The Little Stuff Energy, Cells, and Genetics

In this course, we will explore the smaller side of biology: molecular biology. We’ll cover basic topics including cell biology and how cells can go “rogue” and turn into cancer, how energy from the sun is transferred to fuel our bodies, basics of genetics and inheritance, and genetic technologies. At the end of this course, we will discuss ethical and moral implications of several exciting and new genetic technologies.

• Explain how the body maintains control of cells and how loss of control can lead to cancer.

• Describe how energy is passed through the biosphere and why (most) of life is dependent on the sun.

• Explain the basics of genetics, including epigenetics, and how each relates to our phenotype. 

• Describe at least three different genetic technologies currently impact society and give pro and against arguments for each. 

Syllabus

Syllabus - What you will learn from this course
Week 1
Cells Gone Wild: Cancer
Week 2
Energy: From The Sun to Your Granola Bar
Week 3
Mom Genes: DNA, Genetics, and Parenthood
Week 4
Oh, Brave New World

FAQ

When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?

Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:

What will I get if I subscribe to this Specialization?

When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.

Is financial aid available?

Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.

Reviews

I've learned many other things. And I also enjoyed the practices we made.

Thanks a lot!!

MARIA DOLORES GARCIA ROCHA, Monterrey, México

I have learned a lot from this course and I definitely recommend !!

the course was thoroughly awesome and it covered almost all the basics of biology at initial stage.

One of the assignments included reading a NY Times article that required a subscription. Reading materials should be available to users without paywall.