Online Class: Anatomy and Physiology 101

This dynamic course unravels the marvels of the human body, offering insights into cellular functions and organ systems for students, professionals, and curious minds alike. Anatomy and Physiology 101 empowers learners through interactive lessons that blend theory with real-world examples, fostering a deep appreciation for the biological systems that support life.

Self-Paced, Online Class
Library Subscription
 
  • 17
    Lessons
  • 41
    Exams &
    Assignments
  • 7
    Hours
    average time
  • 0.7
    CEUs
 
 
 

Course Description

Are you ready to embark on a journey through the incredible complexities of the human body? With Anatomy and Physiology 101, you're not just signing up for an online course-you're stepping into an adventure that will unravel the wonders of how our bodies are built and how they work to keep us alive and thriving. Whether you are an aspiring healthcare professional, a curious learner, or someone seeking to make a career shift into the medical field, this course is crafted to provide you with a comprehensive, engaging, and profound understanding of the human organism.

Why Should You Take This Course?

The human body is an extraordinary machine, a marvel of nature that has fascinated scientists, doctors, and thinkers for centuries. From the intricacies of cellular functions to the synergy of entire organ systems, every aspect of our biology works in harmony to sustain life. In a world where medical and biological sciences are advancing faster than ever before, a fundamental knowledge of anatomy and physiology isn't just important-it's empowering.

This course is designed to make that empowerment accessible to everyone. Whether you're a high school student preparing for future studies, a college student looking to deepen your knowledge, or an adult eager to revisit or expand your understanding, Anatomy and Physiology 101 is tailored to meet your needs. It's self-paced, interactive, and packed with insights that will stay with you long after the course is completed.

Imagine understanding how your heart keeps you going, how your lungs oxygenate your blood, or how your brain interprets every sight, sound, and sensation. This course provides you with that insight, breaking down complex concepts into clear, engaging lessons that are designed to inspire curiosity and boost your knowledge.

What Can You Expect?

Our course goes beyond the surface to offer a deep dive into the systems that make up the human body. You'll begin with the basic principles of anatomy and physiology, laying the foundation for the more intricate systems to come. From learning about the building blocks of life-the cells-to understanding how tissues, organs, and entire systems function, you'll explore the marvels of the human body at every level.

But here's where it gets truly exciting. Unlike traditional textbooks or dry academic lectures, Anatomy and Physiology 101 is dynamic and interactive. Each lesson is designed to stimulate your curiosity and keep you engaged. You'll have access to a blend of videos, diagrams, and real-world examples that bring the subject matter to life. The course structure allows you to explore at your own pace, so whether you prefer to take your time or race ahead, the learning experience is yours to shape.

With 16 comprehensive lessons, the course covers everything from the protective functions of the integumentary system (your skin!) to the finely tuned operations of the nervous, cardiovascular, and respiratory systems. You'll not only learn about each system in isolation but also how they work together in perfect synchronization, maintaining the delicate balance that keeps us functioning.

You'll discover how muscles contract to move our bones, how sensory systems allow us to perceive the world around us, and even the intricacies of the reproductive system, which makes the continuation of life possible. Every part of the human body plays a critical role, and this course will leave you in awe of the magnificent biological symphony that is constantly at work within you.

Who is This Course For?

The beauty of Anatomy and Physiology 101 lies in its universal appeal. Whether you're a high school or college student aiming to improve your academic performance or an adult considering a transition into a healthcare-related career, this course is for you. It's also perfect for anyone who simply wants to gain a better understanding of how their body works-because the more we understand our bodies, the better we can care for them.

Perhaps you're an aspiring nurse, paramedic, or physician assistant, needing a foundational knowledge of human biology to excel in your career. Or maybe you're a seasoned professional looking for a refresher on the body's major systems. Whatever your motivation, this course provides a rich educational experience tailored to support your goals.

You don't need a background in science to succeed here. Our instructor has expertly designed the course to be clear, concise, and understandable, making complex biological processes accessible to learners of all levels. Plus, you'll have access to online support whenever you need help, so you're never alone in your journey.

What Makes This Course Unique?

One of the standout features of this course is its flexibility. You can enroll at any time and move through the material at your own pace. With 24/7 availability, you can study wherever and whenever it's convenient for you-whether that's on your laptop at home, your tablet at the coffee shop, or even your smartphone on your commute. The course is designed to be compatible with all modern devices, ensuring you have seamless access to your learning materials whenever inspiration strikes.

In addition, everything you need to succeed is provided upfront. You'll have instant access to printable lessons, videos, activities, and web links that deepen your understanding of key concepts. From multiple-choice quizzes to interactive essays, each assignment is crafted to reinforce what you've learned, ensuring you retain the knowledge long after the course is complete.

This course also offers a Certificate of Completion for those seeking to document their learning, whether for professional development or personal achievement. If you're aiming to work in a field where anatomy and physiology knowledge is critical, such as medical billing and coding, this certificate could be an essential addition to your resume.

Get Started Today-Your Future in Anatomy Awaits

Whether you're looking to dive deep into the workings of the human body, prepare for an academic challenge, or open the door to new career opportunities, Anatomy and Physiology 101 is your first step. Imagine the possibilities that come with a strong foundation in anatomy and physiology-whether that's excelling in medical school, improving patient care, or simply understanding how your own body functions on a deeper level.

With unlimited enrollment options and a supportive instructor, there's no reason to wait. The knowledge you gain here could not only change how you see yourself but could also be the stepping stone to an exciting future in the medical and biological sciences.

So why wait? Enroll today and unlock the secrets of the human body-one lesson at a time. The future of your learning starts now!

