Is this course really 100% online? Do I need to attend any classes in person?

This course is completely online, so there’s no need to show up to a classroom in person. You can access your lectures, readings and assignments anytime and anywhere via the web or your mobile device.

Can I just enroll in a single course?

Yes! To get started, click the course card that interests you and enroll. You can enroll and complete the course to earn a shareable certificate. When you subscribe to a course that is part of a Specialization, you’re automatically subscribed to the full Specialization. Visit your learner dashboard to track your progress.

Is financial aid available?

Yes. In select learning programs, you can apply for financial aid or a scholarship if you can’t afford the enrollment fee. If fin aid or scholarship is available for your learning program selection, you’ll find a link to apply on the description page.

Can I take the course for free?

No, you cannot take this course for free. When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. If you cannot afford the fee, you can apply for financial aid.

Introduction to Biology Specialization

Introduction to Biology Specialization

Biology And Ecosystem Science.

Explore Cells, Genetics, Evolution, Ecology, And Evidence-Based Biological Inquiry

Instructor: Pearson

Included with Learn more

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8 course series

Get in-depth knowledge of a subject

Beginner level

Recommended experience

4 weeks to complete

at 10 hours a week

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

8 course series

Get in-depth knowledge of a subject

Beginner level

Recommended experience

4 weeks to complete

at 10 hours a week

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

Analyze biological systems, from cellular processes and genetics to evolution and ecology, using the scientific method.
Evaluate complex biological problems and ethical issues related to topics like conservation and genetic engineering.

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Taught in English

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Advance your subject-matter expertise

Learn in-demand skills from university and industry experts
Master a subject or tool with hands-on projects
Develop a deep understanding of key concepts
Earn a career certificate from Pearson

Specialization - 8 course series

This Specialization introduces students to the core principles of biology, from the chemistry of life and cell structure to genetics, evolution, ecology, and biotechnology. Students will learn to apply the scientific method, analyze biological data, interpret evidence, and understand how living systems interact across molecular, organismal, and environmental levels. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to connect biology with real-world issues such as genetic engineering, conservation, human biology, and environmental impact.

Applied Learning Project

This Specialization incorporates a range of interactive learning activities and assignments that actively engage learners throughout the experience. These elements are intended to promote consistent participation while providing meaningful opportunities to apply, practice, and refine essential concepts and skills.

The Chemistry of Life

Course 1, 4 hours

What you'll learn

Explain the fundamental properties of life, its major themes, and the scientific method used to study it.
Analyze how atomic interactions determine the properties of water and the structure and function of biomolecules.

Cell Structure and Function

Course 2, 5 hours

What you'll learn

Analyze cell structure and function, including membrane transport, energy conversion, and metabolic pathways.
Explain how cells use signaling pathways to regulate metabolism and respond to their environment.

Cellular Reproduction

Course 3, 3 hours

What you'll learn

Compare the processes of mitosis and meiosis and their roles in the cell cycle and reproduction.
Explain the consequences for human health when cell cycle controls or division processes fail.

DNA: The Molecule of Life

Course 4, 4 hours

What you'll learn

Analyze the molecular processes of DNA replication, transcription, and translation that govern the flow of genetic information.
Assess how gene expression is regulated and how mutations in these processes can impact human health.

Patterns of Inheritance

Course 5, 3 hours

What you'll learn

Explain the fundamental principles of Mendelian and non-Mendelian patterns of inheritance.
Analyze pedigree charts and karyotype data to infer genotypes and predict genetic outcomes.

Evolution and Biodiversity

Course 6, 3 hours

What you'll learn

Analyze the mechanisms of evolution, including natural selection, and their effect on the genetic makeup of populations.
Interpret phylogenetic trees to explain how evolution results in speciation and contributes to biodiversity.

Population and Community Ecology

Course 7, 4 hours

What you'll learn

Analyze the factors that influence population dynamics and shape the interactions between species within a community.
Explain how biotic and abiotic factors define Earth's major biomes and are impacted by global climate change.

Biotechnology

Course 8, 2 hours

What you'll learn

Explain the principles of key biotechnologies, including gene cloning, PCR, and DNA sequencing.
Evaluate the applications and ethical implications of biotechnology in fields like medicine and forensics.

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Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV. Share it on social media and in your performance review.

Instructor

Pearson

80 Courses66 learners

Offered by

Pearson

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Frequently asked questions

This introductory specialization is designed for learners at all levels and does not require any prior background knowledge.

Yes, it is recommended that learners complete the courses in sequence, as each course is designed to build upon the knowledge and skills developed in the previous one. This structured progression ensures a deeper and more cohesive understanding of key concepts throughout the specialization.

Completing the Specialization may qualify you to earn university credit, depending on the institution’s credit policies and requirements. Learners are encouraged to check with their college or university to confirm whether the Specialization is eligible for credit transfer, prior learning assessment, or other credit-bearing opportunities.

Upon completing this Specialization, students will be able to explain core biological principles, including cell structure, genetics, evolution, ecology, and biotechnology. Students will also be prepared to apply the scientific method, analyze biological data, interpret evidence, and connect biology to real-world issues such as conservation, genetic engineering, human biology, and environmental impact.