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

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

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Lactation Biology

Skills you'll gain: Anatomy, Obstetrics And Gynecology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Biology, Production Process, Nutrition and Diet, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Infectious Diseases

Status: Free Trial

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Experimental Methods in Systems Biology

Skills you'll gain: Quantitative Research, Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Data Analysis, Analytical Skills, Biochemistry, Experimentation, Laboratory Experience, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Systems Engineering, Life Sciences, Mathematical Modeling, Biology, Image Analysis, Laboratory Equipment

The University of Edinburgh

EDIVET: Do you have what it takes to be a veterinarian?

Skills you'll gain: Anatomy, Vital Signs, Respiration, Health Care, Caregiving, Health Systems, Health Assessment, Clinical Experience, Medical History Documentation, Cardiology, Biology, Practice Management

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Emergence of Life

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Physical Science, Biology, Taxonomy, World History, Environmental Science, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Scientific Methods, Chemistry

Status: Free Trial

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Network Analysis in Systems Biology

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Unsupervised Learning, Network Analysis, Data Analysis, Molecular Biology, Statistical Analysis, Machine Learning Algorithms, Biology, Data Processing, Data Integration, R Programming, Unix Commands

The University of Hong Kong

Implant Dentistry

Skills you'll gain: Dental Procedures, Dentistry, Treatment Planning, Surgical Suturing, Oral and Dental Care, Patient Evaluation, Dental Care, Patient Treatment, Surgery, Oral Health, Medical Equipment and Technology, Biology, Health Technology, Radiography, Emerging Technologies, Risk Analysis

Emory University

Biohacking Your Brain's Health

Skills you'll gain: Mental Concentration, Nutrition and Diet, Anatomy, Mental Health, Stress Management, Preventative Care, Neurology, Mindfulness, Behavioral Health, Cognitive flexibility, Biology

Universidad de los Andes

Sexualidad...mucho más que sexo

Skills you'll gain: Human Development, Self-Awareness, Cultural Sensitivity, Psychology, Sociology, Interpersonal Communications, Parent Communication, Discussion Facilitation, Biology

University of Cape Town

Large Marine Ecosystems: Assessment and Management

Skills you'll gain: Environment and Resource Management, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Management Systems, Environmental Science, Water Resources, Social Sciences, Environmental Policy, Governance, Environmental Monitoring, Socioeconomics, International Relations, Economics

Status: Free Trial

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Integrated Analysis in Systems Biology

Skills you'll gain: Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Analysis, Systems Analysis, Biology, Bioinformatics, Life Sciences, Data Analysis

Status: Free Trial

University of California San Diego

Bioinformatics Capstone: Big Data in Biology

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Life Sciences, Medical Science and Research, Precision Medicine, Structural Analysis

Biology Courses

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