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

University of Toronto

Data Visualization for Genome Biology

Skills you'll gain: Data Visualization Software, Statistical Visualization, Interactive Data Visualization, Bioinformatics, Ggplot2, Dimensionality Reduction, Scatter Plots, R Programming, Network Analysis, Heat Maps, Molecular Biology, Design Thinking

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado Boulder

Specialty Topics: Biology Across Disciplines

Skills you'll gain: Human Development, Biology, Child Development, Music, Decision Making, Liberal Arts, Life Sciences, Education and Training, Psychology, Science and Research, Business Economics, Clinical Trials

Status: Free Trial

Rice University

Introduction to Biology: Evolution

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Biology, Taxonomy, Anatomy, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Scientific Methods, Research

Nanjing University

结构生物化学（Structural Biochemistry)

Skills you'll gain: Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Laboratory Testing, Pharmacology, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Laboratory Research, Bioinformatics, Structural Analysis, Chemistry, Biology, Life Sciences, Mathematical Modeling

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München (LMU)

Circadian clocks: how rhythms structure life

Skills you'll gain: Biology, Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Medical Science and Research, Health Care, Pharmacology, Chronic Diseases, Psychology, Behavioral Health, Environment, Pathology

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 California San Diego

Finding Hidden Messages in DNA (Bioinformatics I)

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Data Analysis, Computational Thinking, Biochemistry, Biology, Life Sciences, Algorithms, Probability & Statistics

The University of Edinburgh

Animal Behaviour and Welfare

Skills you'll gain: Behavior Management, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Qualitative Research, Healthcare Ethics, Environmental Issue, Scientific Methods, Biology

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

New York University

Engineering Health: Introduction to Yoga and Physiology

Skills you'll gain: Respiratory Care, Mindfulness, Respiration, Physical Therapy, Stress Management, Pulmonology, Research, Cardiology, General Science and Research, Kinesiology, Orthopedics, Biology, Preventative Care, Health Assessment, Vital Signs, Anatomy, Chronic Diseases, Neurology, Mental Health

The University of Melbourne

Epigenetic Control of Gene Expression

Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Precision Medicine, Life Sciences, Oncology, Environment, Biology, Medical Science and Research, Pharmacology, Experimentation, Nutrition and Diet

Status: Free Trial

Rice University

Anatomy & Physiology: Levels of Organization

Skills you'll gain: Anatomy, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Medical Terminology, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology

Biology Courses

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