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 Colorado Boulder

Engineering Genetic Circuits

Skills you'll gain: Markov Model, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, Mathematical Modeling, Electrical Engineering, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Failure Analysis, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Design Process, Systems Design, Simulations, Biochemistry, Computational Thinking, Computational Logic, Systems Analysis, Differential Equations, Software Visualization, Chemical Engineering, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Research Design

Status: Free Trial

Rice University

Fundamentals of Immunology: Dueling with Pathogens and Cancer

Skills you'll gain: Infectious Diseases, Preventative Care, Public Health, Oncology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Pharmacology, Biology, Emerging Technologies

Status: Free Trial

Rice University

Anatomy & Physiology: Filtration and Reproduction

Skills you'll gain: Maternal Health, Obstetrics And Gynecology, Urology, Anatomy, Gynecology, Pathology, Patient Evaluation, Biology, Medical Terminology

Status: Free Trial

Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México

Charles Darwin: El origen del evolucionismo moderno

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Biology, European History, Higher Education, Taxonomy, Scientific Methods

Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)

Signaling actions of small molecules

Skills you'll gain: Biochemistry, Pharmacology, Molecular Biology, Life Sciences, Blood Pressure, Medical Science and Research, Biology, Microbiology, Oncology

Status: Free Trial

University of California San Diego

Finding Mutations in DNA and Proteins (Bioinformatics VI)

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Markov Model, Molecular Biology, Machine Learning Methods, Computational Thinking, Algorithms, Computer Programming Tools, Data Structures, Probability & Statistics

The University of Edinburgh

Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science

Skills you'll gain: Discussion Facilitation, Research, Cultural Diversity, Science and Research, Systems Thinking, Anthropology, Physics, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Biology

Status: Free Trial

University of Michigan

Addressing Racial Health Inequity in Healthcare

Skills you'll gain: Health Disparities, Health Equity, Social Justice, Community Health, Public Health, Health Systems, Health Policy, Health Care, Diversity Equity and Inclusion Initiatives, Social Sciences, Health Care Procedure and Regulation, Sociology, Healthcare Industry Knowledge, Diversity Awareness, Healthcare Ethics, Cultural Diversity, Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI), Socioeconomics, Cultural Responsiveness, Biology

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Introduction to Cannabis

Skills you'll gain: Chemistry, Taxonomy, Production Process, Good Manufacturing Practices, Pharmacology, Biology, Research, Environmental Regulations

University of Colorado Boulder

Primate Conservation

Skills you'll gain: Natural Resource Management, Environmental Science, Environment, Risk Analysis, Biology, Community Outreach, Taxonomy, Anthropology

Technion - Israel Institute of Technology

Nanotechnology and Nanosensors, Part 2

Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Innovation, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, Emerging Technologies, Laboratory Testing, Electrical Engineering, Precision Medicine, Electronic Systems, Electronic Components, Laboratory Research, Manufacturing Processes

Status: Free

University of Virginia

Bacterial Bioinformatics

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Scientific Visualization, Taxonomy, Command-Line Interface, Data Integration, Data Import/Export, Data Storage, File Management

Biology Courses

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