Duke University
Skills you'll gain: Physiology, Pulmonology, Respiration, Anatomy, Endocrinology, Cardiology, Human Musculoskeletal System, Kinesiology, Nephrology, Biology, Vital Signs, Blood Pressure, Neurology, Urinalysis
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Rice University
Skills you'll gain: Human Musculoskeletal System, Anatomy, Endocrinology, Orthopedics, Kinesiology, Physiology, Neurology, Medical Terminology, Cell Biology, Biology, Chemistry, Clinical Practices, Sports Medicine, Physical Therapy, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Life Sciences, Lifelong Learning
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Michigan
Skills you'll gain: Human Musculoskeletal System, Anatomy, Endocrinology, Pulmonology, Cardiology, Respiration, Gynecology, Hematology, Obstetrics And Gynecology, Orthopedics, Neurology, Urology, Nephrology, Kinesiology, Physiology, Medical Imaging, Sports Medicine, Biology, Medical Terminology, Cell Biology
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Yale University
Skills you'll gain: Psychology, Child Development, Psychiatry, Mental Health, Human Development, Human Learning, Social Sciences, Behavioral Health, Sociology, Neurology, Critical Thinking, Scientific Methods, Problem Solving
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Medical Terminology, Pathology, Medical Records, Anatomy, Health Information Management and Medical Records, Cell Biology, Physiology, Vital Signs, Biology, Human Musculoskeletal System, Nutrition and Diet
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Skills you'll gain: Electocardiography, Hemodynamics, Cardiac Dysrhythmia, Cardiology, Patient Observation, Basic Nursing Skills, Clinical Practices, Patient Evaluation, Medical Emergency, Clinical Experience, Anatomy, Blood Pressure, Physiology, Vital Signs, Clinical Nursing
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

University of Pennsylvania
Skills you'll gain: Vital Signs, Respiration, Respiratory Care, Pulmonology, Pain Management, Physiology, Health Assessment, Cardiology, Thermal Management, Neurology, Patient Evaluation, Anatomy, Clinical Assessment
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

Skills you'll gain: Respiration, Rehabilitation, Human Musculoskeletal System, Hemodynamics, Respiratory Care, Pulmonology, Orthopedics, Capillary, Clinical Practices, Cell Biology, Physiology, Anatomy, Endocrinology, Medical Imaging, Cardiology, Kinesiology, Immunology, Pulmonary Function Testing, Diagnostic Tests, Interactive Learning
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

Rice University
Skills you'll gain: Pulmonology, Obstetrics And Gynecology, Respiration, Anatomy, Urology, Cardiology, Urinalysis, Patient Evaluation, Immunology, Hematology, Hemodynamics, Nephrology, Capillary, Gynecology, Pathology, Physiology, Clinical Nutrition, Medical Terminology, Biology, Lifelong Learning
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

University of Colorado Boulder
Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Physiology, Sports Medicine, Nutrition and Diet, Pharmacology, Public Health and Disease Prevention, Immunology, Preventative Care, Respiration, Athletic Training, Endocrinology, Chronic Diseases, Vital Signs, Biochemistry, Public Health, Mental Health
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

National Academy of Sports Medicine
Skills you'll gain: Exercise Science, Kinesiology, Sports Medicine, Human Musculoskeletal System, Respiration, Physiology, Neurology, Mechanics, Injury Prevention, Anatomy, Medical Terminology, Nutrition and Diet
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Duke University
Skills you'll gain: Neurology, Physiology, Anatomy, Cell Biology, Psychology, Pathology, Molecular Biology
Advanced · Course · 3 - 6 Months
Physiology is the branch of biology that focuses on the functions and mechanisms of living organisms. It explores how various systems within the body work together to maintain life, from cellular processes to organ functions. Understanding physiology is crucial because it provides insights into how the body responds to different stimuli, how diseases affect bodily functions, and how various treatments can restore health. This knowledge is foundational for fields such as medicine, sports science, and health care, making it essential for anyone interested in these areas.‎
A background in physiology opens up various career opportunities. You might consider roles such as a clinical research coordinator, exercise physiologist, or health educator. Additionally, positions in healthcare, such as a physician assistant or physical therapist, often require a solid understanding of physiological principles. Research roles in academic or pharmaceutical settings are also viable paths. Each of these positions leverages knowledge of how the human body functions, making physiology a valuable asset in your career toolkit.‎
To succeed in physiology, you should develop a strong foundation in biological sciences, particularly anatomy and biochemistry. Critical thinking and analytical skills are essential for interpreting data and understanding complex systems. Familiarity with laboratory techniques and research methodologies will also enhance your capabilities. Additionally, communication skills are important for conveying complex information clearly, whether in writing or verbally, especially in collaborative environments like healthcare or research.‎
There are several excellent online courses available for studying physiology. For a comprehensive understanding, consider the Human Anatomy & Physiology I Specialization and Human Anatomy & Physiology II Specialization. These programs cover essential concepts and provide a solid foundation in both anatomy and physiology. For a more interactive experience, the Interactive 3D Anatomy & Physiology: A Gamified Experience Specialization offers engaging learning through gamification.‎
Yes. You can start learning physiology on Coursera for free in two ways:
If you want to keep learning, earn a certificate in physiology, or unlock full course access after the preview or trial, you can upgrade or apply for financial aid.‎
Learning physiology can be approached through various methods. Start with foundational courses that cover basic concepts and gradually move to more specialized topics. Utilize online platforms like Coursera to access structured courses that include video lectures, quizzes, and interactive content. Supplement your learning with textbooks and scientific articles to deepen your understanding. Engaging in discussions with peers or joining study groups can also enhance your learning experience.‎
Typical topics covered in physiology courses include cellular physiology, organ systems, homeostasis, and the physiological responses to exercise and stress. Courses often explore the cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and nervous systems, among others. Additionally, you may study the integration of these systems and how they interact to maintain overall health. Understanding these topics is essential for anyone pursuing a career in health sciences or related fields.‎
For training and upskilling employees in the healthcare or fitness sectors, courses like Anatomy, Physiology, and Kinesiology for Fitness Professions can be particularly beneficial. These courses provide practical knowledge that can be directly applied in professional settings. Additionally, interactive courses such as The Heart of the Matter: Exploring the Cardiovascular System offer engaging ways to understand complex physiological concepts, making them suitable for workforce training.‎