BIOL 3060 Foundations in Genetics

Genetics is the study of heredity. In this course, we will explore the fundamental concepts of molecular and transmission genetics in eukaryotes and the applications of this foundation to the study of genotype-phenotype relationships. Important topics will include gene expression, Mendelian genetics, the chromosomal theory of inheritance, genetic linkage, and epigenetic inheritance. Students will also be introduced to some of the tools that are commonly used for genetic and genomic analyses and to the special cases of cancer genetics and extranuclear genetics.

Course overview

Department
Biology
School
MCAS
Credits
3
Level
Undergraduate
Offered
Every Summer

Catalog details

Prerequisites
BIOL2000

Catalog text is imported from the reviewed Boston College course snapshot. Confirm eligibility in EagleApps.

Requirements fulfilled

  • Biology B.A.: 3000-level-or-higher Biology elective options (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Biology B.S.: 3000-level-or-higher Biology elective options (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Biology B.A.: Genetics and Genomics category (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Biology B.S.: Genetics and Genomics category (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)
  • Biochemistry B.S.: One course in genetics or genomics from the following list (3 or 4 credits) (Current University Catalog; students should confirm their catalog year)

Requirement eligibility can vary by school, cohort, and section. Confirm the selected section in EagleApps or with an advisor.

Official evaluation summary

3.58 / 5

Based on 230 aggregate responses from BC Avalanche/Blue evaluations.

Data freshness

Course and evaluation data last updated 2026-08-02. Source details and limitations are documented in Data Sources and Methodology.

Instructors

  • Rebecca Dunn
    Summer 2026, Summer 2025, Summer 2024, Summer 2023, Summer 2022 · Official rating 4.17/5
  • Lara Kazo
    Spring 2026, Fall 2025 · Official rating 3.37/5
  • Zoe Hilbert
    Spring 2026 · Official rating 4.39/5

Sections

  • Section 01
    Summer 2026 · Rebecca Dunn · On-line Asynchronous · Offered
  • Section 02
    Summer 2026 · Rebecca Dunn · On-line Asynchronous · Offered
  • Section 01
    Fall 2026 · Instructor not listed · Higgins Hall 300 TuTh 10:30AM-11:45AM · Offered
  • Section 02
    Fall 2026 · Instructor not listed · Higgins Hall 300 TuTh 12:00 Noon-01:15PM · Offered