About the Course
The Human Genome Project has sequenced all of the approximately 20,000 genes in human DNA. How did scientists gather this information? Can it help cure congenital diseases or cancer? What ethical questions does it present? In this course, we'll explore the intersection of biology, genetics, and technology and its impact on society. We'll review fundamental principles of cell biology and genetics, including mitosis, meiosis, and Mendelian inheritance, get to know the structure and function of DNA and RNA, and sources and types of mutations. We'll explore biotechnology's applications in medicine, aquaculture, agriculture, and industry, and work in the lab to isolate the DNA molecule from common bacteria and split genes using restriction enzymes. We'll also examine DNA vaccines, conduct gel electrophoresis, and model polymerase chain reaction. You'll leave the course with an understanding of how the field of genetics impacts society, current research in molecular biology, and insight into the future of genetic inquiry and technology.
Typical Class Size: 18
Learning Objectives
- Predict the impact of errors in mitosis, meiosis, and DNA replication as sources of disease and dysfunction
- Employ biotechnological lab skills to complete DNA isolation, gene splitting restriction enzymes, gel electrophoresis, and modeling polymerase chain reactions
- Review a biotechnological research journal article to speculate on future reasons and research questions to continue that research
- Develop an original abstract presenting essential interconnections between biology, genetics, and technology
- Produce a presentation, letter, or executive summary of key points of important consideration for one of the heads of agency
- Produce a presentation, letter, or executive summary of three to five key points of important consideration for leaders of government agencies overseeing biotech innovations
About Advanced Enrichment courses
These courses offer above-grade-level material that is presented in a novel context, explored with other advanced learners, and guided by a CTY educator to help prepare students for higher-order thinking and college-style academic challenges. Students work individually and may finish the course early if they complete all requirements before the course end date.
Requirements
CTY courses have grade-level requirements and most require minimum test scores. Some courses may also have prerequisites.
Identification DetailsDates and Tuition
In Person
Dickinson College
Carlisle, PA
Residential Site
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Register by: June 21, 2026
Time Commitment:
This course has a lab fee of $187.
Course Materials
Students should bring basic school supplies like pens, notebooks, and folders to their summer program. You will be notified of any additional items needed before the course begins. All other materials will be provided by CTY.
Sample Reading
These titles have been featured in past sessions of the course and may be included this summer. CTY provides students with all texts; no purchase is required.
Introduction to Biotechnology, by William Thieman and Michael Palladino
You will be asked to join or sign in first.
Register by: July 12, 2026
Time Commitment:
This course has a lab fee of $187.
Course Materials
Students should bring basic school supplies like pens, notebooks, and folders to their summer program. You will be notified of any additional items needed before the course begins. All other materials will be provided by CTY.
Sample Reading
These titles have been featured in past sessions of the course and may be included this summer. CTY provides students with all texts; no purchase is required.
Introduction to Biotechnology, by William Thieman and Michael Palladino
Registration Fee and Financial Aid
Tuition and fees will be waived or reduced for students who qualify for financial aid.
Learn more about Financial Aid