Course description
CRISPR: Gene-editing Applications
Earn an official certificate of professional achievement from Harvard University.
CRISPR shares the same space as blockchain and IoT payments as one of the most disruptive innovations of recent years. This gene-editing tool has already impacted industries such as biofuel, agriculture, and healthcare, with its global market potential growing exponentially.
This online short course from Harvard's Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning (VPAL), in association with HarvardX, provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the CRISPR Cas9 gene-editing technology, its vast applications, and the market opportunities that genetic engineering presents. With a specific industry focus and through real-world case studies, you’ll explore the applications of CRISPR in biotechnology and how it will assist the development of disease-resistant cultivars, improve food yields, and allow biofuels to become a viable alternative energy source. You’ll analyze the possibilities of curing inherited genetic disorders, treating infectious diseases, and advancing the fight against cancer. Equipped with industry insight into the ethical implications of gene-editing, this course will give you a holistic understanding of the CRISPR landscape and its future potential.
Suitability - Who should attend?
Is this course for you?
This is not a technical course and no lab skills or prior knowledge of genetic engineering is required to participate. This course gives a comprehensive overview of the CRISPR DNA editing landscape for investors or entrepreneurs looking for the knowledge needed to make strategic business decisions about this disruptive technology. Those working in biotechnology or pharmaceutical product development, sales, or manufacturing will also find value as the content explores the future applications of CRISPR across the economy. Professionals involved in policy and law can also benefit from building a greater understanding of the ethical considerations regarding CRISPR and genetic modification.
Outcome / Qualification etc.
Study CRISPR Cas9 gene-editing technology and earn an official premier certificate from Harvard’s Office of the Vice Provost for Advances in Learning (VPAL), in association with HarvardX.
Assessment is continuous and based on a series of practical assignments completed online. In order to be issued with a certificate, you’ll need to meet the requirements outlined in the course handbook. The handbook will be made available to you as soon as you begin the course.
What will set you apart
On completion of this course, you’ll walk away with:
- The ability to understand CRISPR technology and its potential application in the biofuel, agriculture, and healthcare industries.
- The knowledge to identify market opportunities and consider the ethical implications of genetic modification.
- The industry insight and technological understanding to better communicate your company’s potential biotech initiative to business decision makers.
- Unlimited access to 2U’s Career Engagement Network, offering you exclusive resources and events to support your professional journey and drive your career forward.
Training Course Content
Explore the possibilities of CRISPR genetic engineering as you follow your learning path through the weekly modules of this online short course.
Module 1
Basic principles of molecular biology
Module 2
CRISPR and genetic engineering
Module 3
Treating genetic diseases
Module 4
Promoting resistance to infectious diseases
Module 5
Combating cancer through research and treatment
Module 6
Optimizing and fighting microorganisms: The food, health, and energy industries
Module 7
Improving agriculture: Optimizing crops
Module 8
The ethics of using CRISPR
Course delivery details
Duration
- 8 weeks Excluding orientation
- 7–10 hours per week Self-paced learning online