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

University of California, Davis

Sensory Science: Measuring the Senses

Skills you'll gain: Scientific Methods, Systems Of Measurement, Experimentation, Statistical Analysis, Quantitative Research, Human Factors, Psychology, Research Methodologies, Neurology, Product Testing, Anatomy, Biology

University of California San Diego

Algal Blooms and Proliferations

Skills you'll gain: Water Resources, Pollution Prevention, Food Safety and Sanitation, Environmental Issue, Laboratory Testing, Environmental Monitoring, Public Health, Microbiology, Environmental Science, Chemistry, Biology

University of Leeds

Aeroecology: Exploring Biodiversity with Radar

Skills you'll gain: Environmental Monitoring, Environmental Regulations, Environment, Taxonomy, Environmental Science, Spatial Data Analysis, Estimation, Research, Scientific Visualization, Data Literacy, Exploratory Data Analysis, Data Collection, Biology, Physics

Status: Free Trial

Banco Interamericano de Desarrollo

Climate change education: sustainable environments

Skills you'll gain: Environment, Water Resources, Environmental Issue, Civil Engineering, Environment and Resource Management, Environmental Science, Environment Health And Safety, Land Management, Natural Resource Management, Public Health, Community Development, Biology, Mitigation

Yale University

宇宙之旅：对话 (Journey of the Universe: Weaving Knowledge and Action)

Skills you'll gain: Environmental Issue, Liberal Arts, Environment, Social Studies, Culture, Anthropology, Human Development, World History, Creativity, Teaching, Storytelling, Systems Thinking, Physical Science, Environmental Science, Physics, Biology, Economics, Music

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Movement Capabilities Depend on Neuromuscular Properties

Skills you'll gain: Kinesiology, Rehabilitation, Physical Therapy, Neurology, Anatomy, Geriatrics, Biology, Research

Status: Free Trial

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Evolución: Síntesis extendida

Skills you'll gain: Biology, Life Sciences, Human Development, Human Learning, Environment, Anthropology, Innovation, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Fundamental Neural Pathways For Movement

Skills you'll gain: Kinesiology, Neurology, Physical Therapy, Control Systems, Anatomy, Mechanics, Rehabilitation, Biology

Status: Free Trial

University of California San Diego

Hacking COVID-19 — Course 3: Unraveling COVID-19's Origins

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Computational Thinking, Life Sciences, Medical Science and Research, Microbiology, Science and Research

Status: Free Trial

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Evolución: Teoría sintética

Skills you'll gain: Biology, Life Sciences, World History, Social Studies, Deductive Reasoning, Mathematical Modeling, Probability & Statistics

Status: Free Trial

Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center

Researcher's guide to DNA sequencing data

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Data Collection, Data Processing, Science and Research, Exploratory Data Analysis, Analysis, Research Methodologies, Research Design

Status: New

Status: Free Trial

Immersify

Interactive 3D Anatomy & Physiology: A Gamified Experience

Skills you'll gain: Respiration, Cardiology, Respiratory Care, Pulmonology, Clinical Nutrition, Anatomy, Nephrology, Orthopedics, Kinesiology, Medical Imaging, Patient Evaluation, Radiography, Urology, Electocardiography, Gynecology, General Medical Tests and Procedures, Radiology, Medical Terminology, Health Assessment, Biology

Biology Courses

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