• For Individuals
  • For Businesses
  • For Universities
  • For Governments
Degrees
​
Log In
Join for Free
  • Browse
  • Computational Biology

Computational Biology Courses

Computational biology courses can help you learn genetic sequencing, protein structure prediction, and biological data analysis. You can build skills in algorithm development, statistical modeling, and data visualization techniques. Many courses introduce tools like Python, R, and bioinformatics software, that support analyzing complex biological datasets and simulating biological processes.

Popular Computational Biology Courses and Certifications


  • cplus logo

    Ends soon! Gain skills with 40% off Coursera Plus

    Save 40% for 3 months
  • J

    Johns Hopkins University

    Genomic Data Science

    Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Unix Commands, grep, Biostatistics, R (Software), Exploratory Data Analysis, Statistical Analysis, Unix Shell, Unix, Data Science, Data Management, Statistical Methods, Command-Line Interface, Statistical Hypothesis Testing, Linux Commands, Data Structures, Big Data, Molecular Biology, R Programming, Python Programming

    4.5 stars, 6.9K reviews, Intermediate, Specialization, 3 - 6 Months

    ★ 4.5 (6.9K) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Trending right now
    Trending right now
    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
  • U

    University of California San Diego

    Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners

    Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Programming Principles, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Python Programming, Computational Thinking, Biology, Program Development

    4.2 stars, 1.6K reviews, Beginner, Course, 1 - 4 Weeks

    ★ 4.2 (1.6K) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Category: Preview
    Preview
  • T

    Taipei Medical University

    Artificial Intelligence in Bioinformatics

    Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Informatics, Model Training, Machine Learning Algorithms, Supervised Learning, Feature Engineering, Technical Communication, Machine Learning Methods, Classification Algorithms, Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning (AI/ML), Deep Learning, Applied Machine Learning, AI Workflows, Random Forest Algorithm, Artificial Intelligence, Predictive Modeling, Molecular Biology, Natural Language Processing, Biology, Data Analysis

    Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: New
    New
    Category: Preview
    Preview
  • U

    University of California San Diego

    Bioinformatics

    Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Molecular Biology, Dimensionality Reduction, Biostatistics, Unsupervised Learning, Statistical Methods, Data Analysis Software, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Markov Model, Biotechnology, Life Sciences, Statistical Machine Learning, Machine Learning Algorithms, Infectious Diseases, Microbiology, Epidemiology, Statistical Analysis, Algorithms, Computational Thinking, Python Programming

    4.3 stars, 1.3K reviews, Beginner, Specialization, 3 - 6 Months

    ★ 4.3 (1.3K) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
  • U

    University of California San Diego

    Applied Bioinformatics

    Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Diagnostic Tests, Computational Thinking, Model Evaluation, Epidemiology, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Informatics, Network Analysis, Molecular Biology, Medical Science and Research, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Data Mining, Life Sciences, Scientific Visualization, Data Synthesis, Data Literacy, Microbiology, Science and Research

    4.3 stars, 74 reviews, Beginner, Specialization, 1 - 3 Months

    ★ 4.3 (74) · Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • J

    Johns Hopkins University

    Python for Genomic Data Science

    Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Data Structures, Code Reusability, Jupyter, Python Programming, Programming Principles, Scripting, File I/O, Computational Logic, Computer Programming, Data Manipulation, Analysis

    4.3 stars, 1.8K reviews, Mixed, Course, 1 - 4 Weeks

    ★ 4.3 (1.8K) · Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
  • J

    Johns Hopkins University

    Cancer Biology

    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

    4.8 stars, 10K reviews, Beginner, Specialization, 3 - 6 Months

    ★ 4.8 (10K) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
  • I

    Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

    Systems Biology and Biotechnology

    Skills you'll gain: Matlab, Bioinformatics, Mathematical Software, Quantitative Research, 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, Life Sciences, Network Analysis, Biology

    4.4 stars, 990 reviews, Intermediate, Specialization, 3 - 6 Months

    ★ 4.4 (990) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
  • U

    University of Washington

    Computational Neuroscience

    Skills you'll gain: Machine Learning Methods, Network Model, Electrophysiology, Supervised Learning, Machine Learning Algorithms, Artificial Neural Networks, Reinforcement Learning, Sensory Systems Analysis, Matlab, Mathematical Modeling, Network Analysis, Neurology, Recurrent Neural Networks (RNNs), Physiology, Biology, Differential Equations, Probability Distribution

