The course begins with an introduction to the basics of mycology, its main divisions, the main roles of mycologists, and how mycology relates to other fields.

The course will teach you about the classification of the four main types of fungi. We will explore the characteristics of microscopic fungi and groups of macroscopic fungi – looking at their morphology, distribution, roles and symbiotic relationships with other organisms. We will also look at how microscopic and macroscopic fungi reproduce and grow in nature, as well as the methods and equipment used to grow fungi in the laboratory.

We will take a closer look at the role of fungi in various fields: medicine, ecology, and industry. We will also look at recent advances in mycology and the most useful and practical applications of fungi.

Course program

Module 1: Introduction to mycology
Part 1: What is a fungus?
Part 2: Subdisciplines of mycology

Module 2: Classification of fungi
Part 1: Overview
Part 2: Methods of classification

Module 3: Microscopic fungi
Part 1: Characterization of microscopic fungi
Part 2: Nutrition

Module 4: Macroscopic fungi
Part 1: Characterization of macroscopic fungi
Part 2: Uses of macroscopic fungi

Module 5: Ecology and evolution of fungi
Part 1: Biogeography and diversity of fungi
Part 2: Ecological role of fungi
Part 3: Biotic interactions

Module 6: Cultivation, growth and identification of fungi
Part 1: Isolation, culture and growth
Part 2: Identification of fungi

Module 7: Medical mycology
Part 1: History
Part 2: Transmission of fungi
Part 3: Mycoses of domestic animals

Module 8: Environmental mycology
Part 1: What is environmental mycology?
Part 2: New methods in environmental mycology

Module 9: Industrial mycology
Part 1: Industrial mycology I
Part 2: Industrial mycology II

Module 10: Advances in mycology
Part 1: Mycology as a priority discipline
Part 2: Other scientific uses