Build a foundation in genetic analysis by connecting patterns of inheritance with the chromosomes and cellular processes behind them. Drawing on content from Anthony J. F. Griffiths, John F. Doebley, Susan R. Wessler, Catherine Peichel, David Wassarman, and Sean B. Carroll, authors of Introduction to Genetic Analysis, published by Macmillan Learning, this introductory course examines how genetics developed and how scientists use evidence to explain heredity.

You will trace major developments in genetics, from its early discoveries to modern applications, and examine the central dogma and the role of single nucleotide polymorphisms. You will also learn how the source text approaches genetic problems and supports your study. You will then analyze single-gene and sex-linked inheritance using segregation ratios and human pedigrees. By studying mitosis and meiosis, you will connect chromosome behavior with Mendelian inheritance and the molecular mechanisms that produce it. Through readings and practice problems, you will apply foundational principles to plant crosses and human inheritance patterns. The course includes approximately six hours of learning material. This course is part of the The Science of Genetic Analysis: From Inheritance to DNA Technology Specialization and can also be taken independently.