Access to quality education has become more seamless than ever in the fast-paced digital era. Many people are learning a lot from online platforms as they follow new trends. The online education era leaves students with a lot of options to choose from.
As I delve through the fast seas of options, I will guide you on the best free medical courses online, thereby opening doors to a world of valuable learning experiences. These courses are easy to access, so you can take them from anywhere. They are flexible, and you can access them from anywhere you like.
If you are a healthcare professional, these courses provide continuing medical education credit (CME credit) based on the length and depth of the activities. In many parts of the world, healthcare professionals need to keep earning CME credit regularly.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) said doctors and surgeons usually make $110.24 per hour and $229,300 per year. The BLS expects the number of doctors and surgeons hired to increase by 3% from 2022 to 2032, which is similar to most jobs.
Each year, about 24,200 job openings will be available for doctors and surgeons. For more information about the wages of doctors, see Physicians and Surgeons: Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Keep reading this article to get more information about the best free medical courses online.
10 Best Free Medical Courses Online
Here are the best free medical courses online, handpicked by me at Bing Educate after lots of research. Join me as I give details about these courses.
- Introductory Human Physiology
- Anatomy Specialization
- Medical Neuroscience
- Diploma in Human Anatomy and Physiology
- Diploma in Neurophysiology and Neuro-Instrumentation
- Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP)
- Nutrition and Health: Micronutrients and Malnutrition
- Human Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Cases
- NCFE CACHE Level 2 Understanding the Safe Handling of Medication in Health and Social Care
- Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Care and Management of Diabetes
See also: 10 Best Free Online Medical Courses with Certificates in UK.
Introductory Human Physiology
Here is an overview of the course:
- Fees: you can freely enroll in this course.
- Learning platform: this course is available on Coursera.
- Course duration: you will complete it in approximately 35 hours.
Introductory Human Physiology is a course that is delivered in English. This course offers a detailed exploration of how the human body’s organs work together.
With top instructors like Jennifer Carbrey and Emma Jakoi, this educational endeavor beckons learners to unravel the secrets of human physiology.
Under the guidance of seasoned instructors Carbrey and Jakoi, participants will gain proficiency in recognizing the functionality of the body’s organ systems. The curriculum emphasizes applying the essential concepts governing integrated body function across the nine organ systems.
This course boasts a substantial enrollment of 480,419 individuals and aims to provide fundamental insights into the workings of the basic organ systems. To reinforce learning, the course includes 23 quizzes, ensuring participants grasp the intricacies of human physiology.
One of the advantages of this course is that it caters to beginners, requiring no prior experience. This course spans approximately 35 hours over three weeks, offering flexibility to learn at one’s own pace. For more information about this course, see Introductory Human Physiology.
Anatomy Specialization
Here is an overview of the course:
- Fees: this course is free. But if you want your certificate, you will need to pay a fee. However, you can get it with the help of financial aid.
- Learning platform: you can find this course on Coursera.
- Course duration: on average, you will complete it in 2 months.
Anatomy is a course that is taught in English and guided by instructors Kathleen Alsup, Kelli Sullivan, and Glenn M. Fox. It is an area of specialization that aims to equip learners with a profound understanding of the major organ systems, their functions, and their intricate relationship with the human body.
The core focus of this course is to help you understand the major organ systems, including the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular. Furthermore, it also gives a detailed understanding of the musculoskeletal, respiratory, urinary, nervous, reproductive, and endocrine systems. These different skills will help you confidently understand different aspects of human anatomy.
With an enrollment of 69,927 participants, the Anatomy Specialization is accessible through Coursera Plus, ensuring inclusivity with financial aid options. Also, this course is tailored towards beginners, requires no previous experience, and unfolds over two months, allowing learners to dedicate 10 hours a week at their own pace.
Upon successful completion of this course, participants receive a shareable certificate, a valuable addition to their LinkedIn profiles. Beyond this, this course also offers the opportunity to advance subject-matter expertise, providing a comprehensive grasp of key concepts and skills. A career certificate from the University of Michigan awaits those completing the 4-course series, solidifying their knowledge in the realm of human anatomy.