    4.6 stars, 1.1K reviews, Beginner, Course, 1 - 3 Months

    ★ 4.6 (1.1K) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
  • U

    University of Pennsylvania

    Computational Thinking for Problem Solving

    Skills you'll gain: Computational Thinking, Algorithms, Programming Principles, Program Development, Pseudocode, Problem Solving, Analytical Skills, Python Programming, Computer Systems, Data Structures, Computer Hardware, Computer Programming, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Analysis, Computer Architecture, Debugging

    4.7 stars, 1.4K reviews, Beginner, Course, 1 - 4 Weeks

    ★ 4.7 (1.4K) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Category: Preview
    Preview
  • U

    University of Colorado Boulder

    Engineering Genetic Circuits

    Skills you'll gain: Biological Engineering, Markov Model, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Simulation and Simulation Software, Mathematical Modeling, Engineering Analysis, Mathematical Software, Process Engineering, Engineering Design Process, Systems Design, Simulations, Biochemistry, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Life Sciences, Failure Analysis, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Process Modeling, Differential Equations, Design Specifications

    4.4 stars, 38 reviews, Intermediate, Specialization, 3 - 6 Months

    ★ 4.4 (38) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free trial
    Free trial
    Category: Build toward a degree
    Build toward a degree
  • U

    University of Virginia

    Bacterial Bioinformatics

    Skills you'll gain: Bioinformatics, Data Analysis Software, Scientific Visualization, Taxonomy, Data Import/Export

    4.7 stars, 322 reviews, Intermediate, Course, 1 - 3 Months

    ★ 4.7 (322) · Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Free
    Free

What brings you to Coursera today?

1234…88

Best free Computational Biology courses

High-quality free Computational Biology courses you can start today.

  1. 1
    Biology Meets Programming: Bioinformatics for Beginners
    University of California San DiegoBeginner1 - 4 Weeks4.2(1,644)Free
  2. 2
    Computational Neuroscience
    University of WashingtonBeginner1 - 3 Months4.6(1,147)Free
  3. 3
    Bacterial Bioinformatics
    University of VirginiaIntermediate1 - 3 Months4.7(322)Free

Best Computational Biology courses from Johns Hopkins University

Top-rated Computational Biology courses offered by Johns Hopkins University on Coursera.

  1. 1
    Genomic Data Science
    Johns Hopkins UniversityIntermediate3 - 6 Months4.5(6,859)Johns Hopkins University
  2. 2
    Python for Genomic Data Science
    Johns Hopkins UniversityMixed1 - 4 Weeks4.3(1,828)Johns Hopkins University
  3. 3
    Cancer Biology
    Johns Hopkins UniversityBeginner3 - 6 Months4.8(9,971)Johns Hopkins University

Best Computational Biology certificate programs

Earn a certificate in Computational Biology from top universities and companies.

  1. 1
    Bioinformatics
    University of California San DiegoBeginner3 - 6 Months4.3(1,294)Specialization
  2. 2
    Applied Bioinformatics
    University of California San DiegoBeginner1 - 3 Months4.3(74)Specialization
  3. 3
    Systems Biology and Biotechnology
    Icahn School of Medicine at Mount SinaiIntermediate3 - 6 Months4.4(990)Specialization

Best Computational Biology courses for beginners

Top-rated beginner-friendly Computational Biology courses with no prerequisites.

  1. 1
    Artificial Intelligence in Bioinformatics
    Taipei Medical UniversityBeginner1 - 3 Months5.0(1)No prerequisites
  2. 2
    Computational Thinking for Problem Solving
    University of PennsylvaniaBeginner1 - 4 Weeks4.7(1,435)No prerequisites

Skills you can learn in Algorithms

Graphs (22)
Mathematical Optimization (21)
Computer Program (20)
Data Structure (19)
Problem Solving (19)
Algebra (12)
Computer Vision (10)
Discrete Mathematics (10)
Graph Theory (10)
Image Processing (10)
Linear Algebra (10)
Reinforcement Learning (10)

Frequently Asked Questions about Computational Biology

Computational biology is an interdisciplinary field that combines biology, computer science, and mathematics to analyze and interpret biological data. This area is crucial for advancing our understanding of complex biological systems, such as genetic sequences, protein structures, and ecological interactions. By leveraging computational techniques, researchers can make significant discoveries in areas like genomics, drug development, and personalized medicine, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes and innovative solutions to biological challenges.‎

Careers in computational biology are diverse and can be found in various sectors, including healthcare, pharmaceuticals, and academia. Some potential job titles include bioinformatics analyst, computational biologist, data scientist, and research scientist. These roles often involve analyzing large datasets, developing algorithms, and collaborating with biologists to interpret findings. As the demand for data-driven insights in biology continues to grow, opportunities in this field are expanding, making it an exciting career choice.‎

