online biology class

• Online Degree Explore Bachelor’s & Master’s degrees
• MasterTrack™ Earn credit towards a Master’s degree
• University Certificates Advance your career with graduate-level learning
• Top Courses
• Join for Free

Learn Biology Online

Whether you're just starting out or already have some experience, we offer various Biology courses designed to fit your needs. Curated from top educational institutions and industry leaders, our selection of Biology courses aims to provide quality training for everyone—from individual learners seeking personal growth to corporate teams looking to upskill. For those pursuing professional advancement, skill acquisition, or even a new career path, these Biology courses can be a valuable resource. Take the next step in your professional journey and enroll in a Biology course today!

Browse Biology Courses

Duke University

Introduction to Genetics and Evolution

(1.5k reviews)

Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Introductory Human Physiology

Skills you'll gain : Health

(4.7k reviews)

Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

The University of Chicago

Understanding the Brain: The Neurobiology of Everyday Life

(2.7k reviews)

University of Michigan

Skills you'll gain : Human Learning

(3.6k reviews)

Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

American Museum of Natural History

Marine Biology

(82 reviews)

The Science of Stem Cells

Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Johns Hopkins University

Cancer Biology

(9k reviews)

University of Colorado Boulder

Biology Everywhere

(256 reviews)

University of California San Diego

Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners

Skills you'll gain : Bioinformatics, Computational Thinking, Problem Solving, Biostatistics, Computational Logic, Critical Thinking

Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

Introduction to Forensic Science

(2.2k reviews)

Rice University

Introduction to Biology: Ecology, Evolution, & Biodiversity

(77 reviews)

Medical Neuroscience

Advanced · Course · 3 - 6 Months

Searches related to biology

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular biology courses.

• Introduction to Genetics and Evolution :   Duke University
• Introductory Human Physiology :   Duke University
• Understanding the Brain: The Neurobiology of Everyday Life :   The University of Chicago
• Anatomy :   University of Michigan
• Marine Biology :   American Museum of Natural History
• The Science of Stem Cells :   American Museum of Natural History
• Cancer Biology :   Johns Hopkins University
• Biology Everywhere :   University of Colorado Boulder
• Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners :   University of California San Diego
• Introduction to Forensic Science :   Nanyang Technological University, Singapore

Frequently Asked Questions about Biology

What is biology, and why is it important to learn ‎.

Many people have an awareness of Biology at its simplest: The science of life. It sounds pretty broad, but this essential discipline can get very specific—because it covers living matter in all its forms and phenomena, learners can get into the nitty-gritty of the origin, growth, reproduction, structure, and behavior of people, animals, plants, and microorganisms.

There are many critical reasons for learners to study Biology and take advantage of its endless need for research, such as finding solutions for disease prevention, increasing reproductive capabilities, improving mental health, understanding the science of food, shaping public health policies, and an extensive scope of other reasons. With knowledge of how living things function, scientists under the umbrella of Biology can make great contributions to medicine and other key ways to improve the quality of life for living things.

Biology is often studied in conjunction with other sciences, such as Anatomy, Chemistry, Engineering, Physics, Psychology, and even social sciences. ‎

What jobs can you get in Biology? ‎

It can’t be overstated that a degree in Biology is highly versatile, thanks to its usefulness in a myriad of industries and other fields. Besides Biologist, learners can enjoy such opportunities as Research Scientist, Pharmacologist, Ecologist, Nature Conservationist, Officer, Zoologist, Botanist, Marine Biologist, Microbiologist, Biotechnologist, Forensic Scientist, Science Writer, Teacher, Professor, roles in government agencies, and countless other careers. ‎

How can online courses help you learn Biology? ‎

Biology courses offered through Coursera cover a range of subject matter, from basic biological principles to Immunology topics taught by Biology lecturers. Learners can explore practical applications like genome sequences; commercial kits that tell you about your ancestry; debates about evolution; why animals behave the way they do; the molecular biology of cancer; how people have found genetic evidence for natural selection; and many more. ‎

What skills or experience do I need to already have, before starting to learn about biology? ‎

