Three rigorous one-semester, graduate-level courses are offered in light microscopy (LM) and scanning (SEM) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM), primarily for graduate students and staff, and for advanced undergraduate students in the teaching complex of the Bessey Microscopy Facility (BMF). These courses have evolved over the years. They include a variety of techniques and laboratory exercises that prepare a successful student to become an independent researcher in the BMF or elsewhere, and to work with any major professor who may not have expertise in microscopy.

Each course consists of: five credits at the 600 level; a limit of 10 students; 11 hours of formal lecture-lab time per week; and additional arranged time for continuation of laboratory procedures and individual operation of microscopes and ancillary equipment. Each student has access to the teaching complex 24 hours a day, seven days a week.