA technology. Laboratory emphasis is on the techniques used in bacterial mutagenesis, genetic exchange, gene mapping, and gene cloning. Lect. 2, Lab. 6. Prerequisite: MIC 406, three semesters of college chemistry including organic, and admitted to microbiology major. Offered Sem. I. 

MIC     420/520 Cr. 3
Introductory Virology
An introduction to viruses and their interactions with host organisms. Special emphasis is placed on the structure and replication cycles of virus families with medical importance. Prerequisite: MIC 230 and 416 or BIO 306 or 435, and three semesters of college chemistry to include organic chemistry. Offered Sem. II. 

MIC     421/521 Cr. 2
Virology Laboratory
A laboratory course designed to introduce fundamental techniques used to study viruses in medicine, biotechnology and research. Emphasis is on procedures used to safely handle viruses, grow them in tissue culture, and the molecular biological, biochemical and immunological techniques used to detect and analyze viruses. Lab. 4. Prerequisite: MIC 230 and 416 or BIO 306 or 435, and three semesters of college chemistry to include organic chemistry. Offered Sem. I. 

MIC     425/525 Cr. 5
Bacterial Physiology
An in-depth study of bacterial structure and function, catabolic and anabolic pathways, regulation, and macromolecular synthesis. Laboratory emphasis is on current techniques used to examine bacterial structure and metabolism such as macromolecular separations and quantification, use of radioisotopic tracers and quantification of enzyme activity. Lect. 2, Lab. 6. Prerequisite: MIC 406, MTH 145 or higher, CHM 300 (or 303). Admitted to microbiology major. Offered Sem. II.

MIC     426/526 Cr. 4
Food Microbiology
A study of environmental factors affecting the growth, activity, and destruction of micro-organisms in food; principles of food spoilage; preservation of foods, including basic methods and their application to foods; food-borne intoxications and infections; indicator organisms; sanitation and microbiological standards in foods. Laboratory instruction includes quality control methods, sampling methods, techniques to identify important microorganisms in foods, and data interpretation and analysis. Lect. 2, Lab. 4. Prerequisite: MIC 230; BIO 412 strongly recommended. Offered Sem. II. 

MIC     427/527 Cr. 3
Industrial and Fermentation Microbiology
A study of microbiology and biochemistry of food fermentations; bioconversions; production of antibiotics, vitamins, amino acids and organic acids. Starter culture systems will be examined.  Prerequisite: MIC 230; MIC 426 strongly recommended. Offered Sem. I. 

MIC     428/528 Cr. 2
Fermentation Microbiology Laboratory
Principles of fermentation science and biotechnology with emphasis on industrial and food fermentation processes. Laboratory emphasis is on the use of various fermentation systems that generate useful products including fermented food and beverages, pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals and other gene products. Lab. 4. Prerequisite:  MIC 426 or 427 and three semesters of college chemistry. Offered Summer Session, alternate years. 

MIC     434/534 Cr. 3
Aquatic Microbial Ecology
An ecological study of bacteria, cyanobacteria and algae of aquatic ecosystems. Topics include microbial strategies for survival under various environmental conditions, the role of micro-organisms in biogeochemical cycling of elements, interactions of microorganisms with other aquatic biota, the role of microorganisms in pollution problems, and applications of microbial ecology to biotechnology. Laboratory emphasis is on experimental design and sampling techniques, quantification of microbial biomass, and measurement of microbial activities in aquatic habitats. One weekend field trip required. Lect. 2, Lab. 3. Prerequisite: MIC 230 and three semesters of college chemistry; BIO 341 strongly recommended. Offered Sem. I, alternate years.  

MIC/BIO  440/540            Cr. 2
Bioinformatics
In this course, students will use computers to study and compare the sequence of nucleotides in DNA or RNA, or the amino acids in proteins. Computers are also used to examine the three dimensional structure of protein.  Being able to manipulate and study this information is the basis for the current revolution in biotechnology. Topics include evolution, taxonomy, genomics and understanding disease. This course provides students an opportunity to explore the relationships between biology, microbiology, chemistry and computer science. (Cross-listed with BIO 440/540; may only earn credit in MIC or BIO.) Prerequisite: BIO 306 or MIC 230 (BIO 435 or MIC 416 recommended). Lab 1. Lect. 2. Offered Sem. II and J-term. 

