• University of Bath

Inside cancer: how genes influence cancer development

An ideal introduction for those interested in understanding how genetics influences the development and spread of cancer.

55,470 enrolled on this course

Cancer genes
  • Duration

    6 weeks
  • Weekly study

    3 hours

As a ‘Genes and Cancer’ student you will explore the fundamental principles that inform the current understanding of cancer and the spread of cancer within the body, supported by teaching from the University of Bath’s world-class cancer researchers.

As a class we will explore the fundamental differences between cancer cells and normal cells in terms of their genetics and behaviour. We’ll introduce the concept of DNA mutations, and how tumours originate from the selective survival of cells where DNA mutations create an advantage allowing division and growth.

We will cover the role of viruses in specific cancers, and will discuss this in the context of cancer development. We will also look at how the cellular signals controlling cell division and cell death are disrupted in cancer cells.

Students on this course will be taught by current cancer researchers, so will benefit from learning about other cancer hallmarks of stimulating new blood vessel growth and tumour spread. There will also be a brief exploration of some of the current challenges associated with current and new treatments for cancer.

Ultimately, this course will show you how genetics can influence a change in the behaviour of cells to make them cancerous.

When would you like to start?

Start straight away and join a global classroom of learners. If the course hasn’t started yet you’ll see the future date listed below.

  • Available now

Learning on this course

On every step of the course you can meet other learners, share your ideas and join in with active discussions in the comments.

Who is the course for?

This is an introductory level course and will be suitable for students who studied biology at school, although those with more experience will also find the content interesting.

Those who successfully complete this course may be interested in continuing their studies with the University of Glasgow course “Cancer in the 21st century” that builds on this subject matter.

Who will you learn with?

A member of University of Bath’s cancer research group, Dr Momna Hejmadi has also received awards for excellence in teaching and has carried out work in open education resources.

Who developed the course?

University of Bath

The University of Bath is one of the UK’s leading universities both in terms of research and our reputation for excellence in teaching, learning and graduate prospects.

Learning on FutureLearn

Your learning, your rules

  • Courses are split into weeks, activities, and steps to help you keep track of your learning
  • Learn through a mix of bite-sized videos, long- and short-form articles, audio, and practical activities
  • Stay motivated by using the Progress page to keep track of your step completion and assessment scores

Join a global classroom

  • Experience the power of social learning, and get inspired by an international network of learners
  • Share ideas with your peers and course educators on every step of the course
  • Join the conversation by reading, @ing, liking, bookmarking, and replying to comments from others

Map your progress

  • As you work through the course, use notifications and the Progress page to guide your learning
  • Whenever you’re ready, mark each step as complete, you’re in control

Want to know more about learning on FutureLearn? Using FutureLearn

Learner reviews

Learner reviews cannot be loaded due to your cookie settings. Please and refresh the page to view this content.

Do you know someone who'd love this course? Tell them about it...