Find out how the body repairs and regulates itself.
Every part of the body is made according to a code that is carried in the body’s cells.
This code is called DNA, and knowing how it works is fundamental to understanding how the body regulates itself throughout our lives.
On this course, you’ll get an introduction to the basics of molecular biology, and how DNA code works inside the human body.
This course is part of the Understanding the Body programme, which will develop your knowledge of the human body and can lead to 10 credits from the University of Aberdeen.
What you’ll study
You’ll find out what DNA code represents, how it creates proteins inside the body, and the key molecules involved.
You’ll learn how molecules communicate and interact with each other inside the body.
You’ll cover the following topics:
- What are the key molecules involved in molecular biology?
- The role of reproduction in producing an individual’s DNA code
- What does the DNA code represent?
- Using the DNA code to create proteins
- How do molecules within the body communicate with one another?
By the end of this course, you’ll be able to…
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Describe the processes involved in reproduction at a molecular level that result in an individual’s DNA.
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Summarise the structure and relevance of DNA.
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Describe the key molecules involved in protein synthesis.
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Explain and compare the different stages of protein synthesis.
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Summarise the key principles involved in molecular signalling.
How you’ll study
How Does the Body Use DNA as a Blueprint is a 3-week short course, delivered entirely online via FutureLearn. You can study anywhere in the world and manage your study hours to suit you.
The course is delivered by academics and health researchers from our Institute of Applied Health Sciences.
It features a range of online resources, including videos, articles, discussion and quizzes.
You’ll spend around 4 hours per week on this course.
Where this will take you
This course is part of our Understanding the Body programme. It develops your knowledge of the human body and can lead to 10 credits at undergraduate degree level (SCQF Level 9) if you upgrade your course for a fee.
These credits can be built up towards higher qualifications.
Further learning
If you’re keen to learn more about the human body, the Institute of Applied Health Sciences offers a range of short courses, awards and postgraduate degrees in this area:
Your teaching team
Dr Alison Richmond
Alison is a Research Assistant at the Institute of Medical Sciences at the University of Aberdeen, working alongside the researchers in the Centre for Arthritis and Musculoskeletal Health.
She has a PhD in Biochemistry and a MSc in Human Nutrition and an interest in supporting the learning of others.
Dr Elizabeth Hay
Elizabeth is a Research Fellow in the Institute of Medical Sciences at the University of Aberdeen. She has a PhD in molecular biology and is currently researching genetic factors that influence joint health and arthritis.
Apply for this course
This course is aimed at anyone interested in molecular biology and how DNA code works. No existing knowledge of biology or chemistry is required.
