Physiology is a scientific discipline within the field of biology that examines bodily function of animals, including humans. It focuses on how cells, molecules, organ systems, and other parts of the body work together. It's commonly paired with anatomy, the study of bodily structures because the two go hand-in-hand. It would be tough to study the structure of the body without also studying how that structure functions. That's why anatomy and physiology are common requirements as part of students' preparation for careers in medicine and health sciences.

Why is it important to learn about physiology?

Taking a course in physiology gives you the necessary skills for a career in the healthcare industry in addition to providing valuable insight into how the human body and all living beings function. You'll better understand how all systems in the body work together. In turn, you'll discover how to provide the best care possible. Studying physiology lets you gain a firmer grasp on how each organ works and the impact of disease on the body.

What are typical careers that use physiology?

Common careers built upon a foundation in physiology include lab technicians, research assistants, surgical technicians, medical assistants, and medical writers. You might work in a hospital setting, or you could work with governmental research centers, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology startups, or universities. It's also a strong foundation to advance your education to become a doctor, physician's assistant, dentist, physical therapist, or nurse. Additionally, you could go in a different direction to pursue a career in research, administration, policy, or health law.

How can online courses on Coursera help me learn physiology?

Online courses on Coursera provide a thorough introduction to the skills and knowledge needed to understand physiology, with a mix of readings, projects, videos, and active learning assessments. You'll have access to courses in a range of Specializations and skill levels from beginner to advanced, enabling you to start your pursuit of a new career or step your existing one up. In addition to being self-paced, our physiology courses are provided by well-respected individuals and institutions, including Duke University, University of Colorado Boulder, Saint Petersburg State University, and Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology.

What are the benefits of taking an online Physiology course?

Online Physiology courses offer a convenient and flexible way to enhance your knowledge or learn new Physiology skills. Choose from a wide range of Physiology courses offered by top universities and industry leaders tailored to various skill levels.

What Physiology courses are best for training and upskilling employees or the workforce?

When looking to enhance your workforce's skills in Physiology, it's crucial to select a course that aligns with their current abilities and learning objectives. Our Skills Dashboard is an invaluable tool for identifying skill gaps and choosing the most appropriate course for effective upskilling. For a comprehensive understanding of how our courses can benefit your employees, explore the enterprise solutions we offer. Discover more about our tailored programs at Coursera for Business here .

Top Physiology Courses - Learn Physiology Online

Status: Free

Duke University

Introductory Human Physiology

Skills you'll gain: Respiration, Anatomy, Vital Signs, Life Sciences, General Medicine, Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR)

Rice University

Human Anatomy & Physiology I

Skills you'll gain: Anatomy, Kinesiology, Medical Terminology, Physical Therapy, Clinical Psychology, Life Sciences, General Medicine, Physical Science, Psychology

Rice University

Human Anatomy & Physiology II

Skills you'll gain: Respiration, Anatomy, Electocardiography, General Medicine, General Medical Tests and Procedures, Vital Signs, Internal Medicine, Medical Terminology, Infectious Diseases

Status: Free

University of Pennsylvania

Vital Signs: Understanding What the Body Is Telling Us

Skills you'll gain: Vital Signs, Respiration, Health Assessment, Anatomy, Health Care, Patient Treatment

Status: Free

The University of Chicago

Understanding the Brain: The Neurobiology of Everyday Life

Skills you'll gain: Psychology, Life Sciences, Anatomy, Behavioral Health, Non-Verbal Communication, Respiration, Mental and Behavioral Health Specialties, Vital Signs, Disabilities, Medical Terminology, Medical Science and Research

University of Colorado Boulder

Science of Exercise

Skills you'll gain: Kinesiology, Physical Therapy, Behavioral Health, Health Assessment, Preventative Care, Blood Pressure, Respiration, Anatomy, Life Sciences, Stress Management, Vital Signs, Injury Prevention, Pharmaceuticals, Risk Analysis

University of Michigan

Anatomy

Skills you'll gain: Anatomy, Respiration, Kinesiology, Life Sciences, Vital Signs, Health Systems, Physical Therapy, Medical Terminology, Psychology, Clinical Experience, Structural Analysis, General Medicine

New York University

Engineering Health: Introduction to Yoga and Physiology

Skills you'll gain: Respiration, Stress Management, Research, Science and Research, Health Systems, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Blood Pressure, Research Reports, Medical Science and Research, Preventative Care, Health Assessment, Behavioral Health, Vital Signs, Anatomy, Life Sciences, Mental Health, Mental and Behavioral Health Specialties, Analytical Skills, Self-Awareness

Yale University

Anatomy of the Upper and Lower Extremities

Skills you'll gain: Anatomy, Kinesiology, Physical Therapy, Structural Analysis, Medical Terminology

MedCerts

Medical Terminology, Anatomy, and Physiology Fundamentals

Skills you'll gain: Medical Terminology, Medical Records, Anatomy, Health Information Management and Medical Records, Vital Signs, Medical Science and Research, Health Care, Physical Therapy, Nursing, General Medicine, Respiration, Radiology, Life Sciences

Status: Free

Duke University

Medical Neuroscience

Skills you'll gain: Anatomy, Medical Science and Research, Life Sciences, Medical Terminology, Psychiatry, Psychology, Behavioral Health, Radiology, Mental Health

Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai

Introduction to Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders

Skills you'll gain: Anatomy, Surgery, Physical Therapy, Internal Medicine, Health Assessment, Primary Care, Patient Treatment, Medical Terminology, Infectious Diseases, Health Care, General Medical Tests and Procedures, Treatment Planning, General Medicine, Behavior Management, Verbal Communication Skills, Disabilities, Radiology

Goals

Subjects

Filter by

Subject
Required

Language
Required

Learning Product
Required

Level
Required

Duration
Required

Skills
Required

Subtitles
Required

Educator
Required