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

Johns Hopkins University

Chemicals and Health

Skills you'll gain: Environmental Regulations, Chemistry, Laboratory Testing, Public Health, Environmental Monitoring, Environmental Science, Health Assessment, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Epidemiology, Environmental Policy, Biology, Risk Analysis

Universitat de Barcelona

Oceanography: a key to better understand our world

Skills you'll gain: Physical Science, Water Resources, Geographic Information Systems, Geospatial Information and Technology, Chemistry, Environment, Environmental Science, Physics, Biology, Remote Access Systems

University of Pennsylvania

Vital Signs: Understanding What the Body Is Telling Us

Skills you'll gain: Vital Signs, Respiration, Pulmonology, Health Assessment, Cardiology, Systems Of Measurement, Neurology, Patient Evaluation, Anatomy, Biology

University of Toronto

Data Visualization for Genome Biology

Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization Software, Statistical Visualization, Interactive Data Visualization, Bioinformatics, Ggplot2, Dimensionality Reduction, Scatter Plots, R Programming, Network Analysis, Heat Maps, Molecular Biology, Design Thinking

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Genomics: Decoding the Universal Language of Life

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Environment, Precision Medicine, Biology, Health Systems, Medical Science and Research, Environmental Science, Microbiology, Computational Thinking, Data Processing, Experimentation, Research, Scientific Visualization

Yale University

Introduction to Psychology

Skills you'll gain: Psychology, Mental and Behavioral Health Specialties, Child Development, Mental Health, Human Learning, Social Sciences, Behavioral Health, Neurology, Biology, Scientific Methods

University of Colorado Boulder

Gut Check: Exploring Your Microbiome

Skills you'll gain: Microbiology, Bioinformatics, Life Sciences, Health Informatics, Big Data, Biostatistics, Data Analysis, Molecular Biology, Nutrition and Diet, Biology, Data Collection

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

Status: Free Trial

University of Michigan

Anatomy: Gastrointestinal, Reproductive and Endocrine Systems

Skills you'll gain: Anatomy, Gynecology, Obstetrics And Gynecology, Urology, Medical Imaging, General Medicine

University of Alberta

Dino 101: Dinosaur Paleobiology

Skills you'll gain: Biology, Physical Science, Life Sciences, Taxonomy, Environment, Scientific Methods, Research, Timelines

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

Drug Development Product Management

Skills you'll gain: Clinical Trials, Pharmaceuticals, Clinical Research, Commercialization, Pharmacotherapy, Pharmacology, Regulatory Affairs, Intellectual Property, Portfolio Management, Bioinformatics, New Product Development, Medical Science and Research, Strategic Partnership, Product Marketing, Go To Market Strategy, Health Care Procedure and Regulation, Business Strategy, Marketing Strategies, Market Dynamics, Molecular Biology

Biology Courses

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