Program Overview

Program Overview

The Fundamentals of Immunology: Inflammation, Tolerance, Autoimmunity course is a fully online, self-paced program offered by Rice University. This course is the third in the Fundamentals of Immunology specialization and delves into the immune system's essential functions, including the adaptive and innate immune systems.

Course Details

• Format: 100% Online, Self-Paced
• Course Duration: Approximately 5 weeks
• Time Commitment: Approximately 5 hours/week
• Credentials Offered: Non-Credit Course Certificate
• Platform: Coursera

Course Objectives

In this course, participants will deepen their understanding of the immune system by exploring:

• The form, function, and origin of antibodies
• Mechanisms of variation generation, including gene rearrangement and class switching
• How immune cells coordinate attacks on pathogens and evaluate mechanisms preventing them from attacking the body's cells
• Insights to diagnose and manage autoimmune and hypersensitive pathologies
• Technologies to protect transplants from rejection

Target Audience

This course is suitable for:

• Premed and medical students seeking foundational knowledge in immunology
• Individuals with an autoimmune disease or allergic sensitivity looking to understand their condition better
• Anyone with a family member coping with a transplant who wants to learn more about immune system interactions and care

Instructor

The course is taught by Dr. Alma Moon Novotny, Ph.D., who earned her PhD from Purdue University in Developmental Biology. Dr. Novotny has taught college courses in plant and animal sciences, genetics, and introductory cell and developmental biology for over forty years and is a three-time recipient of the George R. Brown Award for Superior Teaching.

Related Courses

The Fundamentals of Immunology specialization includes four courses:

• Course 1: Fundamentals of Immunology: Innate Immunity and B-cell Function
• Course 2: Fundamentals of Immunology: Complement, MHC I and II, T Cells, and Cytokines
• Course 3: Fundamentals of Immunology: Inflammation, Tolerance, Autoimmunity
• Course 4: Fundamentals of Immunology: Dueling with Pathogens and Cancer