This course will cover the major groups of microbes, with a focus on microbes involved in human health and disease. Bacteria, fungi, viruses, protozoa, helminths and arthropods will be discussed with emphasis on microbial metabolism, growth, structure and function; roles in medicine and industry; microbial interactions; microbial control measures; microbial diseases; and immunological responses to infection. Laboratories will stress aseptic techniques for cultivation, staining, and characterization of bacteria and experimental concepts of the discipline.