Free Online Basic Science Courses & MOOCs

Coursera

University of Colorado Boulder

The Big Stuff: Evolution and Ecology (Coursera)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences Health & Society

Dive deep into the fundamental processes that shape life on Earth with 'The Big Stuff: Evolution and Ecology'. This course unravels the mysteries of evolution, explores the incredible diversity of life, highlights the significance of biodiversity, delves into ecology's intricate web, and addresses pressing conservation challenges. Whether you're a student, educator, or lifelong learner, this course offers valuable insights into our natural world.

Nov 2nd 2026

4 Weeks

Health Biology Evolution

Coursera

University of Michigan

Translating Basic Research into Research for Humans (Coursera)

Health & Society

Dive into the world of translational medicine with our course 'Translating Basic Research into Research for Humans.' Explore how groundbreaking scientific discoveries are translated into real-world health applications, including innovative approaches in drug development, repurposing existing medications, and conducting animal studies. This course is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of T1 research, focusing on the critical steps from basic science to controlled clinical settings.

Nov 2nd 2026

3 Weeks

Clinical Research Translational Research Coursera Plus

Coursera

Duke University

Introduction to Genetics and Evolution (Coursera)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences

Explore the fascinating world of genetics and evolution with our beginner-friendly course. Designed for those new to biology, this college-level class offers an insightful overview into principles governing these essential areas of life sciences. Learn about DNA, genetic inheritance, evolutionary processes, and how they shape the living world around us.

Oct 26th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Science Biology Life

Coursera

Tel Aviv University

Understanding Plants - Part I: What a Plant Knows (Coursera)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences

Dive into the captivating realm of botany with 'Understanding Plants - Part I: What a Plant Knows'. This course unravels the mysteries of how plants interact with their environment, revealing that they are not just passive organisms but active participants in their ecosystems. Explore cutting-edge research and learn about plant perception, communication, and responses to stimuli.

Oct 26th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Biology Genetics Photosynthesis

Coursera

Tel Aviv University

Understanding Plants - Part II: Fundamentals of Plant Biology (Coursera)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences

Dive into the fascinating realm of botany with 'Understanding Plants - Part II: Fundamentals of Plant Biology'. This online course unravels the secrets behind how plants function, grow, and interact with their environment. From cellular structures to complex processes like photosynthesis and genetic modification, this course is designed for anyone eager to understand the science behind plant life.

Oct 26th 2026

4 Weeks

Biology Genetic Engineering Photosynthesis

Coursera

Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität München

Circadian clocks: how rhythms structure life (Coursera)

Health & Society

Dive into the intriguing science behind circadian rhythms with 'Circadian Clocks: How Rhythms Structure Life'. This course unravels the biological mechanisms that control our internal clocks, influencing everything from sleep patterns to metabolism. Ideal for aspiring biologists and those passionate about how biology impacts daily life.

Oct 26th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Health Biology Chronobiology

Coursera

Universiteit Utrecht

Clinical Epidemiology (Coursera)

Health & Society Medicine & Pharmacology

Dive into the world of modern medicine with our Clinical Epidemiology course. Gain insights into evidence-based practices and learn how clinical research guides health professionals towards effective solutions for daily practice challenges. This course will teach you to translate medical issues into a research setting using established methods, all while keeping a clinical perspective.

Oct 20th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Health Diagnosis Clinical Research

Coursera

National Research Tomsk State University

The Changing Arctic (Coursera)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences

Dive into 'The Changing Arctic' course to gain a profound understanding of the Arctic's landscapes, their origins, and the dramatic transformations they are undergoing. This course explores the collaborative efforts of scientists worldwide to predict the impact these changes will have on northern communities and the global community at large. Experience a blend of scientific topics, cutting-edge research methods, and current views on the future of our planet's coldest regions.

Aug 1st 2022

5-12 Weeks

Health Atmosphere Ice

Coursera

National Research Tomsk State University

Ecology: from cells to Gaia (Coursera)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences

Explore the fascinating world of Ecology with our 'Ecology: From Cells to Gaia' course. Delve into the fundamental principles of evolution and ecology, designed for both curious citizens and aspiring students of biology and environmental science. Gain insights into major concepts and cutting-edge research that have energized these fields, providing a toolkit for all biologists and informed individuals.

Jul 18th 2022

5-12 Weeks

Biology Evolution Analysis