Prokaryotic Cell Biology, 7.5 credits

Learning outcomes

Knowledge and comprehension
After having completed the course the student shall have basic knowledge of

• prokaryotic cell structures, function and diversity
• prokeryotic genetics
• prokaryotic cell metabolism and growth
• principles of infectious disease and epidemiology, and
• basic methods used in microbiology.

Proficiency and ability
After having completed the course the student shall be able to

• demonstrate proficiency in working with microorganisms, and
• evaluate and document laboratory results in writing.

Values and attitude
After having completed the course the student has

• a basic understanding of biology as an experimental science.

Content

The course deals with the basics of prokaryotic structure, function, metabolism and physiology. Included is an overview of the Bacteria and Archaea diversity and nomenclature. An introdution prokaryotic genetics and processes such as prokaryotic replication, transcription and translation. General medical microbiology and epidemiology will be discussed. The course will also include the basics of safe laboratory work with bacteria.

Examinations and grades

Theory, 5 credits (Code: A001)
Grades used are Fail (F), Sufficient (E), Satisfactory (D), Good (C), Very Good (B) or Excellent (A).

Laboratory Experiments and Seminars, 2.5 credits (Code: A002)
Grades used are Fail (U) or Pass (G).

According to the Higher Education Ordinance, Chapter 6, Section 18, a grade is to be awarded on the completion of a course, unless otherwise prescribed by the university. The university may determine which grading system is to be used. The grade must be determined by a teacher specifically nominated by the university (the examiner).

In accordance with university regulations on grading systems for first and second-cycle courses and study programmes (Vice-Chancellor’s decision ORU 2018/00929), one of the following grades is to be used: fail (U), pass (G) or pass with distinction (VG). For courses included in an international master’s programme (60 or 120 credits) or offered to the university’s incoming exchange students, the A to F grading scale is to be used. The vice-chancellor, or a person appointed by them, may decide on exceptions from this provision for a specific course, if there are special grounds for doing so.

The grades used on this course are Fail (F), Sufficient (E), Satisfactory (D), Good (C), Very Good (B) or Excellent (A).

Comments on grades

To obtain a pass grade for the course as a whole, a minimum of grade E is required for all theoretical modules on the course as well as Pass (G) on the project work and all obligatory seminars. The final course grade is based on the result of the theoretical part

Modes of assessment

• Theory (code A001): Written exam
• Laboratory Experiments and Seminars (code A002): Written assignment, oral examination and practical examination

If a student is absent from a mandatory course component, the examiner determines if the student will be able to make up for the component during another scheduled class of the same kind. Otherwise, the student is referred to the next time the course is offered. As an exception the examiner may decide on substitute assignments. These shall then be carried out before or shortly after the end of the course.

For students with a documented disability, the university may approve applications for adapted or other modes of assessment.

For further information, see the university's local examination regulations.

Specific entry requirements

General entry requirements + Biology 2, Physics 1a or 1b1+1b2, Chemistry 2 and Mathematics 3b or Mathematics 3c or Mathematics C.

For further information, see the university's admission regulations.

Other provisions

Language of instruction: Swedish and English. The course is given in English if there are exchange students registered.

Students who have been admitted to and registered on a course have the right to receive tuition and/or supervision for the duration of the time period specified for the particular course to which they were accepted (see, the university's admission regulations (in Swedish)). After that, the right to receive tuition and/or supervision expires.

Reading list and other learning resources

Required Reading

Tortora, Gerard J., Funke, Berdell R. & Case, Christine L. (Latest Edition)
Microbiology: An Introduction
San Francisco: Benjamin Cummings, 960 pages