CELL 403 - Principles of Medical Genetics

3 units (fi 6)(FIRST, 3-0-0)

The rapid expansion of our understanding of the human genome has created new, exciting possibilities to understanding the root causes of human disease and improve health. However, this also leads to real and potential problems - both ethical and practical. This senior level undergraduate course will consist of four modules each covering different aspects of the scientific theory underlying the practice of Medical Genetics. Topics will include core concepts in human genomics, developmental genetics, genetic variation, Mendelian and non-Mendelian traits, Mendelian disease as examples of key genomic concepts, methodologies that allow for screening of genetic disease and the theory supporting the practice of genetic counselling. This course will be based on didactic understanding of the topics and draw upon examples from the expertise of the instructors. Prerequisites CELL 201 or BIOL 201, 300 level course in CELL or GENET or consent of the Department. Note: Not to be taken by students with credit in MDGEN 403. In addition, not available to students currently enrolled in MDGEN 403.

MDGEN 403 - Principles of Medical Genetics

3 units (fi 6)(FIRST, 3-0-0)

The rapid expansion of our understanding of the human genome has created new, exciting possibilities to understanding the root causes of human disease and improve health. However, this also leads to real and potential problems - both ethical and practical. This senior level undergraduate course will consist of four modules each covering different aspects of the scientific theory underlying the practice of Medical Genetics. Topics will include core concepts in human genomics, developmental genetics, genetic variation, Mendelian and non- Mendelian traits, Mendelian disease as examples of key genomic concepts, methodologies that allow for screening of genetic disease and the theory supporting the practice of genetic counselling. This course will be based on didactic understanding of the topics and draw upon examples from the expertise of the instructors. Prerequisites CELL 201 or BIOL 201, 300 level course in CELL or GENET or consent of the Department. Note: Not to be taken by students with credit in CELL 403. In addition, not available to students currently enrolled in CELL 403.

MDGEN 407 - Independent Studies in Genetic Counselling

3 units (fi 6)(EITHER, 0-3S-0)

An interactive course designed to provide undergraduate students insight into the role of a genetic counsellor through exploration of key topics. The class meets once a week for a 2-to-3-hour discussion. Each week students will be presented a typical genetic counselling case, which they will then write up and present to the entire class the following week. All students will then participate in the discussion of the case. Midterm(s) and/or finals consist of a 60 min presentation on a choice of various ethical issues currently impacting the field. The course is graded based on presentations, written assignments and participation. Open to undergraduate students with permission of the course instructor. Credit may only be obtained in one of MDGEN 407 or MDGEN 507.