The course covers basic and pathogenic bacteriology and mycology. The objective of the course is to give veterinary students a thorough introduction to the theoretical and practical basis for the study of bacterial and fungal pathogens of animals. Lectures cover description of the organisms themselves as well as virulence, pathogenesis, diagnosis and control of animal pathogens. Zoonotic potential of some of the microbes and food safety issues are also discussed. To relate concepts of lectures to practical, laboratory exercises are carried out using microbiological techniques for isolation and identification of disease causing bacteria.