Learn the science of women’s health
Women's Health: Biology and Wellness
How does the particular biology of women relate to their health? What diseases affect women more than men? How does the social standing of women impact their wellness and their access to treatment? You’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the genetics, anatomy and physiology of women, including hormones and reproductive health. We’ll take an in-depth look into select diseases such as endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). If you are thinking about taking pre-med in college or are considering a future in women’s health, this course is for you.
Program Dates
Multiple 2- and 4-week sessions.
Eligibility
For students completing grades 9—12, ages 13+.
Fees
$995
Understand the unique biology and social challenges that affect women’s health
Explorer Women's Unique Anatomy
How do female organs work together to regulate the body? How does the reproductive system work? Learn about diseases such as endometriosis and review a case study about polycistronic ovaries (PCOS).
Learn the Role Hormones Play In Development
How are women’s hormones different from men’s? What’s the biology of menstruation? What disorders are related to hormones and how are they managed?
Understand the Problems the Healthcare System Poses for Women
Dive into the U.S. Healthcare system and the particular challenges it poses for women. See how medicine, social issues and politics intersect with women’s health.
Discover the Science Behind Reproduction
Fertilization. Contraception. Lactation. Know the physiological stages women experience from conception to birth. Learn the hormonal changes that occur with the pill and other means of birth control.
Prepare for a Future in Women's Health or Advocacy
Topics covered in this course offer a good background for potential careers such as physician, nurse, diagnostician, biologist, psychologist, women’s health counselor, legislator, lawyer and social worker.
Final Project: Take a Stand on a Women's Health Issue
You will focus on a particular disease, present current policies affecting it, discuss problems that arise and propose a new approach. Make your case in a video or creative poster.
Apply Now for the Next Available Course
Women's Health: Biology and Wellness
April 4 - May 2
Length: 4 weeks
Cost: $995
Application Deadline: Sunday, March 28, 2021
Women's Health: Biology and Wellness
May 2 - May 30
Length: 4 weeks
Cost: $995
Application Deadline: Sunday, April 25, 2021
Women's Health: Biology and Wellness
June 13 - June 27
Length: 2 weeks
Cost: $995
Application Deadline: Sunday, June 6, 2021
All course options, whether 2 or 4 weeks, have the identical educational content, learning materials, and number of assignments. The difference in length of course is to allow flexibility for a student's busy schedule.
Skills You Will Gain From This Course
- You will be able to discuss the complexities surrounding women’s health in our society
- You will comprehend the hormonal, reproductive and unique metabolic cycles of women
- You will understand issues concerning diagnosis, treatment, vaccination and on-going care
- You will know how to argue your case regarding women’s health issues backed by science
- You will gain insight through video lectures by Brandeis University professors and receive guidance through live sessions with University mentors
- You will be able to determine if a future in medicine or women’s health is right for you
3 Learning Advantages Designed For You
Final Project
The course culminates with a special project that allows you to:
- Demonstrate what you’ve learned in this course
- Get feedback from mentors on your work
- Create a video and a scientific poster to make your presentation
Mentoring
You’ll receive guidance from a Brandeis mentor who can support you and answer questions as you deepen your learning experience. You can expect:
- Encouragement and direction on all assignments
- Inspiration, motivation and confidence to help you succeed
- Brainstorming on your topic to help you prepare for the final project
Flexible Learning
- 100% online — works with your schedule
- 25-30 hours of total instruction and course work, including engaging multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments for which you will receive guidance and support
- Asynchronous: you’ll learn through video lectures. Tune in anytime that works for you.
- Regular live group online sessions with a Brandeis mentor
- Meet fellow students from around the world
Course Designed By
Professor Melissa Kosinski-Collins
PhD, Professor of Biology
Dr. Melissa Kosinski-Collins has been teaching in the Biology department for the last 13 years and won the Louis Dembitz Brandeis Prize for Excellence in Teaching. Professor Kosinski-Collins has designed courses for introductory STEM and non-STEM undergraduates, advanced Biology undergraduates and master’s level university students. She is actively involved in the science education community, researching innovative pedagogy, retention methods, and inclusive strategies in the STEM classroom.
Course Mentors
Kayla
Brandeis University graduate with a B.S. in Biology and Health: Science, Society, and Policy. Currently working as a Health and Behavior Coach at Transform Alliance for Health.
Hunter
Undergraduate student at Brandeis University studying Biology, Health: Science Society and Policy, and French.
Rachel
Undergraduate student at Brandeis University. Currently an active member of the Student Sexuality Information Services on campus, which provides peer support, sexual wellness products, and informational resources to the Brandeis community.
Sumana
Dr. Sumana Setty is a Brandeis University graduate with a double major in Biology and Neuroscience. She then went on to graduate from New York Medical College with an M.D. She spent two years teaching freshman biology at Concord Academy as a Wilcox Fellow and she worked as an instructor for the Neuroscience course at the Center for Talented Youth, a Johns Hopkins summer program. She’s currently a family medicine physician in her final year of residency in Lawrence, MA.
Rose
Brandeis University graduate with a B.A. in Health: Science, Society, and Policy and Theater Arts. Currently working as a Volunteer Program Associate at Food Link MA.
Abby
Undergraduate student at Brandeis University. Previously worked as a teaching assistant focused on neurodegenerative disorders and currently works as an EMT.
How to Apply
It’s easy. No transcripts or letters of recommendation are required. Our application will ask you to provide the following:
- Basic contact information for you and your parent or guardian.
- Why you wish to take this course.
- You can tell your story through writing, video, photos — any media you prefer.
NOTE: Please submit all application materials in English.
Begin the guided process. It should take only a few minutes of your time to answer the questions.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How will you be graded? What are assignments like? How much time do you get to turn around a project? When do you find out if you're accepted? Answers to your question here.
Answers to Your Questions HereWant to study on campus?
Brandeis University offers a variety of residential courses throughout the summer that allow Precollege students to engage in the rigors of academics at a world-class university, and join a vibrant community of people interested and engaged in some of the most pressing issues of our time.
Learn More About On Campus Study