Free Online DNA Courses & MOOCs

Coursera

University of California, San Diego

Comparing Genes, Proteins, and Genomes (Bioinformatics III) (Coursera)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences Health & Society

Dive into the fascinating world of bioinformatics with 'Comparing Genes, Proteins, and Genomes (Bioinformatics III)'. This comprehensive online course will guide you through comparing genetic sequences, understanding evolutionary changes, and applying advanced algorithmic tools to analyze DNA and protein data. Perfect for students, researchers, and professionals in biology and genetics.

Sep 14th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Genes DNA Genomes

Coursera

University of California, San Diego

Finding Mutations in DNA and Proteins (Bioinformatics VI) (Coursera)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences Computer Science

Dive into the intricate world of genomics and proteomics with this specialized online course, where you'll learn advanced bioinformatics techniques for identifying mutations in DNA and proteins. This course is perfect for those looking to delve deeper into understanding genetic variations and their implications on health and evolution.

Sep 14th 2026

5-12 Weeks

DNA Bioinformatics Proteins

Coursera

University of California, San Diego

Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners (Coursera)

CS: Software Engineering CS: Theory

Dive into the fascinating world where biology meets programming with 'Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners.' This course is designed to introduce you to the basics of bioinformatics, teaching you how to apply programming (specifically Python) to solve complex biological problems. Whether you're a student, researcher, or simply curious about the intersection of science and coding, this course will equip you with essential skills in algorithm implementation and problem-solving within a biological context.

Sep 14th 2026

4 Weeks

Health Biology Programming

Coursera

University of North Texas

Contemporary Biology (Coursera)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences

Embark on an enlightening journey into the realm of biology with our introductory course designed for curious minds. Explore the intricate connections between natural phenomena and daily experiences as you delve into how scientific principles shape your environment and personal health. This course offers a unique, personalized approach to understanding life sciences through a case study centered around yourself.

Sep 14th 2026

4 Weeks

Biology Eukaryotic DNA

FutureLearn

University of Bath

Inside Cancer: How Genes Influence Cancer Development (FutureLearn)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences Medicine & Pharmacology

Discover the fundamental role genetics plays in the onset and progression of cancer through an engaging, free online course. Delve into the world of mutant cells, epigenetic changes, and how they lead to the formation and spread of cancer. This course is perfect for anyone interested in understanding the biological underpinnings of cancer.

Self Paced

4 Weeks

Medicine Science Biology

Coursera

University of Minnesota

Introduction to Human Behavioral Genetics (Coursera)

Sci: Biology & Life Sciences Health & Society

Dive into the intriguing field of human behavioral genetics with our Introduction to Human Behavioral Genetics course. Discover how methodologies such as twin studies, adoption research, and DNA analysis are employed to unravel the complex interplay between nature and nurture in shaping our behaviors. This course will equip you with a foundational understanding of genetic influences on personality traits, cognitive abilities, mental health, and more.

Sep 7th 2026

5-12 Weeks

Genetics Psychology Behavior

FutureLearn

University of Leeds

Causes of Human Disease: Exploring Cancer and Genetic Disease (FutureLearn)

Health & Society Science

Dive into the fascinating world of genetics and disease with this online course. Learn about the structure of DNA, how genetic alterations cause diseases such as cancer, and discover the breakthroughs in understanding genetic disorders. Perfect for anyone interested in medical science, biology, or healthcare.

Self Paced

2 Weeks

Health Genetics Cancer

FutureLearn

University of Aberdeen

How Does the Body Use DNA as a Blueprint? (FutureLearn)

Engineering Health & Society

Dive into the fascinating world of molecular biology and discover how your body uses DNA as its master blueprint. This course will guide you through the basics of genetics, explaining how cells follow a coded instruction manual to build and maintain every part of our bodies. From understanding genetic code to learning about the body's repair mechanisms, this course is an essential introduction for anyone curious about how life works at the cellular level.

Self Paced

3 Weeks

Human Body DNA Molecular Biology

Coursera

McMaster University

DNA Decoded (Coursera)

Health & Society Science

Discover the fascinating world of DNA with 'DNA Decoded'. This comprehensive course unravels the secrets behind your unique genetic code, exploring topics from DNA replication to cloning and its implications for science and society. Perfect for beginners and enthusiasts alike.

Sep 7th 2026

4 Weeks

Genetics DNA Translation