Cell and Molecular Biology Lab

Learn Cell and Molecular Biology Techniques Online This fully online Molecular Biology Laboratory course offers a rigorous introduction to essential molecular biology techniques through a modern, digital format.

Designed for students with prior coursework in biology or biochemistry, the course simulates the hands-on lab experience through a combination of virtual labs, instructor-guided video demonstrations, interactive datasets, and at-home activities.

Students will engage with the core experimental methods used in molecular biology—such as DNA/RNA purification, gel electrophoresis, PCR, and gene expression analysis through digital tools that model real laboratory workflows.

This course emphasizes scientific reasoning, experimental design, and data interpretation, preparing students for advanced study or laboratory roles in academic, clinical, and industrial biotechnology environments.

Learning Outcomes Describe the purpose, principles, and applications of core molecular biology techniques (PCR, electrophoresis, DNA/RNA isolation, etc.) Analyze and interpret laboratory data from virtual and simulated experiments Design hypothesis-driven molecular biology experiments and troubleshoot potential errors Practice proper biosafety and scientific documentation using digital lab notebooks Communicate experimental results in professional scientific formats, including reports and presentations Strengthen scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills relevant to real-world molecular biology labs Prerequisites It is recommended that students have completed a college-level Cell and Molecular Biology lecture course or are taking it concurrently.

Format This course is offered in an online asynchronous format.

There are no set meeting times, however, students follow a weekly schedule and there will be deadlines to meet in terms of course requirements.

This course cannot be completed at an accelerated rate.

Transferring for College Credit Many courses at UC San Diego Division of Extended Studies may be eligible for college credit at UC San Diego or other institutions.

Credit transfer is determined by the receiving institution.

We recommend consulting with the registrar's office at your intended institution before enrolling to confirm how your courses will transfer.