Genetics: Unlocking the Power of DNA
Understanding genetics is a critical step for pre-medical and post-baccalaureate students preparing for medical school. This course challenges you to engage deeply with inheritance, variation, and genomic technologies, while connecting those principles to the clinical and research settings you will encounter in your training.
Choose the course length that works for you: Multi-length courses available throughout the year
Eligibility
For students ages 18 and up
Fees
$1,895
Unlock the Power of DNA for Medicine
Deciphering the DNA Code
Learn how genetic information is stored in DNA, transcribed into RNA, and ultimately translated into proteins that regulate cellular function in health and disease.
Chromosomes, Variants, and Health
Explore how chromosomal structural changes and genetic variants influence traits and contribute to inherited conditions, with clinical perspectives on diagnosis and therapy.
Genes and Cancer
Delve into the genetic underpinnings of cancer — from mutation accumulation and alterations in oncogenes to disruptions of DNA repair mechanisms and targeted therapies.
Population Genetics and Risk
Study how genetic variation across populations shapes disease risk, and investigate forces like genetic drift, selection, and founder effects in health contexts.
Regulation, Epigenetics, and Mitochondria DNA
Examine gene regulation, epigenetic changes, and mitochondrial genetics, and see how disruptions in each of these can affect human health.
Precision Medicine and Gene Editing
Investigate how genomic insights are transforming disease treatment through precision approaches, including CRISPR gene editing, and other cutting-edge technologies.
Pre-Med Online Certificate Program Advantages
- Develop a clear understanding of genetic principles and how they apply to medicine and research.
- Apply knowledge of DNA, chromosomes, and gene regulation to real-world health contexts.
- Explore clinical and technological advances — from genomic sequencing to precision medicine.
- Gain perspective from Harvard Medical School faculty on how genetics informs modern health care.
- Earn a Certificate of Completion from Harvard Medical School, a valuable credential.
Three Benefits of the Program
Experience Medical School-Level Content
- You’ll have access to medical-school-level material, quizzes, and other engaging content designed by doctors, scientists, and faculty from Harvard Medical School.
- Courses lay a foundation for success in medical school, fostering the intellectual curiosity, empathy, and leadership qualities that define exceptional physicians.
Support from Mentors
- In addition to learning from Harvard Medical School faculty, you will have access to valuable mentors who will guide and support your learning experience.
- Here’s what to expect: You’ll receive guidance tailored to your course’s specific discipline, along with encouragement and direction throughout the program. Mentors are here to offer inspiration, motivation, and confidence — helping you stay on track and succeed every step of the way.
Maximum Flexibility
- Our format is entirely online, allowing you to pursue the rigorous curriculum on your schedule; anytime, anywhere.
- Experience flexible, immersive video content.
- Take multiple courses to deepen your learning experience and further prepare you for medical school.
- Academic enrichment courses include videos, quizzes, and a final exam.
Apply Now for the Next Available Course
Taught by HMS Faculty
Christine DeGennaro, PhD
Lecturer in Genetics, Harvard Medical School (former)
DeGennaro received her PhD in genetics from Harvard Medical School. Shortly thereafter, she spent time completing her post-doctoral research, as well as teaching both in the classroom and online.
Robert C. Green, MD, MPH
Professor of Medicine, Harvard Medical School
At Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Green is also an associate physician and medical geneticist. Additionally, he serves as the director of the Genomes2People research program, which focuses on the medical, behavioral, and economic outcomes of using genomic technologies for patients, physicians, and society at large.
Carrie Blout, MS, CGC, LGC
Senior Genetic Counselor and Project Manager, Brigham & Women’s Hospital
Blout has worked as a genetic counselor for a number of years, having started as a pediatric genetic counselor for patients with intellectual difficulties and birth defects. She now works with the Genomes2People research group to help perform genomic sequencing on both healthy individuals and those who have a genetic disorder.
Your Mentorship Experience
Throughout your program experience, you’ll be guided by mentors — including physicians, researchers, and health care experts — who provide support and insight as you navigate your coursework. These mentors bring expertise in your course’s specific discipline and are dedicated to helping you stay engaged and on track as you progress. They’ll offer encouragement, direction, and motivation while helping you build the confidence needed to succeed in the program and beyond.
Safoora
Currently holds a Bachelor of Science in Medical Studies as well as a Physical Therapy Technician license. Safoora was previously a teaching assistant for a Cell Biology and Immunology course where she helped to make complex pathways more approachable by connecting them to fun, relatable topics. Safoora was also previously a research assistant in a genetics fly lab and is currently working on a publication based on that research.
Allie
Holds a Bachelor of Arts in Politics and International Affairs as well as a Master of Science in Medical Physiology. Allie currently works as a practicing OB/GYN physician in North Carolina and has been featured in national media outlets as an expert birth doula. Allie is excited to help students navigate this unique opportunity to gain an inside perspective into the medical field and learn material traditionally discussed in medical school.
How To Apply:
Our application process is straightforward. Tell us why you are interested in medicine and how this program can help you on your medical journey. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required.
Note: Please submit all application materials in English.
Begin the guided application process. It should take only a few minutes of your time to answer the questions.
Want to Know More?
Sign up for more information and we’ll be in touch.
Admissions
Our application process is easy. You can expect a prompt decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
How will you be graded? How much time do you have to turn around a project? When do you find out if you're accepted? Find answers to your questions here.
Scholarships
We offer need-based scholarships for participating students who exhibit high potential and an inability to pay the full tuition.
- If you haven’t applied to the program, apply here. After submitting your application, click “Apply for a need-based scholarship” on the confirmation page to request a scholarship.
- If you’ve already applied to the program, sign in to your profile to check your scholarship status. If we don’t have a scholarship request on file, click “Apply for a need-based scholarship” to request a scholarship.