You can study biology without any previous experience or skills, but a background in science may help you better understand it. Previous courses or experience in topics like zoology, microbiology, biochemistry, chemistry, physics, ecology, and genetics can be especially helpful. A strong math background is also good to have if you want to study biology. Jobs or internships in the scientific field can help prepare you for studying biology as well. Even volunteer work can help start you on your path towards learning about biology. This could include experience in labs, research institutions, hospitals, doctors' offices, zoos, aquariums, private companies, government agencies, and museums. ‎

What kind of people are best suited for roles in biology? ‎

People with a passion for science are well-suited to study biology, but there is more to the subject than simply learning about life and living organisms. Those who study biology should be good at math and be able to pay close attention to detail. You'll find yourself having to think analytically, but you'll also need to be good with your hands when you're in the field. Those who study or pursue a career in biology should have good written and verbal communication skills so they can share their research and discoveries with others. ‎

How do I know if learning biology right for me? ‎

Learning biology is right for you if you're interested in science and want to open yourself up to hundreds, if not thousands, of professional opportunities. As one of broadest branches of science, knowledge of biology can lead to numerous careers. You could find yourself working in a lab, research institution, or university. You could go on to become a medical professional for either humans or animals. You may find yourself working for a private company or a government agency. You may even find yourself teaching biology or reporting on scientific advancements as a journalist. No matter what you choose to do with your biology education, you will likely find yourself working full- or part-time doing hands-on fieldwork. ‎

What are the benefits of taking an online Biology course? ‎

Online Biology courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your existing knowledge or learn new Biology skills. With a wide range of Biology classes, you can conveniently learn at your own pace to advance your Biology career skills. ‎

What Biology courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce? ‎

Coursera's entire course catalog is offered to Enterprise customers with no limitations. Choosing the best Biology course depends on your employees' needs and skill levels. Leverage our Skills Dashboard to understand skill gaps and determine the most suitable course for upskilling your workforce effectively. Learn more about Coursera for Business here . ‎

Learn biology

What is biology.

Biology is the study of life. This includes all living organisms from the simplest to the most complex. The anatomy, development, chemical characteristics, genetics, and evolution of a species are all part of the science of biology. And there are many biology subdisciplines, including biochemistry, genomics, physiology, ecology, and medicine.

Browse online Biology courses

Stand out in your field, learn at your own pace, earn a valuable credential, related topics,  biology course curriculum.

The study of biology starts with the cell, the basic building block of any living organism. Understanding the structure, function, and life cycle of a cell is fundamental to the study of all biological sciences. Building a strong foundational knowledge of cellular biology may help learners branch out into different biological areas or specializations. 

For learners at the beginner level, an introductory biology course may cover:

Genotypes and phenotypes

Enzyme function and regulations

Cell structure and function

Protein synthesis

Bodily systems

Learn how to use molecular tools to study biology, how to describe the building blocks of life, and how their interactions dictate structure and function in biology. Explore the mysteries of biochemistry, genetics, and molecular biology with more advanced courses that delve deeper into specialized topics.

Jobs in biology

An interest in biology can take learners down many career paths. Individuals can focus on plants, animals, or humans in careers that span all types of industries. 

Potential careers that use biology include:

Doctor or nurse

Medical researcher

Epidemiologist

Sociologist

Whether you see yourself working in a hospital helping patients or studying plants and animals in the jungle, learning biology can set you down an exciting new career path. Start your learning journey today.

More opportunities for you to learn

We've added 500+ learning opportunities to create one of the world's most comprehensive free-to-degree online learning platforms.

Executive Education

Master's degrees, bachelor's degrees.

Last updated December 2022

ASU Universal Learner® Courses

How it works

Earned Admission learners

High school learners

Transfer students and gap year learners

GPA calculator

Technical requirements

Certificates

English Language

Learner Support

Accessibility

Partner with us

For organizations

For high schools

• Skip to main content
• Report an accessibility problem
• Colleges and Schools

Online Biology

BIO 100 - The Living World

Can we find life elsewhere in the Universe? This is one of the big questions at the forefront of scientific endeavor. It compels us to explore our celestial neighborhood, searching for signs of life in the Solar System and Earth-like planets beyond. In The Living World, you will learn about the search for life as you master concepts in general biology, including key aspects of biodiversity, evolution, cellular biology, molecular biology, ecology, and human anatomy and physiology.