This course is one of the best medical courses you can opt for, even as a beginner. I also noticed that this course mixes detailed theory with practical use, including pictures, models, and maybe virtual dissection tools. This method helps students understand complex concepts more effectively. Additionally, you can regularly bring information to mind without the aid of materials. This helps to strengthen your memory. For more information about this course, see Anatomy Specialization.
Medical Neuroscience
Here is an overview of the course:
- Fees: this course is free to enroll in. If you want a certificate, there is a fee. Financial aid is available too.
- Learning platform: this course is available on Coursera.
- Course duration: this course is expected to take about 71 hours. It is meant to be finished in 3 weeks, with 23 hours per week.
Medical Neuroscience is a course that is designed to unravel the complexities of neurophysiology and clinical neuroanatomy. This course delves into the neural system responsible for sensation, bodily action, and the integration of sensorimotor signals with memory and emotion.
Comprising 18 modules organized into six units over 12 weeks, the course takes participants on a journey through neuroanatomy, neural signaling, sensory systems, motor systems, brain development, and cognition.
This course, instructed by the esteemed Leonard E. White, Ph.D., not only offers a comprehensive exploration of the central nervous system but also lays the groundwork for understanding the neurobiological underpinnings of human behavior.
This course provides a transformative learning experience because it has a dedicated, experienced instructor, a wide-ranging curriculum, and the chance to advance professionally with a career certificate.
Lastly, this course is full of information, interesting setups, and the chance to get a career certificate. It is a great choice for learners who want to learn a lot about neuroscience. For more information about this course, see Medical Neuroscience.
Diploma in Human Anatomy and Physiology
Here is an overview of the course:
- Fees: this is a free online course.
- Learning platform: this course is an online course available on Alison.
- Course duration: it is estimated to be completed in approximately 10–15 hours.
Diploma in Human Anatomy and Physiology stands as a beacon for those eager to unravel the complexities of the human body. This course delves into the cardiovascular, respiratory, reproductive, skeletal, and nervous systems, among others.
With an impressive enrollment of 91,783 learners, this course caters to individuals seeking a comprehensive understanding of human anatomy and physiology.
Moreover, this course unfolds through modules that systematically cover key aspects of the human body’s functioning. From an introduction to the cardiovascular system to a detailed exploration of the digestive system, each module is crafted to provide a comprehensive understanding of a specific physiological system.
As a participant, you will progress through the course and achieve specific learning outcomes, gaining expertise in areas such as the circulatory system, blood transport, responses to hemorrhage, digestion, absorption, and elimination.
Each module culminates in a lesson summary, consolidating the acquired knowledge and reinforcing the understanding of the intricacies of human anatomy and physiology.
As a CPD-accredited program, it not only provides valuable knowledge but also certifies the skills acquired, offering a pathway to stand out in a competitive landscape. It also serves as a valuable addition to a resume.
I noticed that people like this course because it has great content. Learners have mentioned that it is “powerful and wonderful” and goes beyond what they expected. For more information about this course, see Diploma in Human Anatomy and Physiology.
Diploma in Neurophysiology and Neuro-Instrumentation
Here is an overview of the course:
- Fees: this online course is free.
- Learning platform: you have the option to enroll in this course on Alison.
- Course duration: you can complete it in approximately 15–20 hours.
Diploma in Neurophysiology and Neuro-Instrumentation is a course presented by Alison with a commendable enrollment of 5,009 learners who embark on a journey into the realm of neurophysiology, unraveling the mysteries of the central nervous system.
This course, spanning 15–20 hours of learning, explore the multifaceted role of the human brain in shaping thoughts, emotions, sensory perceptions, and motor functions.
Neurophysiology, the study of the central nervous system, converges with neuro-instrumentation, the process of scanning, recording, and interpreting brain activity through a holistic approach. This course examines the complexities of this remarkable organ, which defines our identity and influences our behavior.
