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Natural Sciences Courses

Natural sciences courses can help you learn about biological systems, chemical reactions, physical laws, and ecological principles. You can build skills in experimental design, data analysis, and critical thinking while exploring topics like genetics, thermodynamics, and environmental science. Many courses introduce tools such as laboratory equipment, statistical software, and simulation models, that support conducting experiments and analyzing scientific data.


Popular Natural Sciences Courses and Certifications


  • D

    Dartmouth College

    Introduction to Environmental Science

    Skills you'll gain: Environment, Environmental Issue, Environmental Science, Demography, Energy and Utilities, Environment and Resource Management, Sustainable Development, Biology, Hydrology, Life Sciences, Climate Change Programs, Water Quality, Land Management, Nutrition and Diet, Oil and Gas, Pollution Prevention, Petroleum Industry, Sustainable Systems, Electric Power Systems, Nutrition Education

    ★ 4.7 (451) · Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • D

    Dartmouth College

    Environmental Science

    Skills you'll gain: Environment, Environmental Issue, Environmental Science, Environment and Resource Management, Sustainable Development, Biology, Hydrology, Life Sciences, Climate Change Programs, Water Quality, Pollution Prevention, Physical Science, Systems Thinking, Energy and Utilities, Chemistry

    ★ 4.7 (345) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • S

    Stanford University

    Writing in the Sciences

    Skills you'll gain: Grant Writing, Peer Review, Writing and Editing, Writing, Journals, Editing, General Science and Research, Grammar

    ★ 4.9 (9.8K) · Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • U

    University of Michigan

    Green Skills for a Sustainable and Just Future

    Skills you'll gain: Sustainable Development, Social Justice, Sustainable Systems, Geographic Information Systems, Organizational Change, Sustainable Business, Geospatial Information and Technology, Environmental Policy, Environmental Issue, Environmental Regulations, GIS Software, Organizational Development, Geospatial Mapping, Culture Transformation, Organizational Effectiveness, Health Disparities, Leadership, Collaboration, Financial Analysis, Critical Thinking

    ★ 4.7 (57) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • U

    University of North Texas

    Contemporary Biology

    Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Biology, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Physiology, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Respiration, Environment, Microbiology, Environmental Science, General Science and Research

    ★ 4.7 (98) · Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    Category: Preview
    Preview
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • R

    Rice University

    Introduction to Biology: Ecology, Evolution, & Biodiversity

    Skills you'll gain: Biology, Environment, Microbiology, Environmental Science, Life Sciences, Environmental Issue, Sustainable Development, Natural Resource Management, Physiology, Molecular Biology, Taxonomy, Cell Biology, Anatomy, Climate Change Adaptation, Estimation, Scientific Methods, Climate Change Mitigation, Experimentation

    ★ 4.8 (290) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered

What brings you to Coursera today?

  • D

    Dartmouth College

    Question Reality! Science, philosophy, a search for meaning

    Skills you'll gain: Computational Logic, Scientific Methods, Theoretical Computer Science, Logical Reasoning, Science and Research, Physics, Experimentation, Laboratory Experience, Physical Science, Artificial Intelligence, Simulations, Computer Science, AI literacy, Psychology, Liberal Arts, General Science and Research, Ancient History, Vibrations, Mechanics, Chemistry

    ★ 4.7 (40) · Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • J

    Johns Hopkins University

    Precalculus through Data and Modelling

    Skills you'll gain: Data Literacy, Data Analysis, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling, Graphing, Trigonometry, R (Software), R Programming, General Mathematics, Data Modeling, Algebra, Systems Of Measurement, Mathematical Software, Regression Analysis, Calculus, Business Mathematics, Geometry

    ★ 4.7 (321) · Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • U

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Wetland Science and Conservation

    Skills you'll gain: Stakeholder Engagement, Environmental Monitoring, Hydrology, Cultural Responsiveness, Community Outreach, Water Resource Management, Environmental Engineering and Restoration, Water Resources, Cultural Diversity, Diversity Awareness, Policty Analysis, Research, and Development, Land Management, Policy Analysis, Social Sciences, Cultural Sensitivity, Environment and Resource Management, Environmental Laws, Natural Resource Management, Water Quality, Climate Change Adaptation

