Genetics
A genetics pre-medical course is designed to provide students with a foundational understanding of genetics, the study of genes and their inheritance, in preparation for medical school. Medical schools often require applicants to have completed specific science courses, and genetics is typically one of them.
The genetics pre-medical course covers the same topics as a regular genetics course, but with a focus on the application of genetics to human health and disease. Topics covered may include:
- Molecular genetics: The course covers the structure and function of genes, DNA replication, gene expression, and genetic variation.
- Mendelian genetics: The course covers the principles of inheritance, including patterns of inheritance for single-gene disorders and genetic diseases.
- Population genetics: The course covers the study of genetic variation within and between populations, including genetic drift and natural selection.
- Genomics: The course covers the study of the complete set of genes in an organism, including the use of bioinformatics and computational tools.
- Medical genetics: The course covers the application of genetics to human health and disease, including genetic testing, genetic counseling, and the genetics of common diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.
A genetics pre-medical course is typically offered at the undergraduate level and is a required course for students interested in applying to medical school. The course is designed to prepare students for the rigors of medical school by providing them with a strong foundation in genetics and related sciences. It also provides students with an understanding of how genetics is used in medical research, diagnosis, and treatment.