Course description, General Microbiology (Bio 216):
Prerequisites: BIO 104 and CHE 111, or permission of instructor
General microbiology is a course intended for the biology or science major interested in learning about the microbial world. In this introductory course students will study the fundamental structural and metabolic characteristics of microorganisms (mainly prokaryotes) and will learn basic techniques for enrichment, selection, isolation, enumeration and identification. In the course we will address not only the ability of microorganisms to cause disease, but also their role in research, their importance in functional ecosystems and their economic significance. In this course Bacteria are emphasized.

Course description, Microbiology (Bio 215):
Prerequisites: CHE 121 and BIO 106 or permission of instructor
This course is intended for non-Biology majors, especially nursing students for whom it is a requirement. In this course we will survey important microorganisms found in our environment, with special attention given to those that parasitize humans and animals. Lectures include structure, metabolic activities, control and host response to infection. Laboratory provides supporting study of all groups, with emphasis on the culture, identification and metabolic activities of bacteria. In this course, health-related topics are emphasized.

Course description, The Microbial World (Bio 108):
Prerequisites: none
This is an introductory biology course for non-majors, addressing fundamental biological principles using microorganisms as a focus for thought and discussion. In the laboratory, students will carry out inquiry-based investigations that require group cooperation and discussion. Topics include the role of microbes in maintaining the biosphere, microbes and human health, and microorganisms in research and applied technologies.

Course description, Environmental Microbiology (Bio 4_ _ ):
Prerequisites: BIO 215 or BIO 2XX or BIO 312 or permission of instructor
This is an advanced microbiology course for students who have already been introduced to basic microbiological concepts and techniques. This course covers the study of microorganisms in natural environments, including specialized techniques for sampling, culture, isolation and identification. We will learn about the ecology and diversity of microbial communities in soil, water, and air as well as in unusual environments such as deep-sea hydrothermal vents. Topics include wastewater treatment, bioremediation, biofilm engineering, and other applications related to public health, agriculture, food science, and industry. Students will read primary literature and are expected to participate in at least one field trip.

Course description, Introduction to Medical Technology (MET 001):
This is a course for students who are interested in considering medical technology as a career option. No credit is given for the course, but good attendance is a must. For students who plan to major in Medical Technology the course is required. At weekly meetings, students are introduced to the career, how to plan for this and other health-related laboratory careers, and given individual advice and consultation. There are over 8 field trips off-campus to see first-hand what medical technologists do (most at Danbury Hospital, a short walk/drive from WCSU).

Course description, Microbial Ecology (Bio 4__ )
PREREQUISITES:  BIO215 or BIO216 or equivalent; or permission of instructor.
In this course we will study the relationships between microorganisms and their environment, and their interactions with each other and with other species. We will examine microbial species diversity and metabolic versatility with an evolutionary perspective. The approach will include experimental design and data analysis, and ecosystem modeling as applied to microbial ecology.

Course description, Environment and Health (Bio298H)
PREREQUISITES: Admission to Honors Program or permission of instructor
In this course, we will learn about those risks to human health that come from outside the body, usually related to detrimental human impact on the natural environment. In order to understand the complexity of this issue, we will learn some basics of biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, and human physiology, including the processes of reproduction and embryonic development. This early developmental phase represents a critical stage of life when external exposure to hazardous compounds and situations can cause changes that manifest in the adult organism and perhaps persist into future generations of offspring. Further, the course will include discussion of methods used to quantify risk and measure the toxicity of compounds in the body and the environment. In our seminar discussions and class activities, we will use text information as well as current literature to apply the scientific mode of analysis to specific case studies and broad issues of public policy, risk communication, and the questions of personal vs. communal responsibility.  A focal point of the course will be the use of cases and examples that relate directly to local and regional environmental health issues.

Course description, Microbes, Disease, and Society (Bio298H)
PREREQUISITES: Admission to Honors Program or permission of instructor
In this course students will learn about the microbiology of human disease through lecture, discussion, labs and independent projects. Topics will include historical plagues, more recent outbreaks, and  ongoing endemic global diseases and potential bioterror agents. Students will learn how scientists identify, study and control infectious agents and the complex ecological, social, political, and economic issues that must also be considered.