Astrobiology and the Search for Extraterrestrial Life

A genuine science course on one of humanity's biggest open questions

Taught by The University of Edinburgh, this course explores the origin and evolution of life on Earth as a foundation for understanding where else in the universe life might exist. It's a popular pick for the scientifically curious, with 92,941 learners enrolled.

Rather than staying speculative, the course is grounded in real scientific methods: biochemistry, microbiology, and molecular and cellular biology form the evidence base for astrobiology's central questions, backed by genuine research and experimentation rather than science-fiction framing.

Who it's for

• Curious learners with an interest in biology, environmental science, or space
• Anyone who wants rigorous science communication on an inherently speculative topic
• Students looking for an engaging elective alongside more technical coursework

Expect a genuine science course grounded in biology and research methods, not pop-science speculation.