Course prerequisites and requirements

To be successful in this course, we recommend English language fluency and computer literacy. We also encourage you to make sure your laptop or desktop computer meets the technical requirements .

Quick facts

Next start date:

Jan. 09, 2024 (16 weeks)

Mar. 05, 2024 (8 weeks)

• Credits:  4
• Length:  Self-paced, 8 or 16 weeks
• Cost:  $25 + $400

What you’ll learn

• Evolution: The diversity of life changed and diversified over time by processes of mutation, selection, and isolation
• Structure and Function: Basic units of structure establish the function of all living things
• Information Flow, Exchange, and Storage: The macro and microscopic features of organisms result from the expression of genetic information in context
• Pathways of Energy and Matter: Biological systems are built and maintained by chemical transformation pathways that are governed by the laws of thermodynamics
• Biological Systems: Living systems are interconnected and interacting
• Nature of Science: Science proceeds by developing and testing explanations for patterns observed in nature

What to expect in class

The Living World is an innovative course with a format different from most online courses. It is built around interactive activities with rich adaptive feedback. These are not videos or simple readings and quizzes. Usually they are problem-solving activities through which you will be introduced to key concepts, and master them, in a question-driven 'learn-by-doing' approach. Often they will be designed around game-like simulations that you can manipulate, or virtual field trips that you can explore. In some ways, these activities can feel like a serious game! That's not an accident: that's in fact how the pursuit of science feels to professional scientists.

All activities and assessments occur within the interactive BioBeyond Learnspace, which includes modules and associated point values.

Exams and grading

Biology Bootcamp

World Biodiversity Expedition

Journey to the Galapagos

Time Traveler’s Guide to Life on Earth

Into the Cell

Searching for Signatures

Blue Planet

A Mission Beyond

This course appears on your transcript identically to how it appears on the transcript of an enrolled ASU student who has taken the course on one of ASU’s campuses. Course attendance dates will be listed on your transcript. A self paced course will appear on your transcript in the session you complete the course.

This course includes a lab and satisfies 4 credit hours toward the Natural Science - Quantitative (SQ) General Studies requirement at Arizona State University. It is strongly encouraged that you consult with your institution of choice to determine how these credits will be applied to their degree requirements prior to transferring your credit.

Faculty and course staff

Ledesma-barrera.

Instructor,

School of Life Sciences Cellular and Molecular Biosciences

Arizona State University

Instructional Professional,

Learning Enterprise

Why take ASU Universal Learner Courses

Related courses, asm 246 - human origins, bio 130 - introduction to environmental science, related programs, online bs biological sciences, online bs geography.

Have questions? We’ve got the answers. Ask away!

Business hours for phone and chat Monday - Friday 7am - 6pm MST

ULC terms of use

Biology Courses

• Social Sciences

Quantitative Methods for Biology

Learn introductory programming and data analysis in MATLAB, with applications to biology and medicine.

Super-Earths and Life

Learn about the Earth, life, and how we can search for life elsewhere in the universe.

Food Fermentation: The Science of Cooking with Microbes

Explore the roles that microbes play in the production, preservation, and enhancement of diverse foods in a variety of culinary traditions, and learn about the history of food fermentations.

Cell Biology: Mitochondria

A human-centered approach to the fundamentals of cell biology with a focus on the power plants of the cell - mitochondria.

Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 1: The Electrical Properties of the Neuron

Learn how electricity makes the neurons in your brain tick.

Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 3: The Brain

Discover what makes your brain tick in this third course in our introductory series in neuroscience.

Bioethics: The Law, Medicine, and Ethics of Reproductive Technologies and Genetics

An introduction to the study of bioethics and the application of legal and ethical reasoning.

Fundamentals of Neuroscience, Part 2: Neurons and Networks

Discover how neurons work together to create complex networks inside the brain.

