Course Description

In Introduction to Biology, we will investigate the mechanisms of transmission and storage of information that allow organisms to develop, adjust to changing conditions, and evolve over time. We will learn about the processes that drive evolutionary change and diversification, and the meaning and relevance of shared ancestry among all living organisms. We will also explore the interconnected relationships of humans and nature. Through discussion-based teaching, inquiry-driven learning,  experiments, hands-on projects, lab experiments, and field trips, students will learn the fundamentals of science, the interconnected and interacting nature of organisms and their environments and the adaptations that have evolved to meet a changing world.

Please Note: This course also includes wet labs, which require extra care for safety due to the presence of chemicals, animal specimens, and scalpels. On those days students will need to bring specific clothing for safety (long sleeves, long pants and close toed shoes.) More details will be provided to enrolled students. 

Essential Questions

  • What has life looked like on Earth over the past four billion years?
  • Which are the molecular mechanisms that generate the variety of living organisms?
  • How do species adapt, arise and go extinct?
  • How do organisms interact with each other and their environment, and what are the basic principles of ecology?
  • What role, impact, and responsibilities do humans have on earth?
  • How do people use our understanding of biology to take action for justice for all parts of nature and humanity?

Other Information

  • Students will be required to bring a laptop or similar device. The Robinson Center can provide a device if your student does not have access.
  • This course requires some homework to be completed outside of the program day. 

Who Should Apply

  • Students currently in 7th, 8th, 9th, or 10th grade

Week Overview

Date Theme/Topic 
Week 1 This week traces life's origins on Earth, exploring the mechanisms of evolution and natural selection that shaped its diversity, and examines the major extinction events that have punctuated its history.
Week 2 Focusing on the present, we study modern ecosystems, with a special emphasis on Pacific Northwest ecology, to understand the complex interactions between species and between humans and the natural world.
Week 3            We confront contemporary global challenges, investigating the drivers of biodiversity loss in the Sixth Extinction, the impacts of climate change and land use, and exploring the ethical responsibilities of human society.
Week 4 The course culminates by shifting from problems to solutions, exploring concepts of sustainability and restoration, and empowering students to develop actionable projects for positive change.

Instructors

  • TBD

Details

Cost

  • $1450
    • $1400 (tuition)
    • $50 (registration fee)

Time

9am - 2:30pm

Location

  • University of Washington Seattle Campus
  • Building and Room TBD

Date

  • June 30th- July 23rd, 2026
  • Monday - Thursday
    • First Class is on a Tuesday

Refund and Transfer Deadlines

  • Full tuition refund: April 10th
  • 50% tuition refund: April 11th-May 8th
  • No refund: after May 8th