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

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

Imperial College London

Immunology: Immune System and Infectious Diseases

Skills you'll gain: Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology, Microbiology, Biology, Public Health, Molecular Biology

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

Status: Free

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

The Chinese University of Hong Kong

Fundamental Human Physiology in Sports Medicine

Skills you'll gain: Pulmonology, Respiration, Cardiology, Anatomy, Kinesiology, Orthopedics, Neurology, Biology

Status: Free

The University of Edinburgh

Understanding Obesity

Skills you'll gain: Scientific Methods, Student-Centred Learning, Health Disparities, Research, Nutrition and Diet, Behavioral Health, Peer Review, Social Sciences, Psychology, Stress Management, Economics, Biology, Neurology

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

University of Copenhagen

Bacteria and Chronic Infections

Skills you'll gain: Microbiology, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Biology, Pathology, Pharmacology

Status: Free

The University of Edinburgh

Philosophy, Science and Religion: Science and Philosophy

Skills you'll gain: Research, Scientific Methods, Science and Research, General Science and Research, Biology, Systems Thinking, Anthropology, Cultural Responsiveness, Psychology, Sociology

Status: Free

University of Florida

The Horse Course: Introduction to Basic Care and Management

Skills you'll gain: Obstetrics And Gynecology, Nutrition and Diet, Preventative Care, Care Management, Behavior Management, Anatomy, Vital Signs, Health Assessment, Infectious Diseases, First Aid, Biology, Communication

Rice University

Fundamentals of Immunology: Innate Immunity and B-Cell Function

Skills you'll gain: Public Health, Anatomy, Molecular Biology, Infectious Diseases, Medical Terminology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biology, Laboratory Testing

Status: Free

Caltech

The Science of the Solar System

Skills you'll gain: Science and Research, Research, Physical Science, Scientific Methods, Life Sciences, Physics, Water Resources, Advanced Mathematics, Chemistry, Environment, Biology

Biology Courses

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Find the Best Biology Course for Your Goals

Circadian clocks: how rhythms structure life