Human Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Cases

Learn the anatomy basic to understanding five musculoskeletal injuries commonly seen in primary care medicine and orthopedic clinical specialty practice. Follow hypothetical patients from injury to operating room.

Cell Biology

This course cultivates an understanding of eukaryotic cellular and subcellular structure, with close attention to structure/function relationships that govern cellular processes at the molecular level

Epigenetics, Epitranscriptomics, and Gene Regulation

This course is designed to introduce students to the field of epigenetics and epitranscriptomics, and gene regulatory mechanisms that occur without changes in the underlying DNA sequence.

Clinical Anatomy and Physiology I

This course is an immersive introduction to human anatomy and physiology from a clinical perspective. Students gain a functional understanding of the systems of the body and the structure and function of the tissues that comprise them.

RNA Biology and Therapeutics

RNA molecules can store and transfer genetic information, as well as regulate cellular processes through enzymatic activity and their interaction with other biomolecules

MalariaX: Defeating Malaria from the Genes to the Globe

How can we eradicate malaria? Explore cutting-edge science and technology, and examine policies needed, to control and eliminate malaria.

Case Studies in Functional Genomics

Perform RNA-Seq, ChIP-Seq, and DNA methylation data analyses, using open source software, including R and Bioconductor.

• Register Now Register (link opens in new window)
• Request Info Request Info

100% Online, Self-Paced Courses

Biol 1010: biology i lecture & lab, biology i lecture & lab course overview.

• Biology I Lecture & Lab, BIOL 1010, is an online four-credit lecture/lab biology course incorporating an at-home laboratory component. The emphasis of the course is on providing a conceptual framework for understanding the basics of modern biology so that the student will be well equipped to apply this knowledge in his or her further studies. * This course is considered an upper-level undergraduate course (300 level or above)

Biology I Lecture & Lab Course Outcomes

• Demonstrate knowledge of the basic content of the discipline
• Discuss and demonstrate how scientists solve problems in the discipline
• Evaluate the validity of scientific arguments
• Apply knowledge to scientific problems
• Ask a question and develop a hypothesis that can be tested
• Plan and conduct an investigation to test a hypothesis
• Analyze data and apply scientific ideas to evaluate the strength of a hypothesis
• Communicate results of scientific experiments by basing conclusions on valid and reliable evidence

Biology I Lecture & Lab Course Prerequisites

• There are no prerequisites for Biology I Lecture & Lab, BIOL 1010.

How do exams work?

All exams are taken online. Major exams are required to be proctored online through ProctorU. For instructions on how to take your exams online, visit UNE Online’s ProctorU site . Please note exams must also be proctored with the UNE-approved external webcam.

How do labs work?

For the laboratory portion of the course, most weeks will also have an assigned laboratory exercise. Assessment for each lab lesson will be the questions that are listed throughout each lesson. In addition to conducting the laboratory exercises and taking the assessment, you will also need to write a lab report.

BIOL 1010: Lecture/Lab

• Tuition: $1,640
• Registration: $30
• Total: $1,670*

*Total payment is due in full at the time of registration. The cost of the materials is not included in this total.

Required course materials

• SPHP courses require the use of the UNE-approved external webcam for all proctored exams. The UNE-approved whiteboard is optional dependent on the course. (Webcam & Whiteboard Ordering Information)
• Biology, 6th edition by Brooker, Widmair, Graham and Stiling (e-book)
• This ebook can be purchased directly in your course upon your course start date.
• Note: Please note if planning to enroll in BIOL 1011: Biology II upon completion of this course, the e-book can be used for that course as well.
• All lab materials are purchased through your course. Please be aware that costs vary for each course and can range from $100- $500+.

Your Dedicated Student Service Advisor

If you have any questions about registration, the coursework or course requirements, please reach out to one of our student support team members using live chat(see bottom right) or email below.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

Bringing the World's Best Biology to You

Free Interactive Online Courses

From designing experiments to effective science communication to professional development, we offer a bevy of self-paced online courses to help you plan your career and build critical research skills. Sign up today for our free platform and join a community of thousands of early career scientists, students and educators in biology!

