Microbiology Minor

Program Coordinator/Contact

Heike Bücking, Department Head
Department of Biology and Microbiology
Alfred Dairy Science Hall 228
605-688-6141

Program Information

The Microbiology minor is open to all majors and is especially appropriate for students majoring in the biological or agricultural sciences, physical sciences or science education. The minor provides students with a broad background in all facets of microbiology, preparing them to pursue careers in diagnostic and research laboratories, public health, agriculture, food industry, pharmaceutical companies, academia, governmental agencies, and the private sector. The goal is to provide a sound but varied educational experience.

Student Learning Outcomes

Upon completion of the Microbiology minor, students will:

• apply the process of science.
• demonstrate understanding of and application of quantitative reasoning; information flow, exchange, and storage in microorganisms; relationship between science and society.
• demonstrate knowledge on how microorganisms interact with and impact their environment and the interaction between microorganisms and humans, animals and plants.
• describe and use new and existing methods and technologies in and out of the laboratory setting.

Academic Requirements

A minimum GPA of 2.0 must be maintained in the major courses.

Course Delivery Format

Program coursework is on-campus, in classrooms and laboratories, as well as field-based settings. Additional coursework is available at off-campus attendance centers.  Limited coursework is available online.