All living things are made up of cells – plants, animals and you, of course! Understanding cell biology is critical for anyone keen to work with living things, and this course provides a sound introduction that will enhance your knowledge base for a career in biology, biochemistry, health sciences or animal studies.
The Certificate of Cell Biology is an online program that will introduce you to both plant and animal cells, their structure, and how they function.
In this professional development course, you will explore the chemical composition, protein structure and membranes of cells and study DNA, genes and chromosomes.
You will also learn about cell division, the cell cycle and tissue formation, the intracellular compartments of cells, and how cells communicate.
On completion of this course, you will have gained a solid introduction to cell biology which will not only provide work opportunities that go way beyond just pure science but help you understand your body in a whole new light!
Course Structure
Unit - Cell Biology
Unit 1 – Introduction to cells and their structure
- What is a cell
- history of cell biology
- Prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells
- Cell shape and size
- Cell structure
- The nucleus and the nucleolus
- Euchromatin and heterochromatin
- The animal cell / parts of the animal cell
- Plant cells
- Human cells
Unit 2 – Cell Chemistry
- Cell composition
- Carbohydrates
- Lipids
- Nucleic acids
- Proteins
- Enzymes;
- Cell membranes
- Golgi apparatus
Unit 3 – DNA, chromosomes and genes
- DNA
- Chromosomes
- Genes
- DNA replication
- Telomeres and telomerase
- Genetics
- Greg Mendel’s genetic experiments
- Phenotype and genotype
- Gene mutations
- Hereditary modifications in plants
Unit 4 – Cell Division, Mitosis and Meiosis
- Cell division
- Mitosis
- Meiosis
- Terminology
Unit 5 – Cell membrane
- Membranes
- Plasma membranes
- Structure of cell membranes
- movement of molecules through cell membranes
- Endocytosis
- Osmosis and filtration
- Hydrostatic pressure
- Electro-chemical gradient
- Nutrient and waste exchange in animal cells
- Mediated and non-mediated transport
- Ionophores
Unit 6 – Protein structure and function
- Protein structure
- Primary, secondary and tertiary structure
- Protein function
- Globular proteins
- Protein organisation
Unit 7 – Protein synthesis
- Protein synthesis overview
- Function of ribonucleic acid in protein synthesis
- Transcription
- Translation
- Initiation; elongation; termination
Unit 8 – Food, energy, catalysis and biosynthesis
- Energy metabolism
- Catabolic metabolism
- Anabolic metabolism
- ATP movement
- Breakdown of food molecules in an aerobic system
- Energy production pathways
- Kreb’s cycle
- Biosynthesis of cell molecules;
- Mitochrondria and chloroplasts
- Carbon fixation
Unit 9 – Intracellular compartments, transport and cell communication
- Cell communication
- Endocrine signalling
- Paracrine signalling
- Autocrine signalling
- Intracellular transport
- Intracellular compartments
- Cytoskeleton
- Actin filaments; intermediate filaments; microtubules
Unit 10 – The cell cycle and tissue formation
- The cell cycle
- Phases of the cell cycle
- Cell cycle regulation
- Cell death
- Cells to bodies
- Stem cells
- Animal tissues
- Plant tissues
- Tissue renewal
Study Hours
Estimated duration 50 hours
Course Delivery and Start
Start anytime, self-paced and 100% online
Assessment
Assessment will be comprised of written exercises, including short-answer questions, reflective tasks, short reports and/or projects. There are no examinations or due dates for assessment. As a result, you can complete training in your own time and at your own pace with the assistance of unlimited tutor support.
Course FAQs
Why Choose Australian Online Courses?
- Professional development that is widely recognised and respected;
- Improve your employment opportunities;
- Study online, anywhere via our elearning system;
- High-quality professional development programs written by industry experts;
- All course materials provided online – no textbooks to buy;
- Unlimited tutor support via email;
- We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply);
- Course may be tax deductible; see your tax advisor.
Are there any entry requirements or pre-requisites?
There are no entry requirements or pre-requisites for entry into this program.
How long will it take to complete this course?
The approximate study hours for this course is 50 hours. We offer twelve (12) months’ access, with extensions available upon application (fees apply).
Can I purchase optional printed materials?
While printed materials are not available for purchase, PDF copies are available for download and self-printing for this program.
When can I start this course?
You can start within 60 minutes during business hours when you enrol and pay in full with a credit card!
Credit card: Within 60 mins during business hours.
BPAY: Within 1-2 working days.
Internet Banking: Within 1-2 working days.
Cheque/Money Order: Upon receipt of mailed cheque.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion of this course?
Yes! You will receive a Certificate of Attainment upon successful completion of your assessment.
Do I need to attend classes or undertake any work placements?
No. All courses are delivered online via our e-learning system and there are no work placement requirements in this course.
What support can I expect from Australian Online Courses?
Unlimited tutor support is available throughout your studies via email during business hours Monday to Friday. Our Administrative team are available Monday to Friday via email, live chat and telephone.
I am an international student. Can I enrol into this course?
Yes! We accept enrolments from individuals both within Australia and internationally; location is no barrier to entry into our programs.
Payment Options
Visa, Mastercard, BPAY and Direct Deposit
Career Pathways
Future growth
Strong
Unemployment
Low
Professional development for those who want to gain a new perspective for understanding life and work with living things.
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