Comprehensive Series

Lectures and labs cover light microscopy from basic to advanced techniques.

Short Microscopy Series

If you are new to microscopy, this is the course for you!

Bioimage Analysis

Follow the lifecycle of a bioimage data set from acquisition to analysis.

• Flipped Courses

Flip your classroom! In these courses, students can explore a topic in biology by watching our videos as homework and class time can be dedicated to in-depth discussion and problem-based learning. The research talks are available to everyone. Assessments for use in the classroom are available only to registered educators ( register here – it is free!).

• Cell Biology

Learn about the origin of cellular structure, the structure and function of macromolecules, and how cells move and divide.

Engineering Life

How did life evolve? How can we understand the principles of biological systems to create new proteins, chemicals, cells and tissues?

Principles of evolutionary biology including natural selection, multicellularity, co-evolution of prey and predators, and how viruses constantly evolve.

Explores key concepts from fundamentals of the inflammatory response, B and T cell development, autoimmunity, to plant immunology.

Want more educator resources and science films?

Find a video.

• Search All Talks
• Search YouTube
• Short Films
• All Playlists
• All Speakers

Best of iBiology

• CRISPR-Cas Technology
• Meselson and Stahl
• Archaea and the Tree of Life
• Bench to Bedside
• Famous Discoveries
• Share Your Research
• Biochemistry
• Bioengineering
• Development and Stem Cells
• Genetics and Gene Regulation
• Human Disease
• Microbiology
• Neuroscience
• Plant Biology

Most Popular

• Molecular Motor Proteins
• Origin of Life on Earth
• Ten Craziest Things Cells Do
• Mitochondria Mysteries
• Sexual vs Asexual Reproduction
• Intro to Virus Ecology and Evolution

Free Courses

• Free Online Courses
• Take a Free Course
• Learn Microscopy
• Intro to Microscopy

Career Development

• Professional Development Courses
• Professional Development Talks
• Career Exploration
• Biomedical Workforce
• NRMN Resources

For Educators

• Educator Newsletter
• Educator Resources
• Sign Up for Free
• Search All Resources

Educators Recommend

• Semi-Conservative Replication of DNA
• Cells of the Immune System
• Discovering Cell Cycle Regulators
• Genome Engineering with CRISPR-Cas9
• Toll-Like Receptors in Adaptive Immunity
• Hardy-Weinberg Equilibrium
• Next Generation Sequencing
• Our Mission
• Science Communication Lab
• Financial Conflict of Interest Policy

Biology courses

Learn how plants, animals and humans work by taking an online biology course.

Introduction to Biology

Begin your path towards a career in biology, health or other science-related industries.

The online biology courses available through us explore the building blocks of life on earth—from genetics, cell structures and molecular biology through to marine science and human evolution.

Start by comparing what’s available with leading universities below. You can study a one-off subject in an area of biology that interests you, or major in biology as part of a full science qualification.

Whatever you choose, we can provide advice on entry requirements, flexible study options and course fees.

Discover biology courses

Online biology subjects and short courses.

Undergraduate | USA-BIOL1052

Foundations of Human Biology 1

100% online

No ATAR required. Start with a subject.

Starts 01 Apr 2024, 16 Sep 2024

Non-Award | CUR-UNR06

Introduction to Health Sciences

Starts 26 Feb 2024, 26 Aug 2024

Undergraduate | TAS-CAD101

Introduction to Ageing, the Brain and Dementia

Starts 26 Feb 2024, 04 Nov 2024

Undergraduate | LTU-PSY1BNB

Introduction To Behavioural Neuroscience 1B

Starts 29 Jul 2024

Online biology degrees

Undergraduate | MAQ-BSC-DEG

Bachelor of Science

Learn from international leaders in science

Benefit from the guidance of teachers whose research findings are known on a global scale. Use this research to conduct case studies. Take a hands-on approach with a lab component. Specialise in biology, including genetics, genes and life processes.

