Genetics are a branch of biology dealing with an organism’s complete set of DNA—otherwise known as a “genome” in the scientific community—containing all genes that get passed down to it and eventually inherited by its offspring. These genes contain all the information needed to reproduce and develop a functioning person, plant, or animal.

The study of Genetics can be used to explore the genetically determined similarities and differences between human beings. These studies are important in finding answers to questions regarding the inheritance and development of different human phenotypes. The identification of genetic variants also leads to an understanding of disease development, moving Researchers closer to treatments and cures.

Genetics studies can be applied to a broad range of careers. According to study.com, Engineers, Healthcare Professionals, Agricultural Scientists, and Law Enforcement Professionals can maximize their expertise by exploring courses in Genetics. Some titles people have earned by studying Genetics include Genetic Counselor, Biomedical Engineer, Biochemist, Biophysicist, Clinical Researcher, Forensic Science Technician, Medical Scientist, Agricultural and Food Scientist, and Teacher or Higher-Education Faculty Member.

Genetics courses taught through Coursera show learners how basic Biology principles can lead to a more advanced understanding of various Genetics specializations, including Medical Genetics, Evolutionary Genetics, Molecular Genetics, Genomics, Population Genetics, and more. Going further into the subject, learners can explore practical applications of their Genetics studies with sequencing experiments and genomic data science.

Learners with a special interest in genetic abnormalities can take courses on cancer and how it is prevented, diagnosed, and treated, with assignments helping to explore how researchers find genes responsible for different diseases. Successful learners will understand how this information is used to fight these diseases, explore current approaches to finding single genetic variants, and discuss clinical applications of genetic findings.