Biology courses

Biology is the study of living organisms, from microscopic bacteria to complex ecosystems. It’s divided into key disciplines such as human biology, microbiology, zoology, and botany—each exploring how life develops, evolves, and functions.

It’s a foundational science that supports other branches of science, like medicine, environmental science, and biotechnology. By understanding biological systems, science can help solve worldwide issues like disease and climate change.

A biology course covers the fundamental principles of life. From molecular structures and genetics to evolution and environmental systems, it delves into the building blocks of life. Depending on the course you choose, you could specialise in areas like:

• Human biology

• Marine science

• Microbiology

You can also take a generalist approach and cover multiple specialties.

Your biology course may also include practical components, like lab work or field studies. This allows you to apply your knowledge in real-world settings.

Entry requirements vary depending on the university, and the course level you’re looking at. Sometimes, a biology degree requires prior study in science or mathematics.

However, through Open Universities Australia, you can get started with no entry requirements across a range of single subjects. Read the entry requirements on each course page before enrolling to ensure you’re eligible, better yet, speak with a student advisor by booking a consultation.

The length of a biology course depends on the course itself. If you choose to study a single subject through Open Universities Australia, you can finish in as little as 12 weeks. Apply for a degree instead, and you can expect to study for a few years.

Studying biology can open doors to a range of careers in science. The knowledge gained in an online biology degree can be applied in many scientific disciplines, like health, environmental science, and forensic science.

Biology is also closely linked to other areas of science, including chemistry and physics. This makes it a valuable topic for anyone interested in understanding how life works at every level.

A biology degree can lead to careers in research, healthcare, education, and environmental science. Careers you could find yourself in include:

• Biologist

• Laboratory technician

• Microbiologist

• Environmental scientist

• Forensic scientist

• Biology teacher

A biology degree can also help tick off the prerequisite you need for further study. Postgraduate study options include areas like medicine and pharmacology, as well as pursuing a PhD.   Not sure if a biology course is the right fit? If you’re interested in health, consider exploring the public health courses or nursing courses on offer, which might be more aligned with your goals.

Enrol in a single subject to get a taste of the content for any qualification you’re interested in. The subjects available through us are covered by HELP funding, which means eligible students aren’t obligated to pay for their studies upfront.

Or book a free phone consultation with a student advisor to discuss your available study options. We’ll help you find the course that suits you best.

Enrolling online is simple. Here’s how it works:

1. Find your course

• Browse the options on this page.

• Use our comparison tool to explore the different choices.

• Need help? Book a free phone consultation with a student advisor for personalised guidance.

2. Start your enrolment

• When you’re ready, click ‘Start studying now’ on the course page.

• Follow the prompts to begin your enrolment.

• You’ll need to provide supporting documents, such as:

  • Proof of identity

  • Your tax file number

  • A Unique Student Identifier (USI)

3. Wait for confirmation

Your chosen university will email you to confirm if your enrolment has been successful.

Note: Some courses have enquiries and applications handled directly by the university. If this applies, it will be clearly stated on the course listing page.

For more details, check our online self-service enrolment guide. And if you need help at any stage, contact us and we’ll talk you through it.