Furthermore, it also presents a learning outcome, from understanding the cellular structure of the central nervous system to delving into the fundamentals of electrophysiology and neuronal biophysics. In addition to the aforementioned features of the course, you will also gain valuable insights into the mechanisms that govern the brain’s functioning.
As a program that is CPD-accredited, it does not just teach you stuff; it also gives you a certificate for the skills you learn. This makes it special because it helps learners shine in the tough field of neuroscience. This certificate also serves as a tangible asset for professional growth. For more information about the course, see Diploma in Neurophysiology and Neuro-Instrumentation.
See also: Hand-picked Best Free Health Care Assistant Courses Online.
Bloodborne Pathogens (BBP)
Here is an overview of the course:
- Fees: you can learn this course for free.
- Learning platform: you can learn this course on Alison.
- Duration: on average, students complete this course in 1.5–3 hours.
Bloodborne Pathogens (BPP) has garnered the participation of 27,708 learners, underscoring the significance of this vital training.
This course is provided to address health concerns arising from exposure to bloodborne pathogens and provides comprehensive training on detection, response, and appropriate measures to be taken when dealing with germs in people’s blood.
Beginning with an introduction to bloodborne pathogens, the modules progress to topics such as protecting yourself from BBPs, guidelines for coming into contact with blood, proper cleanup procedures, and reporting exposure incidents.
Mandated annually by OSHA, this course ensures that healthcare professionals are well-versed in identifying BPPs and responding effectively, often necessitating proper referral protocols.
Upon completion, you will have the opportunity to apply for certification, gaining. international accreditation that signifies your competence in handling bloodborne pathogens.
As a CPD-accredited program, this course serves as an essential annual requirement set forth by the U.S. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA).
A distinctive feature of this program is its CPD accreditation, which will offer you a recognized certificate upon successful completion. This certification not only validates the skills acquired but also serves as a valuable addition to resumes, signaling competence to potential employers. Knowledge is the key, and there is more to unlock about this course. For information about this course, see Learn how to Work with Bloodborne Pathogens in this free online course.
Nutrition and Health: Micronutrients and Malnutrition
Here is an overview of the course:
- Fees: the course is free, but there is an optional upgrade you can choose.
- Learning platform: it is available on edX.
- Course duration: the course is structured to be finished within 7 weeks, with an approximate commitment of 6–8 hours per week.
Nutrition and Health: Macronutrients and Malnutrition, provided by Wageningen University and Research. It gives a comprehensive explanation of the relationship between nutrition and human health.
With enrollment numbers soaring to 232,728, this course is a guide for individuals who want to understand the secrets of nutrition and how it affects our bodies.
Led by Professor Sander Kersten, a distinguished figure in the field of human nutrition, this course delves into the fundamental chemistry of macronutrients: fat, carbohydrate, and protein.
If you enroll in this course, you will also understand the absorption, storage, and metabolism processes of the essential components of our diet.
One of the focal points of this course is that it provides a solid foundation in food and nutrition, equipping participants with essential skills to navigate the complexities of nutrition-related challenges.
Through expert instruction, self-paced learning, and graded assignments, participants emerge not only with a deeper understanding of macronutrients but also with a shareable certificate upon successful completion, validating their expertise in the field. To get more information about the course, see Nutrition and Health: Macronutrients and Malnutrition.
Human Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Cases
Here is an overview of the course:
- Fees: the course is free to check out, but you can choose to upgrade if you want.
- Learning platform: if you want to enroll in this course, it is available on edX.
- Course duration: the course takes 7 weeks to complete, and you need to dedicate 3–6 hours per week to it.
Human anatomy serves as the cornerstone of medical understanding and practice, offering invaluable insights into the human body’s structure and function.
With enrollment figures soaring to 245,338, the HarvardX course on Human Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Cases stands as a testament to how much people are interested in learning about the human body. It is proof that knowing about anatomy is important in medicine.
This course will take you through common musculoskeletal injuries found in hospitals. With a carefully chosen curriculum, you will explore each case in detail. You will also learn a lot about diagnosing, treating, and caring for patients.
One of the standing points of this course is that it offers participants the opportunity to engage in virtual operating room experiences, where they witness narrated videos of actual surgical procedures.
