MSHS in Clinical Microbiology: Curriculum

Basic concepts and methods of biostatistics applied to translational research. Topics include distributions, populations and sample selection, variables, interaction and confounding, hypothesis formulation, correlation, t-tests, ANOVA, regression, and chi.

This course covers the pathogenic characteristics, isolation techniques, specimen collection and handling, laboratory identification, and treatment of medically significant bacteria and viruses with an emphasis on current diagnostic techniques used in clinical practice.

This course presents the etiology of infectious diseases in different body sites using a case-study‐based approach It emphasizes the epidemiology, pathogenic mechanisms, and laboratory identification of suspected etiologic agents. Commonly encountered clinical species will be discussed using case studies that include clinical history, signs and symptoms, and laboratory test results of diseases produced by the etiologic agents.

This course is designed to provide the student with a systematic approach to the biology and epidemiology of human parasitic, fungal and viral diseases. The course will cover the symptomology, pathology, diagnostic procedures and treatment of the various parasites, fungi and viruses that infect humans. Other topics including disease causation and specimen collection/handling will be discussed.

This course covers the principles of the immune system and the clinical applications of immunology related to the diagnosis of human diseases. The first half of the course will focus on the components of the immune system and the various functions of each.

The advances in scientific technology have expanded the interest and applicability of nucleic acid based analysis within clinical diagnostic laboratories and routine screening procedures. This course provides an overview of molecular biology and genetic concepts as well as the molecular techniques used to diagnose human diseases. The course will emphasize the technology, theory, and methodology of specific molecular protocols that can be utilized within a clinical and research laboratory setting to aid in disease diagnosis, including those of genetic, oncogenic, and infectious origin.

An introduction to critical concepts of lab management, including leadership theory, management principles, human resource management, financial management, quality management, and laboratory operations.

A comprehensive overview of the molecular basis of diseases caused by microbial pathogens with a focus on model microbial systems to illustrate mechanisms of the human infectious disease process.

A comprehensive overview of current molecular technologies and how they are used in modern medicine.

Traditional and modern topics in research ethics and scientific integrity Students will learn to conduct unbiased peer-review, conduct research, and report on an independent case examinations, research misconduct or other ethical issues, and participate in oral scientific and ethical discussions.

During this practicum course, the student will actively engage in applying the medical knowledge and clinical skills gained in the didactic Advanced Clinical Bacteriology I, Advanced Clinical Bacteriology II, and Advanced Parasitology, Mycology and Virology courses.

HSCI or MLS elective selected in consultation with the advisor.