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

The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

The Science of Gastronomy

Skills you'll gain: Food and Beverage, Nutrition and Diet, Scientific Methods, Experimentation, Color Theory, Chemistry, Research Design, Psychology, Biology

Status: Free Trial

Olay

Introduction to Cosmetic and Skincare Science

Skills you'll gain: Product Testing, Laboratory Testing, Personal Care, Safety Assurance, Chemistry, Microbiology, Biology, Product Development, Regulatory Compliance, Innovation

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

University of Arizona

Astrobiology: Exploring Other Worlds

Skills you'll gain: Biology, Biochemistry, Life Sciences, Chemistry, Physical Science, Research, Environment, Experimentation, Environmental Science, Physics, Scientific Methods, Science and Research, Microbiology

Status: Free Trial

MedCerts

The Human Body's Communication Systems

Skills you'll gain: Medical Terminology, Neurology, General Medical Tests and Procedures, Pathology, Medical Records, Health Information Management and Medical Records, Anatomy, Biology

Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona

Women in environmental biology

Skills you'll gain: Environment, Environmental Science, Social Justice, Environmental Issue, Biology, Natural Resource Management, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Social Studies, Diversity Awareness, Science and Research

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

The Little Stuff: Energy, Cells, and Genetics

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Biology, Oncology, Biochemistry, Environmental Science, Medical Science and Research, Precision Medicine, Healthcare Ethics, Emerging Technologies

Status: Free Trial

University of Michigan

Anatomy: Cardiovascular, Respiratory and Urinary Systems

Skills you'll gain: Pulmonology, Cardiology, Respiration, Anatomy, Urology, Vital Signs, Medical Terminology, Biology

University of Colorado Boulder

Gut Check: Exploring Your Microbiome

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

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Engineering Genetic Circuits: Design

Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Electrical Engineering, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Engineering Design Process, Systems Design, Bioinformatics, Biochemistry, Research Design, Biology, Computational Logic, Control Systems, Experimentation, Laboratory Experience, Technical Standard, Design Software

Status: Free Trial

University of Toronto

Bioinformatic Methods I

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Biology, Data Analysis Software, Data Mining, Life Sciences, Analysis, Statistical Analysis, Databases

Status: Free Trial

Rice University

Medical Terminology II

Skills you'll gain: Medical History Documentation, Medical Terminology, Pulmonology, Cardiology, Medical Records, Health Informatics, Anatomy, Pathology, Pharmacology

Biology Courses

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