Cancer biology courses can help you learn about tumor biology, cancer genetics, and the mechanisms of metastasis. You can build skills in analyzing cancer data, understanding treatment modalities, and evaluating clinical trial designs. Many courses introduce tools like bioinformatics software for genomic analysis and laboratory techniques such as PCR and flow cytometry, that support conducting research and interpreting results in the study of cancer.

Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Oncology, Medical Imaging, Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology, Patient Education and Support, Mammography, Radiation Therapy, Molecular Biology, Diagnostic Tests, X-Ray Computed Tomography, Clinical Trials, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Capillary, Pain Management, Preventative Care, Treatment Planning, Hemodynamics, Drug Development, Cell Biology, Biology
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Oncology, Medical Imaging, Radiology, Diagnostic Radiology, Mammography, Molecular Biology, X-Ray Computed Tomography, Clinical Trials, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Radiation Therapy, Cell Biology, Treatment Planning, Patient Treatment, Pathology, Epidemiology, Preventative Care, Biology, Risk Analysis, Surgery
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Imperial College London
Skills you'll gain: Immunology, Infectious Diseases, Oncology, Pathology, Pharmacotherapy, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Chronic Diseases, Treatment Planning
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Human Development, Biology, Life Sciences, Environment, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Chemistry, Cell Biology, Child Development, Environmental Science, Environmental Resource Management, Music, Biotechnology, Environment and Resource Management, General Science and Research, Decision Making, Natural Resource Management, Liberal Arts, Oncology
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Moderna
Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Pharmacology, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Pharmacotherapy, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Life Sciences, Immunology, Precision Medicine, Pharmaceuticals, Cell Biology, Emerging Technologies, Medical Science and Research, Drug Development, Infectious Diseases, Oncology
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
Skills you'll gain: Matlab, Bioinformatics, Mathematical Software, Quantitative Research, Electrophysiology, Unsupervised Learning, Data Synthesis, Research, Mathematical Modeling, Molecular Biology, Simulation and Simulation Software, Pharmacology, Science and Research, Cell Biology, Biotechnology, Laboratory Research, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, General Science and Research, Network Analysis, Biology
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Lecturio
Skills you'll gain: Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Life Sciences, Pharmacology, Biology
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Capillary, Hemodynamics, Drug Development, Oncology, Cell Biology, Biology, Pathology, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Pharmacology
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Yale University
Skills you'll gain: Mammography, Oncology, Clinical Trials, Diagnostic Tests, Radiation Therapy, Treatment Planning, Surgery, Care Management, Preventative Care, Rehabilitation, Clinical Research, Pathology, Precision Medicine, Patient Treatment, Maternal Health, Biology, General Medical Tests and Procedures, Patient Education And Counseling, Molecular Biology
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Data Science, Molecular Biology, Science and Research, Data Processing, Data Analysis, Computer Science, Correlation Analysis, Biotechnology, Statistical Analysis, Computational Thinking, Life Sciences, Probability & Statistics, Statistics, Software Engineering, Algorithms, Biology
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Birla Institute of Technology & Science, Pilani
Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Biotechnology, Data Management, Biostatistics, Clinical Data Management, Precision Medicine, Data Mining, Applied Machine Learning, Unsupervised Learning, Cell Biology, Scientific Visualization, Large Language Modeling, LLM Application, Data Preprocessing, Correlation Analysis, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Dimensionality Reduction, Computational Thinking, Markov Model, Algorithms
Build toward a degree
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Johns Hopkins University
Skills you'll gain: Patient Education and Support, Radiation Therapy, Diagnostic Tests, Oncology, Pain Management, Preventative Care, Patient Evaluation, Endocrinology, Pathology, Urology, Patient Treatment, Treatment Planning, Biology, Surgery, Care Management, Risk Analysis, Pharmacotherapy
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Cancer biology is the study of cancer's biological mechanisms, including its development, progression, and treatment. Understanding cancer biology is crucial because it helps researchers and healthcare professionals identify potential therapies, improve diagnostic methods, and develop preventive strategies. This field is vital for advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes. ‎
Careers in cancer biology can vary widely, including roles such as cancer researcher, clinical trial coordinator, medical science liaison, and oncology nurse. These positions often require a strong foundation in biological sciences and may involve working in laboratories, hospitals, or academic institutions. The demand for professionals in this field continues to grow as cancer research advances.‎
To pursue a career in cancer biology, you should focus on developing skills in molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, and data analysis. Familiarity with laboratory techniques and bioinformatics can also be beneficial. Additionally, strong communication skills are essential for collaborating with interdisciplinary teams and conveying complex information effectively.‎
Some of the best online courses in cancer biology include the Cancer Biology Specialization and the Introduction to the Biology of Cancer. These courses provide foundational knowledge and practical insights into the mechanisms of cancer, making them valuable for anyone interested in this field.‎
Yes. You can start learning cancer biology on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in cancer biology, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
Learning cancer biology can be approached through a combination of online courses, textbooks, and research articles. Start with foundational courses, such as the Introduction to the Biology of Cancer, and gradually explore more specialized topics. Engaging with online communities and attending webinars can also enhance your understanding.‎
Typical topics covered in cancer biology courses include the molecular basis of cancer, tumor microenvironment, cancer genetics, and therapeutic strategies. Courses often explore the latest research findings and clinical applications, providing a comprehensive overview of the field.‎
For training and upskilling employees in cancer biology, the Cancer Biology Specialization is highly recommended. This specialization offers a structured curriculum that equips learners with essential knowledge and skills applicable in various professional settings.‎