Cancer Biology

Purchasing more than one course? See Group purchasing.


What is normal cell biology? Why do normal cells become cancer cells? How do new molecular therapies target cancer? Find answers to these questions and more while gaining a better understanding of cancer and its treatments. This concentrated, self-paced, learning experience covers the fundamentals of cancer biology and addresses cutting-edge information that, when applied, will dramatically affect your practice.


Course Topics

  • Normal Cell Biology
  • Understanding Cell Biology
  • Molecular Targets

Oncology Nurse Orientation Bundle

Don't want to choose between courses? This course is included in the Oncology Nursing Orientation Bundle. Save when you purchase these courses together or you may also purchase individually.

Expected Outcomes

Upon completion of this activity, the learner will demonstrate an increase in knowledge of cellular biology related to cancer and its treatment.

Target Audience

This course was designed to meet the educational needs of oncology nurses and others interested in gaining a fundamental understanding of cancer biology. Individuals who may benefit from this course include nurses and other healthcare professionals new to oncology practice, experienced nurses seeking review information, pharmaceutical sales representatives, nursing instructors, nursing students, and case managers.

ILNA Breakdown

Candidates may claim 6.3 CNE or ILNA points in any area of their choosing on the following blueprint areas: Diagnosis and Staging, Disease-Related Biology, Scientific Basis for Practice, Treatment, Basic Concepts for Transplantation, Preparative Regimens.

Candidates will not be able to place the 6.3 ILNA points under both categories as the number of points claimed cannot exceed the total CNE points for the offering.

Learning Objectives

  • Describe three parts of the cell anatomy.
  • List three normal functions of the cell.
  • Describe angiogenesis in normal cell functioning.
  • Explain how cell signaling affects normal cell function.
  • Describe how genetic mutations lead to malignant transformation.
  • Explain how cell signaling influences the cell cycle in a cancer cell.
  • Identify steps in angiogenesis and metastases.
  • Describe the common signal transduction pathways identified in the development of new therapeutic cancer agents.
  • Identify several therapeutic agents which have been approved to target the signal transduction pathways commonly associated with malignancy.
  • Apply the knowledge of these approved targeted therapies when caring for patients with cancer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this course offer pharmacology content?

Yes, this course contains some pharmacology content. View our estimated pharmacology content page for an estimate for this particular course.

Technical Requirements


Supported Browsers for Desktop or Laptop Computers*:



Additional Requirements**:


ONS Courses

Earn valuable CNE, and stay on the forefront of oncology nursing.

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