Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Fall 2026 - HSCI 338 D100

Virology (3)

Class Number: 2333

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    Sep 9 – Dec 6, 2026: Fri, 9:30 a.m.–12:20 p.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    MBB 222 with a minimum grade of C- or permission of the instructor.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

Virology in the context of viral diseases in humans and animals. Viruses, their structures, transmission and replication in human and animal hosts, interactions with hosts and viral diseases.

COURSE DETAILS:

This course is an introductory course for virology focused on animal viruses. It covers basic concepts and topics within animal virology in the context of viral diseases in human and animals. Specifically, animal virus structure, replication, virus-host interaction and viral diseases will be discussed. Prior knowledge in microbiology, molecular biology, biochemistry and immunology will help. This course will be an absolute prerequisite for Virology Laboratory HSCI 441 scheduled in Spring 2025.

COURSE-LEVEL EDUCATIONAL GOALS:

1. Define and discuss technical terms used in animal virology and viral infectious diseases.
2. Compare how viruses are maintained within their hosts by evaluating their transmission, replication, infection cycle and host interaction.
3. Explain the advantages and disadvantages of several experimental approaches used in modern and classical virology.
4. Review an expert seminar, discuss current issues in virology, and connect the science to real-world events and controversies.
5. Develop approaches to critically read the textbook and reflect on the advantages of process-oriented learning.

Grading

  • Henry Stuart Talk Summary and Presentation 20%
  • Midterm Quizzes (x3, 25 % each, best of 2) 50%
  • Final Exam 30%

NOTES:

There will be one 3-hour class each week that will include lectures, discussion and interactive exercises. You will gain the most by being an active participant in your own learning. 

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

J. Dimmock, A.J. Easton, K.N. Leppard. Introduction to Modern Virology. 7th Edition. 2016. Wiley-Blackwell Publishing.
ISBN: 978-1-119-97810-7

Registrar Notes:

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY: YOUR WORK, YOUR SUCCESS

At SFU, you are expected to act honestly and responsibly in all your academic work. Cheating, plagiarism, or any other form of academic dishonesty harms your own learning, undermines the efforts of your classmates who pursue their studies honestly, and goes against the core values of the university.

To learn more about the academic disciplinary process and relevant academic supports, visit: 


RELIGIOUS ACCOMMODATION

Students with a faith background who may need accommodations during the term are encouraged to assess their needs as soon as possible and review the Multifaith religious accommodations website. The page outlines ways they begin working toward an accommodation and ensure solutions can be reached in a timely fashion.