    ★ 4.9 (18) · Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • U

    University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

    Wetland Science & Management: Fundamentals to Conservation

    Skills you'll gain: Environmental Monitoring, Hydrology, Environmental Engineering and Restoration, Water Resource Management, Land Management, Natural Resource Management, Water Resources, Water Quality, Environmental Resource Management, Climate Change Adaptation, Environmental Science, Adaptability, Biology, Research Reports, Environment and Resource Management, Environment, Geographic Information Systems, Laboratory Testing, Geospatial Information and Technology, Technical Documentation

    ★ 4.9 (16) · Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    Status: Free Trial
    Free Trial
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • T

    The University of Edinburgh

    Philosophy and the Sciences: Introduction to the Philosophy of Physical Sciences

    Skills you'll gain: Research, Science and Research, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Physical Science, Physics, Research Methodologies

    ★ 4.7 (957) · Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Category: Preview
    Preview
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
  • P

    Princeton University

    Imagining Other Earths

    Skills you'll gain: Biology, Life Sciences, Physical Science, Biochemistry, Physics, Environment, Microbiology, Environmental Science, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Research, Mathematical Modeling, Estimation

    ★ 4.7 (411) · Mixed · Course · 3 - 6 Months

    Category: Free
    Free
    Category: Credit offered
    Credit offered
1234…202

In summary, here are 10 of our most popular natural sciences courses

  • Introduction to Environmental Science: Dartmouth College
  • Environmental Science: Dartmouth College
  • Writing in the Sciences: Stanford University
  • Green Skills for a Sustainable and Just Future: University of Michigan
  • Contemporary Biology : University of North Texas
  • Introduction to Biology: Ecology, Evolution, & Biodiversity: Rice University
  • Question Reality! Science, philosophy, a search for meaning: Dartmouth College
  • Precalculus through Data and Modelling: Johns Hopkins University
  • Wetland Science and Conservation: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
  • Wetland Science & Management: Fundamentals to Conservation: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Frequently Asked Questions about Natural Sciences

A variety of career paths are available in the natural sciences, ranging from research and academia to applied sciences in industry. Potential job titles include laboratory technician, environmental scientist, biochemist, and science educator. Additionally, roles in healthcare, such as nursing or medical research, often require a solid foundation in natural sciences. As industries increasingly rely on scientific knowledge, opportunities in fields like pharmaceuticals, environmental consulting, and biotechnology continue to grow.‎

To succeed in natural sciences, you should develop a strong foundation in scientific principles and methodologies. Key skills include analytical thinking, problem-solving, and data analysis. Familiarity with laboratory techniques and equipment is also important, as is the ability to communicate scientific concepts effectively. Additionally, skills in statistics and research methods are valuable, especially for those pursuing careers in research or academia.‎

There are numerous online courses available that cater to various aspects of natural sciences. Some highly regarded options include the Nursing Prerequisites: Essential Sciences for Future Nurses Professional Certificate and the Natural Disaster and Climate Change Risk Assessment Specialization. These courses provide foundational knowledge and practical skills applicable to real-world scenarios.‎

Yes. You can start learning natural sciences on Coursera for free in two ways:

  1. Preview the first module of many natural sciences 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 natural sciences, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎

Learning natural sciences can be approached through various methods. Start by identifying your area of interest, whether it be biology, chemistry, or physics. Online courses, textbooks, and educational videos can provide foundational knowledge. Engaging in hands-on experiments, whether at home or in a lab setting, can enhance your understanding. Additionally, participating in discussions or study groups can help reinforce concepts and foster a collaborative learning environment.‎

Natural sciences courses typically cover a wide range of topics, including the scientific method, fundamental principles of various scientific disciplines, and current research trends. Specific subjects may include ecology, genetics, thermodynamics, and environmental science. Many courses also emphasize practical applications, such as laboratory techniques and data analysis, to prepare learners for real-world challenges.‎

For training and upskilling employees in the natural sciences, courses like the Natural Disaster and Climate Change Risk Assessment Specialization can be particularly beneficial. These programs equip learners with relevant skills and knowledge to address pressing environmental issues, making them valuable for organizations focused on sustainability and scientific innovation.‎

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.

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