Topics of study include classification, nomenclature, taxonomic relationships and identification of microorganisms. The physiology of microbes, pathogenic organisms and organisms of economic importance are considered. Laboratory exercises stress sterile technique, staining methods, culture of microbes, biochemical tests used in identification of microorganisms, as well as a culminating project involving the identification of an unknown organism. [R-1}Prerequisite: BIO 101, BIO 111, or permission of the MLT department chairNote: This is a required course for the MLT program; this course may be used in place of MLT 106 for nursing/pre-nursing students who intend to transfer to a Bachelor's program after graduation