What is anatomy and physiology, and why does it matter in nursing?

Anatomy and physiology (A&P) is the study of how the human body is structured and how it functions. In this course, you’ll learn how anatomy and physiology relate to nursing, from interpreting vital signs to understanding how different body systems interact in illness and recovery.

What’s the best way to learn anatomy and physiology if I don’t have a science background?

This course is designed to make A&P accessible and practical, even if you’ve never studied it before. With immersive 3D models, real-life case examples, and simplified explanations, you’ll build confidence in understanding how the body works and how that knowledge applies to patient care.

What makes this anatomy and physiology course different?

Unlike traditional science-heavy courses, this one focuses on the basics of anatomy and physiology through a nursing lens. You won’t just learn what the organs do, you’ll learn how that knowledge supports everyday clinical decisions, patient assessments, and person-centered care.

Will this course help me prepare for nursing school or healthcare training?

Yes! This course is ideal for learners preparing to enter nursing school or clinical placements. You’ll gain a strong foundation in the body’s systems and how they relate to nursing, giving you a head start in your studies or career change into healthcare.

When will I have access to the lectures and assignments?

To access the course materials, assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience when you enroll in a course. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid. The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.

What will I get if I subscribe to this Specialization?

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. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile.

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.

Inside the Human Body: The A&P Essentials Every Nurse Needs

Inside the Human Body: The A&P Essentials Every Nurse Needs

This course is part of Nursing Fundamentals: Key Skills Training with 3D Simulation Specialization

Instructors: Hilary Gupte

Included with

Learn more

2 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Beginner level

Recommended experience

2 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

2 modules

Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.

Beginner level

Recommended experience

2 hours to complete

Flexible schedule

Learn at your own pace

What you'll learn

Understand how anatomy and physiology relate to nursing assessments and safe care decisions
Recognize how body systems work together and apply this knowledge to identify patient needs and risks
Use A&P knowledge to explain symptoms, guide clinical observations, and support holistic patient care

Details to know

Shareable certificate

Add to your LinkedIn profile

Assessments

2 assignments

Taught in English

See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills

Learn more about Coursera for Business

logos of Petrobras, TATA, Danone, Capgemini, P&G and L'Oreal

Build your subject-matter expertise

This course is part of the Nursing Fundamentals: Key Skills Training with 3D Simulation Specialization

When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.

Learn new concepts from industry experts
Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
Earn a shareable career certificate

There are 2 modules in this course

Understanding how the body works animates every nursing decision. This course introduces basic anatomy and physiology (A&P) through a nursing lens, helping learners connect biological systems to clinical care. You’ll explore the structure and function of key organs and systems, learn anatomical terminology, and understand key principles like homeostasis.

You’ll also gain an understanding of how anatomy and physiology relate to nursing in practice by applying A&P knowledge. Using the nursing process as a framework, you’ll discover how physiological principles inform patient assessments, care planning, and clinical decision-making. Through system-by-system lessons, on the cardiovascular, respiratory, musculoskeletal, and gastrointestinal systems, you’ll learn to spot warning signs, interpret observations, and support patients. Designed for future nurses and healthcare professionals, this course combines 3D models, case studies, and practical scenarios. You’ll understand how anatomy and physiology underpin safe, compassionate, and effective care. Whether you’re preparing for nursing school, placements, or a healthcare career, this course builds the skills to see the whole patient.