This course introduces students to molecular evolution and phylogenetics through a blend of concept-driven lectures and practice-based workshops. Students will develop hands-on proficiency with model-based methods for analyzing the evolution of DNA, RNA and proteins, including substitution models, maximum-likelihood and Bayesian tree inference, molecular clocks, and hypothesis testing. Practical sessions will guide students in building, evaluating and interpreting phylogenetic trees using widely adopted tools (e.g., IQ-TREE for ML inference and model selection, BEAST 2 for time-calibrated Bayesian analyses), with opportunities to apply workflows to real research datasets; students are encouraged to bring their own data. Designed for a diverse cohort, the course scaffolds the necessary mathematics and coding through step-by-step labs, equipping students to apply rigorous evolutionary models in contemporary research.