MIC/BIO  442/542            Cr. 3
Plant Microbe Interactions
This course will explore in depth various ways that plants interact with microbes in the environment, at the macroscopic, cellular, and molecular levels. Case studies will include both parasitic and mutualistic (symbiotic) interactions. Microbes include fungi, bacteria, nematodes, and viruses. Includes plant pathology and studies of the beneficial relationships between plants and microbes. Inquiry-based labs are integrated into the lecture and discussion sessions. Prerequisite: BIO 204, MIC 230, either BIO 306 or MIC 416. Lect. 2, Lab. 2. Offered Sem. II, even years. 

MIC     450 Cr. 1–3
Internship in Microbiology
An academically relevant field experience in government, industry, business or community agencies. Students must have their internships approved and be advised by the department. Students must be on their internship worksite during the semester for which they are registered for academic credit. Maximum of two credits applicable to major. Repeatable for credit — maximum 8. Pass/Fail grading. 

MIC     454/554 Cr. 2
Mechanisms of Microbial Pathogenicity
The study of mechanisms of microbial pathogenicity including both overt microbial factors and complex interactions with the host that produce symptoms of disease. The cellular, biochemical, molecular, and genetic bases for modern understanding of microbial disease will be included. Prerequisite: MIC 406 (or equivalent) and MIC 407 (or equivalent). Offered   Sem. II. 

MIC     455/555            Cr.3
Field and Laboratory Methods in Vector-borne and Zoonotic Disease Research
This course will explore methods used in vector-borne and zoonotic disease research. Students will learn current field and laboratory techniques used to understand the epidemiology, spread, and transmission of vector-borne, infectious diseases (VBID’s) and other zoonotic diseases. Emphasis will be placed on sample collection in the field from birds, mammals, and vectors as well as processing and testing samples from the causative agents of West Nile encephalitis, Eastern equine encephalitis, Lyme disease, Human granulocytic ehrlichiosis (HGE), and others. Attention will focus on experimental design and computer methods used in study design and application. Lect/Lab full-time three weeks. Prerequisite: MIC 230 or equivalent. Course offered off campus. Offered summer session. 

MIC     460/560 Cr. 1-3
Symposium in Microbiology
Varying topics in microbiology with a specific title assigned to each. Offered by resident faculty or visiting lecturers. Prerequisite: MIC 230. Repeatable for credit—maximum 6. 

MIC     461   Cr. 1
Capstone in Microbiology
A seminar-style course designed for students to review and discuss basic concepts necessary for a career in microbiology and to assess their major. This course will cover basic concepts of quantitative skills, computer literacy, and current topics microbiology. Students are expected to actively participate in an assessment of their major, and participate in discussions on major issues and developments in the microbiological sciences. Students will present a seminar on a contemporary  microbiological topic incorporating primary literature. Prerequisite: senior standing and must have completed all core microbiology classes by the end of the semester for which one is enrolling. 

MIC     479 Cr. 1–2
Microbiology Laboratory Assistant
An opportunity to assist in the preparation and instruction of a microbiology laboratory. Students will be expected to assist in preparation of course materials, demonstrate proper techniques, and evaluate student performance. Admission by instructor’s consent. Completion of safety training required. Lect. 2, Lab. 6. Repeatable for credit — maximum 4. Pass/Fail grading. 

MIC     489 Cr. 1–2
Independent Study in Microbiology
A directed reading/project course covering a standard body of knowledge within the discipline but outside that offered through regularly scheduled courses. Under the direction of the supervising faculty member, study may involve a review of current literature. A written report or project is an expected outcome. Admission by instructor’s and department approval. Completion of safety training required prior to beginning a laboratory or field-based project. Repeatable for credit — maximum 4. 

MIC     499 Cr. 1–3
Independent Research in Microbiology
An opportunity to pursue individual research topics under the direction of a faculty member. Depending on the nature of the research project, study is expected to involve substantial laboratory or theoretical work in addition to literature review and instruction. Students are expected to develop research skills related to microbiology. In addition to a written report to the supervising faculty member, expected outcomes may include: laboratory notebooks, experimental devices, software, papers and presentations to departments and regional meetings. Admission by instructor’s consent and department approval. Completion of safety training required prior to beginning research. Repeatable for credit — maximum 10. (2 apply to major)

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