This module will introduce students to the main principles of veterinary microbiology with a strong focus on the main types of microorganisms (e.g. virus, bacteria and parasites) involved in horse health and diseases. Students will learn the structure and nature of micro-organisms, viruses and parasites and gain knowledge of how such organisms are cultivated/identified in the laboratory in order to aid the diagnosis of suspected infections. Students will also gain practical skills in key laboratory activities (e.g. bacteriology, cell-culture, parasitology, microscopy).