Online & on-campus

3 years full time or part time equivalent

Available majors

• Core Zone: Major in Biology ,  

Undergraduate | SCU-SCI-DIP

Diploma of Science

A pathway to the lab or further science studies

An online science course with specialisations in forestry, marine, or Earth and environmental systems. You’ll explore chemistry, physics, biology and geology. Think about the role science plays solving big issues like climate change and pollution. 

1 year full time or part time equivalent

Undergraduate | TAS-SFS-ADG

Associate Degree in Applied Science (Fermentation and Separation)

Learn the science behind food and drink production

Want to create innovative products in the food and beverage space? This specialised course will give you the knowledge you need to excel in brewing, winemaking or food fermentation. You’ll study key areas like microbiology, chemistry and quality management.

2 years full time or part time equivalent

Postgraduate | ECU-BIO-MAS

Master of Bioinformatics

Harness bioinformatics in a real-life industry project

Hone skills in working with complex data sets – combining biology, computer science and information engineering. Work on a project under the eyes of an industry professional. Make workplace connections. Become a bioinformatition or informatician.

Discover 86 ways to study biology with leading Australian universities.

Need help choosing the right course?

Our student advisors are here to guide you with expert advice on:

• Enrolling and planning your studies
• Finding a study option that suits your needs
• Understanding your funding options

When would you like to chat?

Let me pick a time

Find a time that suits you for a free 1:1 consultation with a student advisor.

Call me anytime

A student advisor will call you, usually within 30 minutes during business hours.

Looking for other ways to start the conversation? Contact us

Student reviews

We support thousands of students on their study journey every year.

Our advisors are here to help with your study goals from enrolment to completion 7 days a week.

Biology study FAQs

What is the study of biology.

The study of biology is the study of living organisms, and includes a wide range of specialised disciplines across four main areas: human biology, microbiology, zoology and botany.

Biology explores the building blocks of life, unpacking how living organisms develop, evolve and function. Biology is a discipline of science, and is important to understanding other scientific disciplines as well.

What do you learn in a biology course?

You’ll learn how living organisms work—including their evolution, functions and roles in the broader environments they’re part of.

Depending on your course, you’ll focus on a specific area of the discipline, for example human biology, microbiology or marine science amongst many others. Or you can gain generalist knowledge by studying across specialties.

How long is a biology course?

It depends on the course and whether you choose something short or long-term. Here’s a general guide: 

If you study a degree in biology through Open Universities Australia, you have the flexibility to choose how many subjects you take per term. This means you can complete your qualification at a faster or slower pace than you would on campus.   

Why should I study biology?

You should study biology if you’re looking to build a career in science. Biology knowledge is necessary for roles in many scientific industries, such as health, environmental science and forensic science.

Upskilling in biology can also help you become more proficient in other scientific disciplines that you may already be qualified in. For example, an understanding of biology is relevant to studies of chemistry .

Browse the online biology courses available through us for more information on the career outcomes you can access from specific qualifications.

Why should I study biology online?

You should study biology online if you are looking for a flexible and accessible way to gain your qualification. Studying online will also give you access to a wide range of biology subjects from different universities, which you can undertake individually without having to commit to a degree.

Why should I study online through Open Universities Australia?

There are a lot of reasons to study your course online through us.

• You can enrol without entry requirements  We have a unique open-door policy  that makes it possible for everyone to enrol in university study, no matter their academic history. If you don’t meet the entry requirements for a degree, we’ll help you get in through single undergraduate subjects and transition into a qualification from there.
• You have total control over how you study Upskill without committing to a whole degree upfront. Or enrol in a full degree, but take it a subject at a time. We’ll introduce you to flexible study options you didn’t even know about, so you can fit uni around what matters to you.
• You’ll graduate with the same qualification as an on-campus student Once you enrol through us, you’ll study online with the university that provides your degree. This means that when you complete your qualification, you’ll graduate with the same degree as on-campus students.
• We’ll help you navigate the university world Our friendly student advisors will be your guide every step of the enrolment journey. They'll help you compare universities, choose a course, provide documentation and understand your finance options.

What jobs can you get with a biology degree?

