Simon Fraser University
Engaging the World

Course Outlines

Summer 2026 - BISC 303 D100

Microbiology (4)

Class Number: 1212

Delivery Method: In Person

Overview

  • Course Times + Location:

    May 11 – Aug 10, 2026: Tue, Thu, 9:30–10:20 a.m.
    Burnaby

  • Prerequisites:

    BISC 102, MBB 222, and MBB 231, all with a minimum grade of C-.

Description

CALENDAR DESCRIPTION:

A broad introduction to micro-organisms (bacteria, viruses and archaea) with an emphasis on their molecular biology, metabolism, physiology, and interactions with their hosts and environment. Labs introduce students to modern microbial techniques.

COURSE DETAILS:

COURSE DETAILS:

Students will be introduced to the unique biology of microorganisms as well as their importance in the environment and in medicine. Lecture topics complement the lab exercises (see below) and will include: Diversity- Structure, function, and taxonomy; Metabolism -  growth and metabolic diversity; bacterial genetics, viruses, symbiosis, pathogenesis.

Laboratory Component: The laboratory exercises familiarize students with basic techniques in microbiology. Labs will commence during the first week of classes.  

Grading

  • • Lab Assignments and final Lab Exam 50%
  • • Midterm Exam 15%
  • • Final Exam 35%

REQUIREMENTS:

Laboratory Component: The laboratory exercises familiarize students with basic techniques in microbiology. Labs will commence during the first week of classes. Students are required to participate in approximately one hour of open lab time per week (on Wednesdays and/or Fridays) in addition to scheduled lab times.

Materials

REQUIRED READING:

Prescott's Microbiology. 12th edition (2023) by Willey, Sherwood and Wolverton, McGraw Hill Higher Education 

Connect (w/ Smartbook ebook) and the hard copy print edition are both acceptable.
ISBN: 9781264088393

REQUIRED READING NOTES:

Your personalized Course Material list, including digital and physical textbooks, are available through the SFU Bookstore website by simply entering your Computing ID at: shop.sfu.ca/course-materials/my-personalized-course-materials.

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.