The Genetics and Genomics Academy (GGA) continues to be a leader in interdisciplinary programming, especially through its undergraduate course offerings that allows any NC State major to explore the world of genetics and genomics.

The GGA is unique in that there are no restrictions on its one-credit courses for undergraduate students to enroll in.

“We’re very intentional about not placing any barriers in front of students for taking GGA classes,” said Melissa Ramirez, Director of Undergraduate Programs for the Genetics and Genomics Academy. “So any major, any academic year. We welcome all students.”

In previous years, undergraduate coursework through the GGA has been unique in focusing on different industries, such as My Pet’s DNA, the Genetics and Genomics of Brewing, Exploring the Past, Present, and Future of Corn, and so much more. 

“One great thing about our 1-credit courses is that graduate students and postdoctoral scholars have a chance to get involved as instructors,” Ramirez said. “In some cases, the courses can be directly related to their research topics.”

Take the My Pet’s DNA course, for example: the class has specific lectures that were taught by graduate students on topics that are directly related to their research expertise, giving scientists just starting out an opportunity to learn what it’s like to be an instructor.

For many of these courses that were offered as part of the GGA in previous years, the research continues. On February 5, Executive Director for the GGA Jeff Yoder, Director of the GGA Graduate Program Martha Burford Reiskind, and Ramirez spoke on research related to the My Pet’s DNA course, where students learn how to sequence their pet’s DNA. The presentation was part of the Thursdays at the Bureau series orchestrated by College of Sciences Dean Lewis Owen to better showcase the innovative research happening across the departments within the college. 

Returning this Fall 2026 semester, Casey O’Brien, a PhD student in the Department of Mathematics, will be teaching Taming Selfish DNA, a course where students will learn how to take advantage of gene drive technology to combat world problems. The course will include visits to a research lab specializing in gene drive technology, and discussions about the ethical concerns, risks, and benefits of using this technology. 

For undergraduate students interested in enrolling in interdisciplinary coursework through the GGA, look for the course code GGA when the Fall 2026 term is published on March 4. Enrollment for Fall 2026 begins March 25.

“GGA courses are designed to be flexible, allowing us to quickly incorporate new topics or explore innovative ways of teaching,” Ramirez said. “Our mission is to reach beyond the life sciences and support every student with an interest in genetics and genomics.”

Curious to learn more about the Genetics and Genomics Academy? Visit gga.ncsu.edu.