edX is offering a free online course on the theme of “Introduction to Biology - The Secret of Life”.

7.00x is an introductory level biology course hosted by professor Eric Lander, who was one of the leaders of the Human Genome Project. The course content reflects the topics taught in the MIT introductory biology courses and many biology courses across the world. As a learner, you will first focus on the structure and function of macromolecules such as DNA, RNA and proteins. You will discover how changes in the structure of some of these macromolecules alter their functions and what the implications of such changes have on human health. As you continue in the course, you will apply an understanding of heredity and information flow within cells to human health and disease and will learn about molecular biological techniques and their potential to impact our changing world. After you complete this course, you will have a foundation in biology that will allow you to understand the remarkable medical revolution going on today.

Course effort:

16 weeks, 5-10 hours per week.

Prerequisites:

High school level biology and chemistry recommended. A desire to learn is required.

What you'll learn

1. How to describe the building blocks of life and how their interactions dictate structure and function in biology
2. How to predict genotypes and phenotypes given genetics data
3. How to explain the central dogma of molecular biology and convert DNA sequence to RNA sequence to protein sequence
4. How to use molecular tools to study biology
5. How to describe the principles of early sequencing as well as modern sequencing and the effects of these technologies on the filed of genomics
6. How to apply the principles of modern biology to issues in today's society

Course costs:

Audit Track: Free of charge and you’ll get:

• Limited access to material.
• World class institutions and universities.
• edX support.

Verified Track: For $150 USD you’ll get:

Unlimited access to material and all of the above besides:

• Shareable certificate upon completion.
• Graded assignments and exams.

See more available grants on For9a

See more available opportunities in Australia on For9a