How to learn about Biology?

Knowing why you want to study biology, whether for academic purposes, career advancement, or personal interest, can focus your learning. Daily study and practice help retain complex concepts and details. Join biology communities like online forums or local study groups for exchange of knowledge and motivation. Work on real projects such as participating in biology experiments or research. Introduction to Genetics and Evolution by Duke University is an excellent course to start with.

What are the best biology courses on Coursera?

Popular biology courses include Introduction to Genetics and Evolution from Duke University , Biology Everywhere from University of Colorado Boulder , and Cancer Biology from Johns Hopkins University . You’ll also find general and specialized topics, including molecular biology , human physiology , and ecology .

Can I learn biology for free on Coursera?

Yes. Many biology courses offer a free audit option, which allows you to access video lectures and reading materials without cost. To earn a certificate or complete assignments, you’ll need to pay or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in a biology course?

Depending on the course, you can learn about cells, DNA , genetics , evolution , the human body, ecosystems, or diseases. Some courses focus on fundamentals, while others explore applied biology in fields like medicine , biotechnology , or environmental science .

Do I need a science background to take a biology course?

Not necessarily. Many biology courses on Coursera are beginner-friendly and start with foundational concepts. If you’re looking for more advanced content, there are also options for students and professionals in healthcare or research.

Can biology courses on Coursera help with school or career goals?

Yes. Biology is foundational in many academic and career paths, including healthcare , medicine , research , and environmental science . Coursera courses can help you prepare for exams, deepen your understanding, or build knowledge for a future degree or job in the life sciences.

Top Biology Courses - Learn Biology Online

Status: Free Trial

Rice University

Introduction to Biology: Evolution

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Biology, Taxonomy, Anatomy, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Scientific Methods, Research

Status: Free Trial

University of California San Diego

Finding Hidden Messages in DNA (Bioinformatics I)

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Data Analysis, Computational Thinking, Biochemistry, Biology, Life Sciences, Algorithms, Probability & Statistics

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)

Circadian clocks: how rhythms structure life

Skills you'll gain: Biology, Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Medical Science and Research, Health Care, Pharmacology, Chronic Diseases, Psychology, Behavioral Health, Environment, Pathology

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Specialty Topics: Biology Across Disciplines

Skills you'll gain: Human Development, Biology, Child Development, Music, Decision Making, Liberal Arts, Life Sciences, Education and Training, Psychology, Science and Research, Business Economics, Clinical Trials

Nanjing University

结构生物化学（Structural Biochemistry)

Skills you'll gain: Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Chemistry, Biology, Bioinformatics, Laboratory Research, Structural Analysis, Experimentation, Mathematical Modeling

Duke University

Dog Emotion and Cognition

Skills you'll gain: Psychology, Learning Theory, Training Programs, Anthropology, Social Sciences, Experimentation, Research, Scientific Methods, Biology

The University of Melbourne

Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression

Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Precision Medicine, Life Sciences, Oncology, Environment, Biology, Medical Science and Research, Pharmacology, Experimentation, Nutrition and Diet

The University of Tokyo

Welcome to Game Theory

Skills you'll gain: Game Theory, Strategic Thinking, Socioeconomics, Social Sciences, Behavioral Economics, Economics, Strategic Decision-Making, Decision Making, Business Strategy, Probability

American Museum of Natural History

Ecology: Ecosystem Dynamics and Conservation

Skills you'll gain: Environment, Systems Thinking, Environmental Science, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Resource Management, Environmental Issue, Biology, Mathematical Modeling, Scientific Methods

American Museum of Natural History

Genetics and Society: A Course for Educators

Skills you'll gain: Healthcare Ethics, Medical Science and Research, Education and Training, General Science and Research, Teaching, Interactive Learning, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Intellectual Property, Medical Privacy, Biology, Food and Beverage

Status: Free Trial

Rice University

Medical Terminology III

Skills you'll gain: Medical History Documentation, Medical Terminology, Medical Records, Health Information Management and Medical Records, Obstetrics And Gynecology, Neurology, Gynecology, Urology, Anatomy, Psychiatry, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders

Status: Free Trial

University of Toronto

Bioinformatic Methods I

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Biology, Data Analysis Software, Data Mining, Life Sciences, Analysis, Statistical Analysis, Databases

Biology Courses

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