With a biology degree, you could be a: 

• biology teacher
• researcher/academic
• lab technician
• microbiologist

A biology degree can provide the prerequisite you need for further specialisied study in an area like medicine or pharmacology. It could also put you on the path towards a PhD.  If you’re looking to transition your career into a different area of biology, or seeking to change your direction completing, studying a biology course online is a great way to get started and help you identify your next steps.

How do I know which course is right for me?

Enrol in a single subject  to get a taste of the content for any qualification you’re interested in. The subjects available through us are covered by HELP funding , which means eligible students aren’t obligated to pay for their studies upfront.

Or book a free phone consultation with a student advisor to discuss your available study options. We’ll help you find the course that suits you best.

How do I know if I’m eligible to apply for a course?

Before starting an enrolment, it’s important to read the entry requirements for your chosen course to ensure that you’re eligible to apply. If you don’t quite meet the requirements, we may be able to help you find a pathway into your course through open-entry subjects, which anyone can study.

Chat with us  to find out more.

How do I enrol?

Here at Open Universities Australia, we make enrolling online as straightforward as possible. To get started, find the course for you by browsing the options on this page. You can also compare different qualifications using our handy comparison tool , or request help from one of our student advisors.

When you’ve made your choice, click ‘Apply now’ on the relevant course page and follow the prompts to begin your enrolment. We’ll ask you to supply some supporting documentation, including proof of your identity, your tax file number, and a unique student identifier (USI)  during this process.

Your university will get in touch with you via email to confirm whether or not your application has been successful.

If you get stuck at any time, reach out to us  and we’ll talk you through it.

You can also take a look at our online self-service enrolling instructions .

Student stories and study advice

How to start a career brewing beer

What is environmental science?

Careers in maths: 6 ways to use your mathematics degree

Want a career in the space industry?

We’re here to guide you to the right uni course.

Open Universities Australia is a not-for-profit organisation helping every Australian to access thousands of university courses.

Over 505,000 students have enrolled in university through us since 1993.

How we can help you

Studying through Open Universities Australia means we take care of the guesswork and administration of university study, so you can focus on learning.

You don't need a strong academic history to go to uni

We make it possible for everyone to start university through single subjects, regardless of ATAR or study experience. These subjects are covered by government loans, and can be used to upskill or gain entry into a qualification.

You have the flexibility to start at multiple points during the year

We’re not restricted by a traditional academic calendar, so you can enrol when it suits your life. You also have total control over how you study. You can scale up (or down) your study load and even pause your course if you need to.

You can rely on us as an unbiased destination for online tertiary education

As a not for profit, we have your best interests at heart. Our advisors are here 7 days a week to guide and support you. It’s our priority to get you qualified with the university of your choice.

Enrol in courses from 27 of Australia's leading universities

• My Account |
• StudentHome |
• TutorHome |
• IntranetHome |
• Contact the OU Contact the OU Contact the OU |
• Accessibility Accessibility

Postgraduate

• International
• News & media
• Business & apprenticeships
• Contact Contact Contact
• A to Z of subjects
• Course types
• Honours degrees
• Integrated masters degrees
• Foundation degrees
• Diplomas of Higher Education
• Certificates of Higher Education
• Open University certificates
• Open qualifications
• Higher Technical Qualifications
• Microcredentials
• Short courses
• All courses
• Student stories
• Accountancy
• Counselling
• Engineering
• Environment
• IT and computing
• Mental health
• Social work
• Working with children
• Employability and the OU
• International recognition
• Apprenticeships
• What is distance learning?
• A guide to our qualifications
• How long will my qualification take?
• How will I study?
• Tutors and tutorials
• How will I be assessed?
• Support and the OU community
• Ask a student
• Our global reputation
• Can I do it?
• Finding time to study
• Is my English good enough?
• Computing skills
• Am I ready tool
• Fees and funding
• Tuition fee loan
• Tuition fee grants and loans
• Part-time fee grant
• Support for living costs
• Employer sponsorship
• Credit or debit card
• Enhanced learning credits
• Mixed payments
• Study costs funding
• Carers' Scholarship
• Carers' Bursary
• Care Experienced Bursary
• Care Experienced Scholarship
• Bursary for Black Students
• Scholarship for Black Students
• Disabled Veterans' Scholarships
• Sanctuary Scholarship
• How to apply
• Transferring your study

Biology courses

Discover more about the fascinating biological world all around you.

