University of Florida offers microbiology boot camps, bringing online STEM lessons to life
The University of Florida says its microbiology boot camps are a “game changer” for its online students, bringing microbiology to life.
Despite the popularity of online learning, a recent study found that STEM students are less satisfied with the digital learning experience.
University of Florida Online aims to change this with its new approach that combines dynamic online STEM courses with in-person lab experiences.
“It was the first time I had a chance to apply all the things I’d been learning [online],” explains Emma Ward, a student who participated in a Summer 2025 boot camp while completing her bachelor’s degree in microbiology and cell science at University of Florida Online. “It gave me a deeper understanding that I couldn’t have gotten just from reading or watching videos.”
After completing online quizzes and learning modules, students spend five days in the laboratory before completing the program with reflection and data analysis.
“Microbiology is a STEM discipline; it’s meant to be touched, observed and experimented with,” explains Monika Oli, PhD, a University of Florida Master Lecturer and Teaching Professor. “We wanted to make sure our online students received the same quality education and lab training as our on-campus students.”
“Whether it’s food microbiology, or understanding water safety, the lab plants seeds for lifelong curiosity,” adds Oli. “On day one, students may be hesitant, but by day five, they’re confident, working independently and proud of what they’ve accomplished.”
After successfully boot camps in microbiology, the Department of Chemistry and University of Florida Online plan to launch an organic chemistry lab in summer 2026.
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