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: Environment, Life Sciences, Environmental Science, Microbiology, Environmental Issue, Biology, Estimation, Demography, Natural Resource Management, Biostatistics, Molecular Biology, Anatomy, Taxonomy, Data Collection, Laboratory Research, Infectious Diseases, Research Methodologies, Mathematical Modeling, Scientific Methods, Experimentation
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
223 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
Johns Hopkins University
Cancer Biology
Skills you'll gain: Oncology, Medical Imaging, Radiology, Urology, Clinical Trials, Patient Treatment, Treatment Planning, Preventative Care, Pharmaceuticals, Patient Evaluation, General Medical Tests and Procedures, Pathology, Precision Medicine, Patient Education and Support, Surgery, Epidemiology, Medical Terminology, Biology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
9.7K reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: New
Status: Preview
Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani
Introduction to Bioinformatics
Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Medical Science and Research, Data Science, Computational Thinking, Data Mining, Scientific Visualization, Unsupervised Learning, Correlation Analysis, Dimensionality Reduction, Markov Model, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Algorithms
Beginner · Course
Status: Preview
Duke University
Introductory Human Physiology
Skills you'll gain: Respiration, Anatomy, Cardiology, Neurology, Urology, Life Sciences, Vital Signs, Biology, Nutrition and Diet
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
5.3K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Duke University
Introduction to Genetics and Evolution
Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Life Sciences, Biology, Biostatistics, Taxonomy, Scientific Methods
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: Human Development, Molecular Biology, Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Environment, Biology, Chemistry, Environmental Science, Environmental Resource Management, General Science and Research, Decision Making, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Issue, Oncology, Research, Scientific Methods, Food and Beverage, Liberal Arts, Physical Science, Psychology
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
359 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

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Status: Preview
University of California San Diego
Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners
Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Computational Thinking, Molecular Biology, Program Development, Python Programming, Biology
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
1.6K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Preview
American Museum of Natural History
Marine Biology
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Science, Biology, Life Sciences, Environment, Environmental Issue, Natural Resource Management, Environmental Resource Management, Water Resources, Chemistry, Research Methodologies, Data Collection
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
542 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Johns Hopkins University
Introduction to the Biology of Cancer
Skills you'll gain: Oncology, Medical Imaging, Radiology, Clinical Trials, Treatment Planning, Pathology, Molecular Biology, Epidemiology, Anatomy, Biology
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
7.7K 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, Psychology, Anatomy, Behavioral Health, Human Learning, Non-Verbal Communication, Biology, Mental Health Diseases and Disorders, Basic Electrical Systems, Speech Language Pathology, Pharmacology
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
3.2K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Preview
Stanford University
RNA Biology with Eterna
Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Life Sciences, Biochemistry, Biology, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, Structural Analysis
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
138 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Preview
University of Geneva
Chemical Biology
Skills you'll gain: Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Laboratory Experience, Laboratory Testing, Biology, Chemistry, Scientific Visualization, Medical Imaging, Laboratory Equipment
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
153 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months