The Open University provides a range of biology modules and qualifications, whether you want to expand your subject knowledge or develop and change your career.

Biology Degrees  Degrees Also known as an undergraduate or bachelors degree. Internationally respected, universally understood. An essential requirement for many high-level jobs. Gain a thorough understanding of your subject – and the tools to investigate, think critically, form reasoned arguments, solve problems and communicate effectively in new contexts. Progress to higher level study, such as a postgraduate diploma or masters degree.

• Credits measure the student workload required for the successful completion of a module or qualification.
• One credit represents about 10 hours of study over the duration of the course.
• You are awarded credits after you have successfully completed a module.
• For example, if you study a 60-credit module and successfully pass it, you will be awarded 60 credits.

How long will it take?

Biology Diplomas  Diplomas Widely recognised qualification. Equivalent to the first two thirds of an honours degree. Enhance your professional and technical skills or extend your knowledge and understanding of a subject. Study for interest or career development. Top up to a full honours degree in just two years.

Biology certificates  certificates widely recognised qualification. equivalent to the first third of an honours degree. study for interest or career development. shows that you can study successfully at university level. count it towards further qualifications such as a diphe or honours degree., why study biology with the open university.

Join other OU undergraduate students to discover and benefit from our long-established, quality distance-learning teaching. We also use innovative technologies to provide a supported and varied learning experience. Study biology with us, and you’ll:

• Explore and develop your knowledge of biology subjects and applications while developing your scientific skills.
• Undertake home and field investigations, and virtual experiments delivered through our award-winning OpenSTEM Labs.
• Design and undertake asmall research project.
• Further develop your fieldwork and practical skills through optional short residential schools.
• Become an adaptable graduate with transferable skills highly valued in scientific and non-scientific job markets.

Careers in Biology

Study Biology with The Open University, and you’ll develop the scientific problem-solving, analytical, investigative and communication skills many employers require. You’ll be able to apply your new knowledge and skills in many different areas and fields of work.

Our range of courses in Biology can help you start or progress your career in a wide range of areas, including:

• Research or postgraduate study
• Veterinary, agriculture and medical-related fields
• Biotechnology and biomedical engineering
• Environmental management and conservation
• Government departments, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and charities

Looking for something other than a qualification?

The majority of our modules can be studied by themselves, on a stand-alone basis. If you later choose to work towards a qualification, you may be able to count your study towards it.

See our full list of Biology modules

All Biology courses

Browse all the Biology courses we offer – certificates, diplomas and degrees.

See our full list of Biology courses

The Open University

• Study with us
• Supported distance learning
• Funding your studies
• International students
• Global reputation
• Develop your workforce
• Contact the OU

Undergraduate

• Arts and Humanities
• Art History
• Business and Management
• Combined Studies
• Computing and IT
• Creative Writing
• Criminology
• Early Years
• Electronic Engineering
• Film and Media
• Health and Social Care
• Health and Wellbeing
• Health Sciences
• International Studies
• Mathematics
• Mental Health
• Nursing and Healthcare
• Religious Studies
• Social Sciences
• Social Work
• Software Engineering
• Sport and Fitness
• Postgraduate study
• Research degrees
• Masters in Art History (MA)
• Masters in Computing (MSc)
• Masters in Creative Writing (MA)
• Masters degree in Education
• Masters in Engineering (MSc)
• Masters in English Literature (MA)
• Masters in History (MA)
• Master of Laws (LLM)
• Masters in Mathematics (MSc)
• Masters in Psychology (MSc)
• A to Z of Masters degrees
• Accessibility statement
• Conditions of use
• Privacy policy
• Cookie policy
• Manage cookie preferences
• Modern slavery act (pdf 149kb)

Follow us on Social media

• Student Policies and Regulations
• Student Charter
• System Status
• Contact the OU Contact the OU
• Modern Slavery Act (pdf 149kb)

© . . .