Microbiology (MIC)
College of Science and Health
Department Chair:
S.N. Rajagopal
4036 Cowley Hall, 608.785.6976
e-mail:
rajagopa.s@uwlax.edu
Professors: Hoffman, Schwan,
Winfrey;
Associate Professors: Bratina,
Rajagopal, Rott, Taylor, B;
Clinical Associate Professor:
Sewell;
Senior Lecturer: Anglehart;
Lecturer: Lazzari;
Associate Lecturer:
Barbknecht
Center of Excellence in Microbiology
The University of Wisconsin System and the
Board of Regents have identified the microbiology program at
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).
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, business, 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 USA
Microbiology Major
(All colleges, excluding Teacher Certification
programs) — 40 microbiology/biology credits – (67 total credits
including requirements outside BIO/MIC)
A. Biology core (7-8 credits): BIO 105 and a
second biology course from BIO 203, 204, 210, 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 six credits from List I, a maximum of two
credits from List III. One course from List II strongly
recommended):
List I: MIC 380, 407,
420, 421, 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: (minimum 27 credits): One course in math (MTH 145 or above), one course in physics (PHY 125 or 104 or 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). The physics series PHY 103/104 or PHY 203/204 may be required for students pursuing graduate or professional degrees.
Microbiology Major—Biomedical Concentration
(All colleges, excluding Teacher Certification
programs) — 40 microbiology/biology credits – (67 total credits
including requirements outside BIO/MIC)
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 (five
additional credits; at least three credits from List I, a
maximum of two credits from List III):
List I: MIC 350, 380,
420, 421, 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 (minimum 27
credits): One course in math (MTH 145 or above), one course in
physics (PHY 125 or 104 or 204), and a minimum of 19 credits of
chemistry including: CHM 103, 104, 300, (or 303, 304, and 305),
325 (or 417 and 418). The physics series PHY 103/104 or PHY
203/204 may be required for students pursuing graduate or
professional degrees.
Microbiology Major – Business Concentration
(All colleges, excluding Teacher Certification
programs) — 59 credits – (86 total credits including
requirements outside of BIO/MIC)
A. Biology core (7-8 credits): BIO 105, and a
second biology course from BIO 203, 204, 210, 306, 312, 315
B. Microbiology core (22 credits): MIC 230,
350, 406, 416, 425, 461
C. Business core (24 credits): ECO 110, 120;
ACC 221, 222; FIN 355; MKT 309; BUS 205; MGT 308
D. Microbiology/biology electives (5-6
credits; at least three credits from List I, a maximum of two
credits from List III. One course from List II strongly
recommended):
List I: MIC 380, 407,
420, 421, 427, 428, 434, 440, 454, 460
List II: MIC 442, BIO 406,
412, 413, 449, 463
List III: MIC 479, 489, 499 (Only one credit
of MIC 479 applies to List III)
E. Additional requirements (minimum 27
credits): One course in math (MTH 145 or above), one course in
physics (PHY 125 or 104 or 204), and a minimum of 19 credits of
chemistry including: CHM 103, 104, 300 (or 303, 304, 305), 325
(or 417 and 418). The physics series PHY 103/104 or PHY 203/204
may be required for students pursuing graduate or professional
degrees.
Microbiology Major—Environmental Science
Concentration
(All colleges, excluding Teacher Certification
programs) — 40 microbiology/biology credits – (73 total credits
including requirements outside of BIO/MIC)
A. Biology core (7-8 credits): BIO 105 and a
second biology course from BIO 203, 204, 210
B. Microbiology core (21 credits): MIC 230,
350, 416, 425, 434, 461
C. Microbiology/biology electives (11-12
credits; at least five credits from List I, at least three
credits from List II, and a maximum of two credits from List
III):
List I: MIC 406, 407,
420, 421, 427, 428, 440; BIO 307 or 341 or 464*, 441, 447, 448,
449
List II: MIC 442, 455; BIO
406, 412, 463
List III: MIC 479, 489, 499 (only one credit
of MIC 479 applies to list III)
D. Additional requirements: (minimum 33
credits) MTH 145 and 175 or 207; one course in physics (PHY 125
or 104 or 204), and a minimum of 24 credits of chemistry
including: CHM 103, 104, 300 (or 303, 304, 305), 301, 325 (or
417 and 418). The physics series PHY 103/104 or PHY 203/204 may
be required for students pursuing graduate or professional
degrees.
