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

Tel Aviv University

Understanding Plants - Part I: What a Plant Knows

Skills you'll gain: Scientific Methods, General Science and Research, Biology, Research, Life Sciences, Psychology, Environmental Science, Molecular Biology, Chemistry

University of Colorado Boulder

Biology Everywhere Foundations

Skills you'll gain: Biochemistry, Chemistry, Biology, General Science and Research, Life Sciences, Scientific Methods, Water Resources, Nutrition and Diet

Status: Free

The University of Chicago

Understanding the Brain: The Neurobiology of Everyday Life

Skills you'll gain: Neurology, Psychology, Kinesiology, Anatomy, Behavioral Health, Human Learning, Human Development, Blood Pressure, Mental and Behavioral Health, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Respiration, Vital Signs, Biology, Speech Language Pathology

Status: Free

Tel Aviv University

Understanding Plants - Part II: Fundamentals of Plant Biology

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biology, Anatomy, Food and Beverage, Laboratory Research, Nutrition and Diet, Environmental Science

University of North Texas

Contemporary Biology

Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Biology, Molecular Biology, Respiration, Microbiology, Environmental Science, General Science and Research, Experimentation

Rice University

Human Anatomy & Physiology I

Skills you'll gain: Anatomy, Orthopedics, Kinesiology, Neurology, Medical Terminology, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, Physical Therapy, Pathology, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Pharmacology, Radiography, Life Sciences

Status: Free

Duke University

Introductory Human Physiology

Skills you'll gain: Respiration, Anatomy, Pulmonology, Cardiology, Nephrology, Urology, Kinesiology, Vital Signs, Neurology, Biology, Nutrition and Diet, Gynecology

Status: Free

University of Manchester

Industrial Biotechnology

Skills you'll gain: Process Engineering, Molecular Biology, Chemical Engineering, Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Bioinformatics, Biology, Pharmaceuticals, Environmental Engineering, Manufacturing Processes, Process Development, Microbiology

Status: Free

University of Alberta

Paleontology: Ancient Marine Reptiles

Skills you'll gain: Biology, Ancient History, Life Sciences, Taxonomy

Status: Free

University of Leeds

Transmitting and Fighting Infectious Diseases

Skills you'll gain: Infectious Diseases, Microbiology, Infection Control, Pharmacology, Epidemiology, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Medical Science and Research

McMaster University

DNA Decoded

Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Medical Science and Research, Biochemistry, Laboratory Testing, Biology, Microbiology, Science and Research

Status: Free

Duke University

Medical Neuroscience

Skills you'll gain: Neurology, Anatomy, Medical Science and Research, Psychology, Pathology, Molecular Biology, Biology, Pharmacology

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