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.

Best Biology Courses & Certificates Online [2025]

Find the Best Biology Course for Your Goals

Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Introduction to Biology: Ecology, Evolution, & Biodiversity
Skills you'll gain: Biology, Environment, Microbiology, Environmental Science, Life Sciences, Environmental Issue, Sustainable Development, Natural Resource Management, Physiology, Molecular Biology, Taxonomy, Cell Biology, Anatomy, Climate Change Adaptation, Estimation, Mathematical Modeling, Scientific Methods, Climate Change Mitigation, Experimentation, Case Studies
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
229 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
Johns Hopkins University
Cancer Biology
Skills you'll gain: Oncology, Medical Imaging, Patient Education And Counseling, Diagnostic Radiology, Radiation Therapy, Molecular Biology, Diagnostic Tests, Clinical Trials, Pain Management, Preventative Care, Treatment Planning, Urology, Patient Treatment, Immunology, Epidemiology, Surgery, Cell Biology, Care Management, Biology, Pathology
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
9.8K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Preview
Duke University
Introductory Human Physiology
Skills you'll gain: Physiology, Respiration, Endocrinology, Anatomy, Pulmonology, Cardiology, Nephrology, Urology, Kinesiology, Vital Signs, Neurology, Biology, Nutrition and Diet
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
5.3K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
The University of Chicago
Understanding the Brain: The Neurobiology of Everyday Life
Skills you'll gain: Neurology, Physiology, Anatomy, Behavioral Health, Mental and Behavioral Health, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Vital Signs, Control Systems, Coordination, Biology, Communication Systems
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
3.2K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Duke University
Introduction to Genetics and Evolution
Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Biology, Biostatistics, Biotechnology, Environmental Science, Scientific Methods, Mathematical Modeling
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.8K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Biology Everywhere
Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Human Development, Biology, Environment, Chemistry, Cell Biology, Environmental Issue, Child Development, Environmental Science, Life Sciences, Environmental Resource Management, Music, Biotechnology, General Science and Research, Decision Making, Natural Resource Management, Liberal Arts, Oncology, Sustainable Development
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
364 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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Status: Free Trial
Johns Hopkins University
Introduction to the Biology of Cancer
Skills you'll gain: Oncology, Medical Imaging, Diagnostic Radiology, Molecular Biology, Clinical Trials, Radiation Therapy, Cell Biology, Treatment Planning, Pathology, Epidemiology, Biology, Risk Analysis, Surgery
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
7.7K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
American Museum of Natural History
Marine Biology
Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Biology, Environmental Science, Environment, Biochemistry, Physiology, Hydrology, Environmental Issue, Anatomy, Water Quality, Behavioral Health, Research
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
560 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
University of California San Diego
Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners
Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Programming Principles, Python Programming, Computational Thinking, Biology, Data Structures
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
1.6K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Human Anatomy & Physiology I
Skills you'll gain: Human Musculoskeletal System, Anatomy, Endocrinology, Orthopedics, Kinesiology, Physiology, Neurology, Medical Terminology, Cell Biology, Biology, Chemistry, Clinical Practices, Sports Medicine, Physical Therapy, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Life Sciences, Lifelong Learning
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
142 reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Preview
University of North Texas
Contemporary Biology
Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Environment, Environmental Science, General Science and Research, Chemistry, Experimentation
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
94 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Preview
University of Geneva
Chemical Biology
Skills you'll gain: Biochemistry, Biochemical Assays, Fluoroscopy, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Chemistry, Biotechnology, Laboratory Research, Scientific Visualization, Biology, Specimen Labeling
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
159 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months