Microbiology for Health Training Course

Microbiology underpins much of modern health and social care practice. From understanding how infections spread to preventing outbreaks and supporting safe care environments, knowledge of microorganisms is essential for anyone working in care settings.

This free Microbiology for Health course provides an introduction to microbiology, tailored specifically to health and social care roles. You’ll explore different types of microorganisms, how infections develop, the use of antimicrobials, and the critical importance of infection prevention and control in protecting individuals, staff, and communities.

Why Take This eLearning Course?

Infections remain a major challenge in health and social care. A strong understanding of microbiology helps professionals reduce risk, respond appropriately to illness, and contribute to safer care environments.

This course will help you to:

• Understand the science behind infection: Learn how bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites affect human health.
• Recognise infection risks: Understand how infections develop, spread, and cause disease.
• Support safe practice: Apply infection prevention and control principles confidently in care settings.
• Understand antimicrobial use: Learn how antimicrobials work and why resistance is a growing global concern.
• Strengthen public health awareness: Explore how microbiology supports disease surveillance, vaccination, and outbreak control.
• Apply learning to practice: Focus on practical relevance rather than laboratory theory alone.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Explain what microbiology is and its role in health and social care.
• Identify different types of microorganisms and their characteristics.
• Describe how microorganisms contribute to health and disease.
• Understand microbial structure, classification, and pathogenicity.
• Explain how infections develop and spread.
• Recognise common infectious diseases caused by microorganisms.
• Understand diagnostic methods used to identify infections.
• Describe how antimicrobials work and the causes of antimicrobial resistance.
• Apply infection prevention and control principles in care settings.
• Explain the role of microbiology in public health, vaccination, and disease surveillance.

Microbiology in Health and Social Care Course Outline

Module 1: Basics of Microbiology
Learners will be introduced to microbiology and its importance in health and social care. This module explains what microorganisms are and explores the main types, including bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites. Learners will develop an understanding of how microorganisms can be part of normal human health as well as how they can cause disease.

Module 2: Microbial Structure and Classification
This module focuses on the structure and classification of microorganisms. Learners will explore the basic structures of bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites and how these differences influence their behaviour and treatment. The module also explains microbial classification and taxonomy, including the difference between pathogenic and non-pathogenic microorganisms.

Module 3: Infection and Disease
Learners will explore what infection is and the different types of infection seen in health and social care settings. This module explains common diseases caused by microorganisms and how infections develop and spread. Learners will gain an understanding of transmission routes and factors that increase the risk of infection. A knowledge check supports learning.

Module 4: Diagnostic Microbiology
This module introduces learners to diagnostic microbiology and how microorganisms are identified. Learners will explore laboratory methods used to detect infections, including traditional culture techniques and modern molecular diagnostics. The module also explains antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) and its role in guiding effective treatment.

Module 5: Antimicrobials and Resistance
Learners will examine antimicrobials and how they are used to treat infections. This module explains different types of antimicrobials, including antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals, and how they work. Learners will also explore antimicrobial resistance (AMR), including its causes, consequences, and why it is a major public health concern.

Module 6: Infection Control and Prevention
This module focuses on preventing the spread of infection in health and social care settings. Learners will explore the core principles of infection prevention and control, strategies to reduce healthcare-associated infections, and the management of infectious disease outbreaks. The importance of standard precautions and safe practice is emphasised. A knowledge check is included.

Module 7: Public Health and Microbiology
In the final module, learners will explore the role of microbiology in public health. This includes understanding how epidemiology is used to track and control infectious diseases and the role of vaccination in preventing illness. Learners will examine how microbiology supports population health and protects communities.

Target Audience

This course is suitable for:

• Health and social care workers involved in infection prevention and care delivery.
• Support workers and carers working in residential, community, or clinical settings.
• Team leaders and managers responsible for safety and infection control standards.
• Students and learners preparing for careers in health and social care.

No previous microbiology knowledge is required. The course is designed to be accessible, practical, and relevant to everyday care practice.

FAQ

What does the course cover?
The course covers microorganisms, infection processes, diagnostics, antimicrobial use, infection control, and public health applications.

Is this course relevant to UK practice?
Yes. The course aligns with UK health and social care standards and infection prevention expectations.

Will this help with infection control responsibilities?
Absolutely. The course strengthens understanding of why infection control measures are essential and how to apply them effectively.

How long does the course take?
The course is self-paced and typically takes 1 hour to complete.

Will I receive a certificate?
Yes. A certificate is provided upon successful completion.

Is this course CPD accredited?
Courses are not currently CPD accredited, but accreditation is planned.

Microbiology knowledge saves lives. By understanding how infections develop, spread, and are controlled, you play a vital role in protecting the health and wellbeing of those you support.

Join this free course today and build your confidence in microbiology for health and social care.