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Course

Genetics

BIOL-40338

Learn Genetics Online: Understanding Inheritance, Disease Risk, and Personalized Medicine

 

Develop a strong foundation in genetics through this comprehensive online course. From analyzing inheritance patterns to exploring breakthrough developments in personalized medicine, you'll gain practical knowledge about how genes shape health, disease susceptibility, and human traits. This course is ideal for healthcare professionals, research assistants, those interested in genetic counseling, or anyone wanting to better understand genetic testing and inheritance patterns.

Learning Objectives

 
  • Understand core principles of Mendelian inheritance and genetic variation
  • Learn molecular genetics fundamentals and gene expression mechanisms
  • Study inheritance patterns of common genetic disorders
  • Explore advances in genetic testing, treatment, and personalized medicine
  • Apply genetic principles to real-world scenarios

Course Format

 

This online genetics course follows an asynchronous format, allowing you to study flexibly while maintaining academic rigor. Weekly modules include structured content, practical exercises, and clear deadlines to ensure comprehensive understanding of genetic principles.

Transferring for College Credit

 

Many UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies courses may transfer to other institutions for college credit. The receiving institution determines credit transfer. We recommend consulting with your intended institution's registrar's office before enrolling to confirm transfer eligibility.

 

What you'll learn

  • Foundations of Inheritance: Explore how traits pass between generations, understand genetic variation, and learn the principles of Mendelian inheritance that shape human characteristics.
  • Molecular Genetics: Examine DNA structure, replication mechanisms, and gene expression to understand the building blocks of inheritance.
  • Human Genetic Disorders: Study common genetic diseases, inheritance patterns, and current developments in genetic testing and treatment options.
  • Modern Applications: Learn about the Human Genome Project, direct-to-consumer genetic testing, and the emerging field of personalized medicine.

Course Information

Online
4.50 units
$845.00

Get more information

This course applies to these programs

Applied Bioinformatics

Course sessions

Add To Cart

Section ID:

187874

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

Essentials of Genetics 10th
by Klug, Cummings, Spencer
ISBN / ASIN: 9780134898414

You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 3/31/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: David O'Keefe

David O'Keefe

Dr. David O’Keefe received his Ph.D. in Neuroscience from UCSD, where he used the powerful genetic tools available in Drosophila (the fruit fly) to study mechanisms of brain development. Following postdoctoral studies at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, he began his career as a science writer, and spent 10 years at the Salk Institute in La Jolla, CA, as the Director of Research Development (i.e., a grant writer). He currently works as the Vice President of Research Development at the Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute (SBP) in La Jolla, CA. SBP scientists include world leaders in the molecular genetics of behavior, physiology, and disease, and Dr. O’Keefe helps to convey their scientific discoveries and aspirations in a compelling fashion. He has recently published in the fields of regenerative medicine and gene therapy, and frequently teaches workshops on scientific communication and grant writing.

Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

189677

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 4/14/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Eric Foss

Eric Foss
Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

187996

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

Essentials of Genetics 10th
by Klug, Cummings, Spencer
ISBN / ASIN: 9780134898414

You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 4/14/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Terence Wong

Terence Wong
Terence Wong earned his Ph.D. in Biological and Biomedical Sciences from Harvard University and Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, where he integrated large functional genomic datasets to identify and characterize novel genetic vulnerabilities in cancer. He is currently the Precision Oncology Medical Strategy, Therapy Selection Lead at Exact Sciences, where he develops and manages the comprehensive and integrated medical strategy for Exact's Therapy Selection products. Prior to Exact, he was a Strategy Insights & Planning Associate Consultant at ZS Associates, where he delivered innovative solutions to pipeline and launch strategy challenges for clients in the oncology biopharma and diagnostics industry. Prior to ZS, he was a Clinical Genomics Analyst at Rady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine (RCIGM), where he analyzed whole genome sequencing data to identify genetic causes for rare disease in critically ill infants and children. He has recently published in the fields of clinical genetics and precision medicine, and is passionate about genetics education.
 
Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

187997

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

Essentials of Genetics 10th
by Klug, Cummings, Spencer
ISBN / ASIN: 9780134898414

You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 4/28/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Katrina Yamazaki

Katrina Yamazaki
Katrina Yamazaki received her Ph.D. in Molecular Pathology from UCSD, where she used x-ray imaging and biochemical techniques to study the mechanisms by which abnormal wall motion leads to an upregulation of inflammation in the heart. Following graduate studies, Dr. Yamazaki was awarded the Institutional Research and Academic Career Development Award (IRACDA) Fellowship, which provided a mentored postdoctoral research experience in the field of mitochondrial biology at UCSD, as well as an opportunity to develop as an instructor through pedagogical training workshops and a mentored teaching assignment at San Diego State University. After her postdoctoral fellowship, Dr. Yamazaki began her academic career at Cal State LA, where she is currently as an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences.
 
