Foundations in Developmental Genetics I is a lecture/reading course which introduces the various topics and major questions of developmental genetics and emphasizes experimental approaches as well as phenomena. Topics include gametogenesis, maternal information, morphogenetic gradients, segmentation, inductive interactions, gastrulation, axial patterning, neural induction, vertebrate limb development, root development, imaginal disc development and morphological evolution. Each session is taught by a faculty member most familiar with the topic. Students write a focused research proposal that relates to a topic discussed in the sessions.

Foundations in Developmental Genetics II is a practical laboratory course carried out in the laboratories of all the DG faculty members. Experiments are conducted by students in classical and modern techniques, including (but not limited to) cell transplantation, fate mapping, lineage analysis, transgenics, video-imaging, RNA and protein detection, cell culture). Students get hands-on experience with the major model organisms used in this field. The objective is to provide students with the ability to exploit the experimental power and understand the limitations offered by these different systems. Students also read and discuss primary research articles. At the end of the course, students design and defend an experiment that may clarify outstanding questions discussed in the course (an exercise that offers excellent preparation for the oral preliminary examinations).

All students in the DG track are required to take a one semester course in Molecular Genetics (NYU Biology) or Eukaryotic Genetics (NYUSM). These high-level courses of similar content provide students with an in-depth familiarity with questions and methods of classical genetics, genomics and gene technology in various model organisms and humans.