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

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

University of Michigan

Sleep: Neurobiology, Medicine, and Society

Skills you'll gain: Mental Health, Psychiatry, Stress Management, Neurology, Mathematical Modeling, Patient Safety, Cardiology, Accident Prevention, Vital Signs, Pharmacology, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Biology

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

University of Michigan

AIDS: Fear and Hope

Skills you'll gain: Infectious Diseases, Health Disparities, Preventative Care, Public Health, Patient Education And Counseling, Medical Science and Research, Health Policy, Social Sciences, Microbiology, Cultural Diversity

Universidad de los Andes

Sexualidad...mucho más que sexo

Skills you'll gain: Human Development, Self-Awareness, Cultural Diversity, Sociology, Child Development, Psychology, Interpersonal Communications, Parent Communication, 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

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

Status: Free Trial

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Systems Biology and Biotechnology Capstone

Skills you'll gain: Data Synthesis, Network Analysis, Biology, Data Integration, Statistical Analysis, Biochemistry, Life Sciences, Bioinformatics, Laboratory Experience, Systems Integration, Molecular Biology, Systems Analysis, Research, Simulation and Simulation Software, Mathematical Modeling

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

The Pennsylvania State University

Dairy Production and Management

Skills you'll gain: Nutrition and Diet, Manufacturing and Production, Market Dynamics, Operating Cost, Business Economics, Water Resources, Production Management, Environmental Management Systems, Environment, Molecular Biology

Status: Free Trial

University of California San Diego

Drug Discovery

Skills you'll gain: Pharmaceuticals, Pharmacology, Clinical Research, Bioinformatics, New Product Development, Medical Science and Research, Regulatory Affairs, Molecular Biology, Market Opportunities, Innovation, Chemistry

University of Alberta

Mountains 101

Skills you'll gain: Environment, Physical Science, Biology, Water Resources, Environmental Monitoring, Cultural Diversity, Social Studies, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, Risk Management, Anthropology, World History

Biology Courses

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