Biotechnology: How It Works and Why It Matters
Biotechnology uses living things and their components to make products, treat disease, and address global challenges — but how does it work, and what are its consequences? This course for non-majors introduces the molecular tools behind genetic engineering, genome editing, mRNA vaccines, protein design, and AI-driven drug discovery, and examines their real-world applications — from engineering microorganisms to produce biofuels and bioplastics to developing precision therapies for individual patients. Monday and Wednesday lectures build core scientific knowledge in biotechnology, and Friday discussions delve into controversies, ethical dilemmas, and policy debates drawn from current events. No prior college science required. Students from any major will leave better equipped to evaluate biotechnology claims, weigh tradeoffs, and form informed positions on the technologies reshaping our world.
Topics
- Explain the biochemical principles underlying key biotechnologies, including genetic engineering, genome editing, mRNA platforms, and AI-assisted protein design.
- Describe how biotechnological tools are applied to real-world challenges, including the development of biofuels, bioplastics, engineered microorganisms, and precision medicines.
- Analyze the benefits, limitations, and unintended consequences of specific biotechnological applications across environmental, medical, and societal contexts.
- Examine the ethical, social, and policy questions raised by genome editing, mRNA vaccines, AI in drug discovery, and environmental biotechnology, including issues of access, equity, and governance.
- Articulate a reasoned personal position on a biotechnology controversy, drawing on scientific evidence and ethical principles.
- Communicate ideas about biotechnology clearly and accurately in written and discussion-based formats appropriate for a general audience.
Official roster learning outcomes
Sources
- Course catalogue ↗2026-2027