*Only one course (3 credits) from BIO 307,
341, 464 may be applied to elective requirements.
Microbiology Minor
(All colleges, excluding Teacher Certification
programs) — 22 Credits – (35-37 total credits including
prerequisites) MIC 230, 350 or 407, 416 or 425. Remaining
credits from: MIC 350, 380, 406, 407, 416, 420, 421, 425, 427,
428, 434, 442, 454, 460; BIO 406, 412, 413, 449, 463. Additional
13-15 credits required to meet course prerequisites include CHM
103, 104, 300 or 303.
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:
-
Junior Standing
-
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)
-
Provide a transcript demonstrating a 3.25 GPA in biology, chemistry and microbiology courses and a cumulative overall GPA of 3.25
-
Recommendation by two faculty members from the department.
Requirements for earning a degree with honors
in microbiology include:
-
Completion of all major requirements with a cumulative GPA in the major of 3.5 and a cumulative overall GPA of 3.25
-
Completion of a minimum of two credits of MIC 499
-
Presentation of results of MIC 499 research at a colloquium of faculty and students or at a 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
+ above a course number indicates a
General Education
course.
+
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. Offered
Fall, Spring.
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 occasionally.
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 occasionally.
+
MIC 130
Cr. 3
Global Impact of Infectious Disease
A multifaceted examination of issues related
to infectious disease throughout the world. The course will
begin with historical examples of how infectious disease has
impacted society, from plagues of centuries past to recent
emerging diseases. After defining the types of pathogens and
methods for their control, the interplay between infectious
disease and global economics, health and politics will be
evaluated. Additionally, the impact of public perceptions and
misconceptions on the spread of infectious disease will be
analyzed. Finally, the role of current human activities in
shaping disease patterns of the future will be explored. Offered
Fall, Spring.
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. Prerequisites: BIO 103 or 105; CHM 103. Offered Fall,
Spring, Summer.
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 six. Offered occasionally.
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 four. Offered Fall,
Winter, Spring, Summer.
MIC 350
Cr. 3
Bacterial Diversity
A course is 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. Offered Spring, Fall, odd-numbered years.
MIC 380
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. Offered Spring.
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. Offered Fall, Spring.
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. Offered
Fall, Spring.
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. Prerequisites: MIC 230; CHM 300 (or
303). Offered Fall.
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. Prerequisites: MIC 230 and 416 or BIO 306 or
435; three semesters of college chemistry to include organic
chemistry. Offered Spring.
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. Prerequisites: MIC
230 and 416 or BIO 306 or 435; three semesters of college
chemistry to include organic chemistry. Offered Fall.
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. Prerequisites: MIC 230; MTH 145 or higher; CHM
300 (or 303). Offered Spring.
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. Prerequisites: MIC 230;
CHM 104. Offered Fall, odd-numbered years.
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, chemicals and
other gene products. Lab. 4. Prerequisites: MIC 230; CHM 104.
Offered Summer odd-numbered 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. Prerequisites: MIC 230; three
semesters of college chemistry; BIO 341 strongly recommended.
Offered Fall, even-numbered 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.
Lect. 1, Lab. 2. (Cross-listed with BIO; may only earn credit in
MIC or BIO.) Prerequisite: BIO 306 or MIC 416. Offered Spring,
Winter.
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. Lect.
2, Lab. 2. Prerequisites: BIO 204; MIC 230; either BIO 306 or
MIC 416. (Cross-listed with BIO; may only earn credit in MIC or
BIO.) Offered Spring, even-numbered 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 eight. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall, Winter,
Spring, Summer.
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.
Prerequisites: MIC 406 (or equivalent) and MIC 407 (or
equivalent). Offered Spring, odd-numbered years.
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
occasionally.
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 six. Offered occasionally.
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. Prerequisites: senior standing; must have completed
all core microbiology classes by the end of the semester for
which one is enrolling. Offered Fall, Spring.
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.
Prerequisite: consent of instructor. Completion of safety
training required. Lect. 2, Lab. 6. Repeatable for credit —
maximum four. Pass/Fail grading. Offered Fall, Spring, Summer.
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. Prerequisite: consent of instructor and
department. Completion of safety training required prior to
beginning a laboratory or field-based project. Repeatable for
credit — maximum four. Offered Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer.
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. Prerequisite: consent of instructor and
department l. Completion of safety training required prior to
beginning research. Repeatable for credit — maximum 10. (maximum
two credits applicable to major) Offered Fall, Winter, Spring,
Summer.