• Understand what genes are and how they control traits through the flow of genetic information.
• Explain the Central Dogma and how DNA, RNA, and proteins interact in living systems.
• Describe DNA structure, genetic variation, and the role of chromosomes in inheritance.
• Apply Mendelian principles to predict inheritance patterns and analyze pedigrees for genetic diseases.
• Use probability, conditional probability, and Bayes theorem to solve genetic problems.
• Perform and interpret genetic mapping, linkage analysis, and recombination studies.
• Gain practical knowledge of molecular techniques such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, restriction enzymes, and DNA microarrays.
• Understand how mutations, SNPs, and structural variations contribute to genetic diversity and disease.
• Analyze quantitative traits, heritability, and factors influencing complex traits in populations.
• Explore QTL mapping and genome-wide association studies to link genetic markers to traits.
• Apply Hardy-Weinberg principles to study population genetics and predict allele frequencies.
• Explain evolutionary forces such as mutation, migration, genetic drift, and natural selection.
• Interpret genetic data for research or clinical applications and understand its implications for human health and evolution.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and applications of genetics, designed for students and professionals seeking a solid foundation in the field. It begins with the molecular basis of heredity, exploring what genes are, how DNA stores and transmits information, and the role of proteins in cellular processes. Students will learn the structure of DNA, mechanisms of genetic variation, and essential terminology that underpins modern genetics.

Building on these fundamentals, the course covers Mendelian inheritance, probability in genetic analysis, and interpretation of pedigrees for understanding genetic diseases. Chromosomal genetics is introduced through the study of mitosis, meiosis, and sex-linked traits, providing insight into how chromosomes influence inheritance patterns.

The course also examines key laboratory techniques used in genetic research, including restriction enzyme analysis, gel electrophoresis, PCR, and DNA microarrays. Students will gain an understanding of linkage and recombination, genetic mapping strategies, and genome-wide association studies, which are critical for connecting genetic markers to traits and diseases.

Advanced topics include quantitative genetics, heritability, and the analysis of complex traits, as well as population genetics concepts such as Hardy-Weinberg equilibrium, mutation, migration, genetic drift, and natural selection. These sections highlight how genetic variation shapes populations and influences evolutionary processes.

By the end of the course, students will be able to:

1. Explain core genetic principles

2. Apply statistical methods to genetic problems

3. Interpret genetic data

4. Understand the relevance of genetics in research, medicine, and biotechnology.

This course serves as a strong foundation for further study in molecular biology, genomics, and related disciplines.

This course includes materials licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution license. Original work by Brian Teague of University of Wisconsin  has been used across the course.

Who this course is for:

• Undergraduate students in biology, biotechnology, or related life sciences fields.
• Medical and health science students who need to understand genetics for clinical practice.
• Researchers and lab technicians seeking to strengthen their understanding of genetic principles and techniques.
• Educators who teach biology and want structured content for genetics.
• Professionals in agriculture, pharmaceuticals, or bioinformatics who require genetic knowledge for applied work.
• Anyone preparing for advanced studies in molecular biology, genomics, or evolutionary biology.