Microbiology and Immunology

The Department of Microbiology and Immunology offers instruction in microbiology and immunology to undergraduate students in nursing, pharmacy, and medical technology, as well as to dental and medical students.

In addition, there is an extensive program for the training of graduate students in microbiology and immunology, leading to the MA and PhD degrees. Several medical students have elected to take the combined MD-PhD program, enrolling for the PhD degree in the department’s program. A number of individuals with doctoral degrees come to the department each year from all over the world for postdoctoral training in microbiology.

The department conducts research in all major areas. Research laboratories are designed and equipped for studies in microbial pathogenesis, molecular biology, parasitology, virology, and immunology, and house faculty members, postdoctoral fellows, graduate students, and staff involved in these investigations.

The department offers an extensive program of formal and informal courses through the Division of Graduate and Professional Education. Medical students are welcome in these courses. Consult the Graduate School Bulletin for a complete listing and description of graduate courses. A description of elective courses in microbiology for medical students appears below.

Course Descriptions

  • MIC 950 Microbiology Research, 4 credits

    This course is intended to provide the student with the opportunity to gain insight and experience in microbiologic and immunologic research methods and techniques in established laboratories with active research programs. Specific activities will be arranged by mutual consent of the student and investigator.

    Experiences in a wide range of microbiologic and immunologic research techniques and methods will be available.

    Following the completion of the course, students should be able to employ specific laboratory procedures, interpret results and integrate the results within the context of the overall objectives and significance of the project.

    Prerequisite: Senior medical student or permission of OME and instructor. 

    Fall and spring semesters. Staff. 

    Number of students: Unlimited.