Introduction to Microbiology
1.1. Definition of microbiology
1.2. The Important milestone/history of microbiology in environmental health
1.3. The benefits and harmful effects of microbiology

Basic characteristics of bacteria
2.1. Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
2.2. Classification of microorganisms
2.3. Microbial growth and culturing of bacteria
2.4. Microscopic observation of bacteria


Microbial reservoir and transmission
3.1. Important of microbiology in public health
3.2. Diseases in populations
3.3. Reservoirs of infection
3.4. Portals of entry
3.5. Portals of exit
3.6. Modes of disease transmission
3.7. Host microbe relationships and disease process


Virology
4.1. Basic composition and structure
4.2. Viral replication
4.3. Viral infections
4.4. Virus like agents-satellites, viroids and prions
4.5. Public health importance of viruses


Mycology
5.1. Basic characteristics of pathogenic fungi
5.2. Classification of fungal infections
5.3. Public health importance of mycotoxins


Chlamydiae, rickettsiae and spirochete
6.1. Basic characteristics of chlamydiae, rickettsiae and spirochete
6.2. Public health importance of chlamydiae, rickettsiae and spirochete


Protozoa
7.1. Basic characteristics of protozoa
7.2. Public health importance of protozoa


Helminths
8.1. Basic characteristics of helminthes
8.2. Public health importance of helminths


Specimen collection
9.1. Objectives of specimen collection
9.2. Basic steps in specimen collection
9.3. Consequences of faulty collection
9.4. Examples of specimen for identification of microbial


Destruction and control of microorganisms
10.1. Types of microbial destruction and control
10.2. Factors influencing the rate of microbial death
10.3. Physical methods of microbial control/Physical antimicrobial agents
10.4. Chemical methods of microbial control/Chemical antimicrobial agents
10.5. Examples of microbial destruction and control-disinfection, sterilization, etc.

Q1 : Do I need to have basic microbiology knowledge to join this course?
A1 : Not necessary, but, having knowledge of biology will be beneficial.

Q2 : How long should I spend to complete this course?
A2 : The MOOC is designed to be completed within 14 weeks. However, it is self-paced.

Q3 : How can I reach the facilitators?
A3 : You may relay your questions to us through the comment section under each topic.

Q4 : Do I need basic technology skills before enrolling to this course?
A4 : No, you don't have to. All you need is the internet!