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

Bioinformatic Methods I

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

University of Toronto

Plant Bioinformatic Methods

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Network Analysis, Research Reports, Molecular Biology, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Biology, Analysis, Data Analysis, Data Synthesis, Big Data, Statistical Methods, Data Visualization Software, Data Analysis Software, Data Mining, Experimentation, Scientific Visualization, Life Sciences, Interactive Data Visualization, Statistical Analysis, Databases

University of Toronto

Bioinformatic Methods II

Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Network Analysis, Data Analysis, Big Data, Data Visualization Software, Scientific Visualization, Structural Analysis

Status: Free

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

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Experimental Methods in Systems Biology

Skills you'll gain: Quantitative Research, Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Data Analysis, Analytical Skills, Biochemistry, Experimentation, Laboratory Experience, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Systems Engineering, Life Sciences, Mathematical Modeling, Biology, Image Analysis, Laboratory Equipment

Status: Free

University of Geneva

Classical papers in molecular genetics

Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biology, Life Sciences, Laboratory Research, Microbiology, Experimentation

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

Imperial College London

Immunology: Innate Immune System

Skills you'll gain: Infectious Diseases, Microbiology, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Environment, Biology, Research, Oncology

Status: Free

Universiteit Leiden

Biology Courses

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