This module aims to develop an advanced understanding and appreciation of how microbial pathogens (viruses and prokaryotic and eukaryotic microbes) cause human disease, such as evasion strategies, and how the body defends itself from infection. Furthermore, this module will develop an understanding of how this information and related research can lead to potential drug targets and therapeutics. This will involve descriptions of current anti-microbial and anti-viral drugs and the appraisal of scientific literature, published experimental data, and new processes, to draw on recent advances in microbiology and immunology. This will also include the identification of scientific approaches used within this field.
Blended distance learning:
Contact Hours: 80 hours
Private Study Time: 70 hours
Total Learning Time: 150 hours
Written assignment (2,000 words) – 40%
3 hour Examination – 60%
All assessments must be passed in order to pass the module.
Reassessment: Like-for-like
See the library reading list for this module (Medway)
The intended subject specific learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Discuss immune components and complex immune mechanisms involved in defending the body from infection.
Describe clinical conditions associated with the immune system and evaluate scientific approaches and research that underpin the development of potential drug targets and therapeutics, in the field of immunology and microbiology.
Demonstrate an understanding of the classification of bacteria and understand how this impacts upon the application and development of antibiotics.
Understand the site of action, mechanism of action, and clinical application of the various classes of anti-microbial and anti-viral drugs.
Comprehensively understand the concepts that underpin aspects of how microorganisms and complex microbial systems cause infection and how this can lead to potential drug targets.
The intended generic learning outcomes.
On successfully completing the module students will be able to:
Demonstrate an ability to analyse, evaluate and correctly interpret data.
Demonstrate an ability to work, present and communicate effectively and confidently with others.
Obtain and use information from a variety of sources as part of self-directed learning.
Manage time and use organisation skills within the context of self-directed learning.
Identify and apply scientific approaches appropriate to discipline.
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