The Genetics and Genomics Academy is offering six undergraduate courses for Fall 2024! These courses are designed to give non-life science majors an introduction to genetics and genomics while exploring an interesting and relevant topic. No prerequisites or prior genetics knowledge needed! Five of these courses are one credit hour. Our course titled “Race, Genes, and Society” is 3 credit hours and will count towards student’s USDEI GEP.
BSC/GGA 295 (005): HOLD MY BEER! THE GENETICS AND GENOMICS OF BREWING
Fall 2024, Fridays 1:55 PM – 2:45 PM, 1 credit hour
Discover the pivotal role of genetic and genomic tools in elucidating the intricate biology of plant and yeast species crucial for the art of beer brewing. Delve into how these
methodologies shed light on the diverse varieties and strains essential for crafting the perfect brew. Gain insights into the genetic underpinnings of flavor profiles, fermentation characteristics, and other key attributes that contribute to the rich tapestry of brewing traditions across the globe.
Fall 2024, Fridays 1:55 PM – 2:45 PM, 1 credit hour
Discover the pivotal role of genetic and genomic tools in elucidating the intricate biology of plant and yeast species crucial for the art of beer brewing. Delve into how these
methodologies shed light on the diverse varieties and strains essential for crafting the perfect brew. Gain insights into the genetic underpinnings of flavor profiles, fermentation characteristics, and other key attributes that contribute to the rich tapestry of brewing traditions across the globe.
BSC/GGA 295 (006): FROM WILD PLANTS TO FOODS
Fall 2024, Fridays 1:55 PM – 2:45 PM, 1 credit hour
Investigate how ancient humans cultivated the first crops and the genetic changes that accompanied this pivotal shift. Delve into the genetic basis of domestication and its effects on crop diversity, while also examining modern techniques like gene editing for crop improvement. Explore how agriculture transformed human societies and continues to shape our world today.
Fall 2024, Fridays 1:55 PM – 2:45 PM, 1 credit hour
Investigate how ancient humans cultivated the first crops and the genetic changes that accompanied this pivotal shift. Delve into the genetic basis of domestication and its effects on crop diversity, while also examining modern techniques like gene editing for crop improvement. Explore how agriculture transformed human societies and continues to shape our world today.
BSC/GGA 295 (007): MAIZE MATTERS: EXPLORING THE PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE OF CORN
Fall 2024, Mondays 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM, 1 credit hour
Embark on a fascinating journey through the story of corn, from its ancient roots in central Mexico to its modern-day role in agriculture. This course explores the profound impact of genetics on agriculture and everyday life, addressing questions about the origins of crops, selection, and agricultural practices. Through scientific readings and engaging discussions, students will gain a deeper understanding of genetic variation and its implications for our world.
Fall 2024, Mondays 3:00 PM – 3:50 PM, 1 credit hour
Embark on a fascinating journey through the story of corn, from its ancient roots in central Mexico to its modern-day role in agriculture. This course explores the profound impact of genetics on agriculture and everyday life, addressing questions about the origins of crops, selection, and agricultural practices. Through scientific readings and engaging discussions, students will gain a deeper understanding of genetic variation and its implications for our world.
BSC/GGA 295 (008): BEHIND THE GENES: EXPLORING STORIES OF GENETIC DISCOVERIES
Fall 2024, Tuesdays 11:45 AM – 12:35 PM, 1 credit hour
From Mendel’s peas to CRISPR, this course will explore tales of perseverance, ingenuity, and serendipity that have shaped our understanding of genetics. We will explore personal journeys of pioneering scientists, the ethical dilemmas inherent in genetic research, and the profound implications of genetic discoveries on society. Students will grapple with the ethical dilemmas of genetic research, exploring questions of consent, equity, and social responsibility, while critically assessing the profound societal implications of genetic discoveries on healthcare, agriculture, biodiversity, and beyond.
Fall 2024, Tuesdays 11:45 AM – 12:35 PM, 1 credit hour
From Mendel’s peas to CRISPR, this course will explore tales of perseverance, ingenuity, and serendipity that have shaped our understanding of genetics. We will explore personal journeys of pioneering scientists, the ethical dilemmas inherent in genetic research, and the profound implications of genetic discoveries on society. Students will grapple with the ethical dilemmas of genetic research, exploring questions of consent, equity, and social responsibility, while critically assessing the profound societal implications of genetic discoveries on healthcare, agriculture, biodiversity, and beyond.
BSC/GGA 295 (009): BIOTECHNOLOGY & BIOENGINEERED FOODS
Fall 2024, Mondays 11:45 AM – 12:35 PM, 1 credit hour
Sustainable agriculture. Genetically modified organisms. Social justice. Organic food. Biotechnology. You’ve heard these buzzwords, but what do they mean? Does sustainable mean organic? What does biotechnology
have to do with social justice? Should I eat GMOs? Should I avoid them? This course will explore how biotechnology can be used to engineer foods, and how food biotechnology can be used to work toward sustainability and
social justice. We will have to not only learn some science, but also grapple with the definitions of terms that are used to mean different things by different people. Together, we will practice dissecting scientific claims,
discussing sometimes controversial topics, and thinking about how we approach wicked problems.
Fall 2024, Mondays 11:45 AM – 12:35 PM, 1 credit hour
Sustainable agriculture. Genetically modified organisms. Social justice. Organic food. Biotechnology. You’ve heard these buzzwords, but what do they mean? Does sustainable mean organic? What does biotechnology
have to do with social justice? Should I eat GMOs? Should I avoid them? This course will explore how biotechnology can be used to engineer foods, and how food biotechnology can be used to work toward sustainability and
social justice. We will have to not only learn some science, but also grapple with the definitions of terms that are used to mean different things by different people. Together, we will practice dissecting scientific claims,
discussing sometimes controversial topics, and thinking about how we approach wicked problems.
BSC/USDEI 295 (301): GENES, RACE, & SOCIETY
Fall 2024, Wednesdays 1:30 PM – 2:45 PM, 3 credit hour *USDEI GEP*
This course explores the complex interplay between genetics, race, and various social constructs. Through a combination of historical perspectives and contemporary research, students gain insights into how these factors intersect and influence one another. Emphasis is placed on dispelling misconceptions surrounding genetics and race, fostering critical thinking, and promoting a nuanced understanding of the relationships between biological and social aspects. The course encourages students to engage in thoughtful discussions, challenging preconceptions, and promoting a holistic view of the intricate connections between genes and society.
Fall 2024, Wednesdays 1:30 PM – 2:45 PM, 3 credit hour *USDEI GEP*
This course explores the complex interplay between genetics, race, and various social constructs. Through a combination of historical perspectives and contemporary research, students gain insights into how these factors intersect and influence one another. Emphasis is placed on dispelling misconceptions surrounding genetics and race, fostering critical thinking, and promoting a nuanced understanding of the relationships between biological and social aspects. The course encourages students to engage in thoughtful discussions, challenging preconceptions, and promoting a holistic view of the intricate connections between genes and society.