Modern Biology & Its Real World Applications

Modern biology is transforming how we understand ourselves, our environment, and the future of life on Earth. In this course, students explore the core principles of molecular biology, genetics, and evolution, and investigate how these concepts shape advances in medicine, agriculture, and ecology.

Beginning with the structure and function of DNA, RNA, and proteins, students build a foundation for understanding how cells operate and how genetic information drives biological systems. They then apply this knowledge to pressing real-world topics such as genetic engineering, cancer biology, immunology, biotechnology, and virology. Mini-units on bioethics and climate biology invite students to consider the broader implications of scientific discovery, connecting biology to social, historical, and economic contexts.

Through interactive lectures, group discussions, online labs, and multimedia activities, students gain both scientific literacy and insight into how biological innovation influences the world around them.

Please note, this course does not include a wet lab component. 

Approximately a third of the material covered in this course will already be familiar to students who have taken AP Biology.