This immersive component provides participants with a comprehensive understanding of the surgical interventions employed in treating musculoskeletal injuries, fostering a holistic approach to patient care. For more information about this course, see Human Anatomy: Musculoskeletal Cases.
NCFE CACHE Level 2 Understanding the Safe Handling of Medication in Health and Social Care
Here is an overview of the course:
- Fees: it is free of charge.
- Learning platform: this comprehensive course is available on ReedCourses.
- Course duration: it is scheduled to be completed in 7 weeks.
Understanding the Safe Handling of Medication in Health and Social Care is a building block of responsible caregiving. CT Skills Limited, in collaboration with NCFE CACHE, offers a transformative learning experience in this course.
This online course is based remotely and serves as a vital resource for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of medication handling in a healthcare setting. It is designed for residents in England, and it ensures accessibility through online study methods, offering a self-paced learning format over a 7-week duration.
If you enroll in this course, you will have access to reading materials in PDF or e-book format, providing flexibility and convenience. Access to course content is granted until completion, allowing learners to tailor their study schedule to personal commitments.
After successful completion of the course, you will be awarded the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Safe Handling of Medication in Health and Social Care (RQF), a regulated qualification by NCFE CACHE and accredited by the CPD Certification Service.
The benefits of this course extend beyond qualification attainment, aiming to enhance participants’ understanding of medication handling and its impact.
By achieving a nationally recognized Level 2 qualification, you can further theorize your personal and professional development, acquiring essential skills to support individuals effectively in a healthcare setting. For more information about the course, see ncfe cache level 2 understanding the safe handling of medication in health and social care.
Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Care and Management of Diabetes
Here is an overview of the course:
- Fees: you do not need any money to enroll in the course.
- Learning platform: you can enroll in the course on ReedCourses.
- Course duration: you can complete this self-paced course in approximately 7 weeks.
Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Care and Management of Diabetes is a comprehensive online course spanning 7 weeks and accessible at the learner’s own pace.
This course is regulated by Ofqual and awarded by CACHE. It shows a dedication to maintaining high standards in diabetes care. Importantly, this course is available for free to individuals living in England.
Diabetes is a global health concern, and the Level 2 Certificate course addresses its prevention, delay, and management through simple lifestyle changes. Whether you are working in the care sector or are interested in safeguarding your health or that of others, this course provides essential knowledge.
The course content is designed to provide evidence of staff competency to external stakeholders. It holds relevance in a wide variety of care settings, reducing the risk of malpractice and negligence.
The knowledge gained from this course opens doors to various career paths in health and social care. Graduates can pursue roles such as social care workers or even occupational health nurses. For more information about this course, see Free Online Level 2 Certificate in Understanding the Care and Management of Diabetes.
FAQs Related to Free Medical Courses Online
Can I study medicine online?
While some aspects of medical education may be available online, pursuing a complete medical degree online is generally not common. Medical education often involves hands-on clinical training, which is challenging to replicate in an online setting.
Which course is best for medical students?
The best course for medical students often depends on individual career goals and interests. Common specializations include internal medicine, surgery, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, and more.
What is the easiest medical course to study?
There is not a universally easy medical course, as all medical programs are rigorous and demanding. However, the difficulty can vary based on personal strengths and interests.
What is the fastest online healthcare degree to get?
Online healthcare degree programs vary, but some options are relatively quick. They include healthcare administration, medical coding, or medical assisting. These programs often focus on specific skills and may have shorter durations compared to more comprehensive healthcare degrees like nursing or medicine.
Conclusion
In conclusion, online medical courses have emerged as a transformative force, providing a gateway to knowledge and skills essential for healthcare professionals and enthusiasts alike.
From specialized diplomas in neurophysiology and dental radiography to comprehensive programs like the University of Michigan’s Anatomy Specialization and Duke University’s Medical Neuroscience, these courses offer diverse avenues for learning.
Keep in mind that I only conducted general research to write this article, so you may want to carry out a more personalized research before you make your choice.
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