Engineering Life: Synbio, Bioethics & Public Policy

• When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?

  Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:

  • The course may not offer an audit option. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid.
  • The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.

• What will I get if I purchase the Certificate?

  When you purchase a Certificate you get access to all course materials, including graded assignments. Upon completing the course, your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.

• Is financial aid available?

  Yes, Coursera provides financial aid to learners who cannot afford the fee. Apply for it by clicking on the Financial Aid link beneath the "Enroll" button on the left. You’ll be prompted to complete an application and will be notified if you are approved. Learn more.

• What is the most important thing I'll learn if I take this class?

  The primary goal of this class is to help scientists think a bit more like policy makers and the public, seeing not only the incredible promise of the science they do, but also the potential risks and pitfalls, so these can be avoided or designed against at the beginning of a project, rather than at the end, when the challenges and costs are higher. Working with scholars, policy makers, and fellow learners, students will gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the ethics and governance of synthetic biology.

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