To succeed in computational biology, you will need a blend of skills from both biological sciences and computational methods. Key skills include programming languages such as Python or R, statistical analysis, data visualization, and an understanding of biological concepts. Familiarity with machine learning techniques and experience with databases can also be beneficial. Building a solid foundation in these areas will empower you to tackle complex biological questions and contribute to innovative research.‎

There are several excellent online courses available for those interested in computational biology. Notable options include the Introduction to Computational Statistics for Data Scientists Specialization, which covers essential statistical methods, and the Cancer Biology Specialization, focusing on the intersection of biology and computational techniques in cancer research. These courses provide valuable knowledge and skills that can enhance your understanding and capabilities in this field.‎

Yes. You can start learning computational biology on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many computational biology courses at no cost. This includes video lessons, readings, graded assignments, and Coursera Coach (where available).
  2. Start a 7-day free trial for Specializations or Coursera Plus. This gives you full access to all course content across eligible programs within the timeframe of your trial.

If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in computational biology, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

To learn computational biology, start by identifying your current knowledge level and the specific areas you want to explore. Begin with foundational courses in biology and programming, then gradually progress to more specialized topics. Engage with online resources, participate in forums, and collaborate with peers to enhance your understanding. Practical experience through projects or internships can also be invaluable in applying what you've learned and gaining real-world insights.‎

Computational biology courses typically cover a range of topics, including bioinformatics, genomics, systems biology, and data analysis techniques. You may also encounter subjects like algorithm design, statistical modeling, and machine learning applications in biology. These topics equip learners with the knowledge needed to analyze biological data effectively and contribute to research and innovation in the field.‎

For training and upskilling employees in computational biology, courses like the Biology Everywhere Specialization can provide a comprehensive overview of biological concepts and their computational applications. Additionally, the Systems Biology and Biotechnology Specialization offers insights into the integration of biological data and computational methods, making it suitable for workforce development in this rapidly evolving field.‎

This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

Other topics to explore

Arts and Humanities
338 courses
Business
1095 courses
Computer Science
668 courses
Data Science
425 courses
Information Technology
145 courses
Health
471 courses
Math and Logic
70 courses
Personal Development
137 courses
Physical Science and Engineering
413 courses
Social Sciences
401 courses
Language Learning
150 courses

Coursera Footer

Skills

  • Accounting
  • Artificial Intelligence (AI)
  • Cybersecurity
  • Data Analytics
  • Digital Marketing
  • Human Resources (HR)
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Project Management
  • Python
  • SQL

Professional Certificates

  • Google AI Certificate
  • Google Cybersecurity Certificate
  • Google Data Analytics Certificate
  • Google IT Support Certificate
  • Google Project Management Certificate
  • Google UX Design Certificate
  • IBM AI Engineering Certificate
  • IBM AI Product Manager Certificate
  • IBM Data Science Certificate
  • Intuit Academy Bookkeeping Certificate

Courses & Specializations

  • AI Essentials Specialization
  • AI For Business Specialization
  • AI For Everyone Course
  • AI in Healthcare Specialization
  • Deep Learning Specialization
  • Excel Skills for Business Specialization
  • Financial Markets Course
  • Machine Learning Specialization
  • Prompt Engineering for ChatGPT Course
  • Python for Everybody Specialization

Career Resources

  • Career Aptitude Test
  • CAPM Certification Requirements
  • CompTIA A+ Certification Requirements
  • CompTIA Security+ Certification Requirements
  • Essential IT Certifications
  • High-Income Skills to Learn
  • How to Learn Artificial Intelligence
  • PMP Certification Requirements
  • Popular Cybersecurity Certifications
  • Share your Coursera learning story

Coursera

  • About
  • What We Offer
  • Leadership
  • Careers
  • Catalog
  • Coursera Plus
  • Professional Certificates
  • MasterTrack® Certificates
  • Degrees
  • For Enterprise
  • For Government
  • For Campus
  • Become a Partner
  • Social Impact
  • Free Courses
  • Udemy

Community

  • Learners
  • Partners
  • Beta Testers
  • Blog
  • The Coursera Podcast
  • Tech Blog

More

  • Press
  • Investors
  • Terms
  • Privacy
  • Help
  • Accessibility
  • Contact
  • Articles
  • Directory
  • Affiliates
  • Modern Slavery Statement
  • Do Not Sell/Share
Learn Anywhere
Download on the App Store
Get it on Google Play
© 2026 Coursera Inc. All rights reserved.
  • Coursera Facebook
  • Coursera Linkedin
  • Coursera Twitter
  • Coursera YouTube
  • Coursera Instagram
  • Coursera TikTok