 
Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

189678

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 5/5/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Alexandra Moyzis

Alexandra Moyzis
Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

187998

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

Essentials of Genetics 10th
by Klug, Cummings, Spencer
ISBN / ASIN: 9780134898414

You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 5/12/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Eric Foss

Eric Foss
Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

189953

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 5/19/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: David O'Keefe

David O'Keefe

Dr. David O’Keefe received his Ph.D. in Neuroscience from UCSD, where he used the powerful genetic tools available in Drosophila (the fruit fly) to study mechanisms of brain development. Following postdoctoral studies at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, he began his career as a science writer, and spent 10 years at the Salk Institute in La Jolla, CA, as the Director of Research Development (i.e., a grant writer). He currently works as the Vice President of Research Development at the Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute (SBP) in La Jolla, CA. SBP scientists include world leaders in the molecular genetics of behavior, physiology, and disease, and Dr. O’Keefe helps to convey their scientific discoveries and aspirations in a compelling fashion. He has recently published in the fields of regenerative medicine and gene therapy, and frequently teaches workshops on scientific communication and grant writing.

Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

187999

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

Essentials of Genetics 10th
by Klug, Cummings, Spencer
ISBN / ASIN: 9780134898414

You may purchase textbooks via the UC San Diego Bookstore.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 6/2/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Terence Wong

Terence Wong
Terence Wong earned his Ph.D. in Biological and Biomedical Sciences from Harvard University and Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, where he integrated large functional genomic datasets to identify and characterize novel genetic vulnerabilities in cancer. He is currently the Precision Oncology Medical Strategy, Therapy Selection Lead at Exact Sciences, where he develops and manages the comprehensive and integrated medical strategy for Exact's Therapy Selection products. Prior to Exact, he was a Strategy Insights & Planning Associate Consultant at ZS Associates, where he delivered innovative solutions to pipeline and launch strategy challenges for clients in the oncology biopharma and diagnostics industry. Prior to ZS, he was a Clinical Genomics Analyst at Rady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine (RCIGM), where he analyzed whole genome sequencing data to identify genetic causes for rare disease in critically ill infants and children. He has recently published in the fields of clinical genetics and precision medicine, and is passionate about genetics education.
 
Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

190451

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 6/30/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: David O'Keefe

David O'Keefe

Dr. David O’Keefe received his Ph.D. in Neuroscience from UCSD, where he used the powerful genetic tools available in Drosophila (the fruit fly) to study mechanisms of brain development. Following postdoctoral studies at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center in Seattle, he began his career as a science writer, and spent 10 years at the Salk Institute in La Jolla, CA, as the Director of Research Development (i.e., a grant writer). He currently works as the Vice President of Research Development at the Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute (SBP) in La Jolla, CA. SBP scientists include world leaders in the molecular genetics of behavior, physiology, and disease, and Dr. O’Keefe helps to convey their scientific discoveries and aspirations in a compelling fashion. He has recently published in the fields of regenerative medicine and gene therapy, and frequently teaches workshops on scientific communication and grant writing.

Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

190452

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 7/7/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Terence Wong

Terence Wong
Terence Wong earned his Ph.D. in Biological and Biomedical Sciences from Harvard University and Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard, where he integrated large functional genomic datasets to identify and characterize novel genetic vulnerabilities in cancer. He is currently the Precision Oncology Medical Strategy, Therapy Selection Lead at Exact Sciences, where he develops and manages the comprehensive and integrated medical strategy for Exact's Therapy Selection products. Prior to Exact, he was a Strategy Insights & Planning Associate Consultant at ZS Associates, where he delivered innovative solutions to pipeline and launch strategy challenges for clients in the oncology biopharma and diagnostics industry. Prior to ZS, he was a Clinical Genomics Analyst at Rady Children's Institute for Genomic Medicine (RCIGM), where he analyzed whole genome sequencing data to identify genetic causes for rare disease in critically ill infants and children. He has recently published in the fields of clinical genetics and precision medicine, and is passionate about genetics education.
 
Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

190453

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 7/14/2028

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Katrina Yamazaki

Katrina Yamazaki
Katrina Yamazaki received her Ph.D. in Molecular Pathology from UCSD, where she used x-ray imaging and biochemical techniques to study the mechanisms by which abnormal wall motion leads to an upregulation of inflammation in the heart. Following graduate studies, Dr. Yamazaki was awarded the Institutional Research and Academic Career Development Award (IRACDA) Fellowship, which provided a mentored postdoctoral research experience in the field of mitochondrial biology at UCSD, as well as an opportunity to develop as an instructor through pedagogical training workshops and a mentored teaching assignment at San Diego State University. After her postdoctoral fellowship, Dr. Yamazaki began her academic career at Cal State LA, where she is currently as an Associate Professor in the Department of Biological Sciences.
 
 
Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

190454

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 7/21/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Eric Foss

Eric Foss
Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

190455

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 7/28/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Alexandra Moyzis

Alexandra Moyzis
Full Bio
Add To Cart

Section ID:

190456

Class type:

Online Asynchronous.

This course is entirely web-based and to be completed asynchronously between the published course start and end dates. Synchronous attendance is NOT required.
You will have access to your online course on the published start date OR 1 business day after your enrollment is confirmed if you enroll on or after the published start date.

Textbooks:

All course materials are included unless otherwise stated.

Policies:

  • No refunds after: 8/4/2025

Schedule:

No information available at this time.
Add To Cart

Instructor: Daniel Garcia

Daniel Garcia
Full Bio