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 interested in medicine or are considering a future in women’s health, this course is for you.

Doctor talking with a female patient

Program Dates

Multiple 2- and 4-week sessions.

Eligibility

For students 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 regulate the body? How does the reproductive system work? Learn about diseases such as endometriosis and a case study on 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 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

Focus on a particular disease, present current policies affecting it, discuss problems, and propose a new approach. Make your case in a video or creative poster.

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 be able to determine if a future in medicine or women’s health is right for you

High school student taking the women's health course from Brandeis

Apply Now for the Next Available Course

We currently have no available cohorts. Please check back for more cohort options in the coming months.

3 Learning Advantages Designed For You

Flexible Learning

  • 100% online — works with your schedule
  • 25-30 hours of total instruction and course work, including engaging multimedia, simulations, and curated assignments
  • You’ll learn through engaging videos. Tune in anytime that works for you
  • Engage with fellow students from around the world

Mentoring

You’ll receive guidance from a 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

Final Project

The course culminates with a special project that allows you to: 

  • Design a poster presentation or infographic based on all you've learned throughout the course
  • Demonstrate what you’ve learned in this course
  • Get feedback from mentors on your work

What Our Students Are Saying

"This is a great course for anyone who is interested in health! It covers disparities in health, anatomy, physiology, pregnancy, infertility, and a specific disease of your choice. It allows you to explore different aspects of women's health, as well as focus on one disease. If you are contemplating being a doctor or getting into the medical field after high school, this is a great course to take."

Renee, women's health student from MA

"This course was the best opportunity to learn about multiple diseases while also going in depth on how they affects intersectional communities. The program has inspired me to always lead my studies and future career with the goal of institutional change towards a more equitable healthcare system."

Veronica, women's health student from NY

Course Designed By

Dr. Melissa Kosinski-Collins | Women's Health Course Instructor | Brandeis University

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

Abby | Brandeis Women's Health Course Mentor

Abby

Undergraduate student at Brandeis University. Previously worked as a teaching assistant focused on neurodegenerative disorders and currently works as an EMT.

Want to Know More?

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Admissions

The 2024 application period opens this winter. Check back later to apply.

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 Questions Here

Want 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

Scholarships

We offer need-based scholarships in each cohort to students exhibiting high potential who need assistance affording the associated cost. If you would like to be considered for a scholarship but you:

The University reserves the right to modify the course as may become necessary.