Level: 3
Unit type: Internal
Guided learning hours: 60
Unit in brief
Learners will cover the key microbiological concepts relevant to the field of health science and their role in the manufacture of pharmaceutical products and in medical diagnostics.
Unit introduction
Recent developments in transport have made travel much easier; you can be in a country of very different health standards to your own in a matter of hours. Despite taking precautions, you can be exposed to micro-organisms to which you have no immunity. You will look at the implications of this for the spread of diseases and their control.
In this unit, you will research how diseases are transmitted and what methods can be used to either contain or prevent outbreaks of some diseases. The outbreak of epidemics and the rise of new micro-organisms associated with them is a challenge to all who work in the health science field. You will look at research into producing new antibiotics and antiseptics, and the difficulties of making sure they help rather than harm due to their misuse. Finally, you will research the health benefits of micro-organisms in terms of their uses to produce food, pharmaceuticals and also in genetic engineering.
A comprehensive understanding of all aspects of microbiology can underpin many roles in the health sector, including microbiological scientists, laboratory clinicians and expert roles for advising other medical staff in universities and hospitals.
Learning aims
In this unit you will:
A. Understand the concepts of microbiology relevant to health science
B. Examine the role of micro-organisms in human health and disease
C. Investigate the impact of diseases and their treatment in a global context
D. Investigate the health benefits of micro-organisms.