Who should take this course?

This anatomy course is ideal for anyone pursuing a science or medical degree and/or profession. It is a comprehensive, stand-alone course but has been revised to be as clear and concise as possible to also serve as a refresher. It covers all the need-to-know body systems and related functions in easy-to-understand language. 

Does this course have assignments and exams that are graded?

Yes, the course includes lesson assignments, lesson exams, and a final exam at the end that will cover all learned material. The assignments and exams help you master the learning objectives outlined in each lesson. It is not necessary to achieve a perfect score on every submission, and the instructor may allow additional retakes and resubmissions should you fail an assessment. It is important to note that this course is designed for you to succeed, and all exams and assignments are completely online and can be submitted on your own time and only when you feel ready to take them.

What exactly does this anatomy and physiology course cover?

This course covers all the major human body systems including the skeletal, integumentary, muscular, nervous, sensory, endocrine, cardiovascular, lymphatic, respiratory, digestive, urinary, and reproductive systems. Anatomy and physiology are the opposite sides of the same biological coin. Anatomy is the study of the body's internal and external structures while physiology studies the function of those structures, both singularly and in conjunction with one another. As such, this course covers both the structures and functions of body systems and all their related organs. The human body is extraordinarily complex, but this course is laid out in a unique way that simplifies much of this complexity for easy understanding and retention.

I'm interested in medical billing and coding, should I take this course as well?

If you are interested in becoming a medical coder, this course along with medical terminology is strongly recommended. Being able to identify body systems, organs, and their related functions is necessary when processing medical office/hospital health insurance claims.

I'm interesting in purchasing this course for my medical/paramedic/nursing/physician assistant/etc. program. How do I go about doing this?

If you are interested in purchasing this course to be used in your medical program, you should check out our group enrollments area where you can purchase courses in bulk and receive volume discounts as well as effortlessly enroll your students in the class and monitor their progression. 

Is there an instructor I can contact should I have a question about the course material?

Yes, there is an instructor available who will monitor your progress, assess your course activities, and answer any questions you have about the course curriculum. Don't worry, just because you're taking an online course, it doesn't mean you are on your own.

Will this course work on my smartphone/mobile device?

Yes, this course is compatible with your mobile device, tablet, laptop, or desktop computer. This course will work on any modern browser, regardless of the operating system (Mac, PC, iOS, Android). You can learn on the go or in the comfort of your home. 

What kind of documentation do I get after completing this course?

If you register for the CEU Certificate version of this course and pass the course with a 70% or higher overall grade, you'll receive a course completion certificate documenting your successful completion and CEUs. You can share and verify your CEU Certificate online with any third party, as well as download/print the PDF version of the certificate. 

Course Motivation

If you're eager to dive deep into the human body and truly understand how it works, this Anatomy and Physiology course is designed to offer a comprehensive exploration. Anatomy focuses on the body's structure, while physiology sheds light on how everything functions. Together, these two sciences give you a holistic view of the human organism—and this course is here to guide you through every layer.

This course covers the human body’s major systems, showing how they work in harmony to keep us alive and thriving. Whether you’re a student aiming to solidify your knowledge or an adult seeking to enhance your understanding for personal growth, career development, or pure curiosity, this course has something for everyone.

It’s a perfect fit for high school or college students, professionals considering a career shift into the medical or biological fields, or anyone simply fascinated by the inner workings of the body. By the end of the course, you’ll have a much clearer understanding of why our bodies function the way they do—and what happens when things go wrong.

The beauty of this class is its flexibility. Enrollment is always open, and the instructor is readily available to answer your questions. The lessons are structured to ensure you learn at your own pace, with all materials provided upfront—so you can jump in at any time.

With 16 lessons to guide you, you'll explore everything from identifying the body’s major systems to understanding key cells, tissues, and organs. This is not just about learning facts but about connecting the dots to see how all the pieces of the body fit and function together.

So, whether you’re preparing for an academic challenge or simply looking to expand your knowledge, this is the perfect place to start. Get ready to gain a new appreciation for the complexity of the human body. You can begin today and take the first step toward mastering the science of anatomy and physiology.

 
 

Course Lessons

Average Lesson Rating:
4.37 / 5 Stars (Average Rating)
"Extraordinarily Helpful"
(10,028 votes)

Lesson 1. The Dual Nature of Body Science: Anatomy and Physiology Explored

The human body is an intricate construct of cells, tissues, and organs unified in systems that maintain life's balance using homeostatic processes. Throughout history, anatomical insights have evolved significantly, paving the way for science's accurate understanding of form interlinked with function. Additional lesson topics: Introduction to Human Anatomy; Anatomical Terms; Science Was Alive and Well in the Dark Ages; Introduction to Structure and Function of the Body 86 Total Points
  • Lesson 1 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-1-HomeWork-13712.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: Reasons for Taking this Course
  • Complete Assignment: Introduce Yourself
  • Complete: Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Assignment
  • Assessment: Introduction to Anatomy and Physiology Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 1 Review Exam

Lesson 2. Exploring the Essence of Chemistry: Unveiling the Secrets of Matter and Its Interactions

Organic chemistry studies carbon-containing compounds, which form the basis of various essential macromolecules like carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids in living organisms. These macromolecules play crucial roles in energy storage, structural integrity, and genetic coding. Additional lesson topics: Covalent Bonds; Enzymes; Basic Chemistry and Biochemistry; Chemical Bonds; Difference beween compound and molecule; Nuclei Acids; What are proteins and what do they do?; Atoms; What is an element?; Lipids; ATP adenosine triphosphate 70 Total Points
  • Lesson 2 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-2-Downloadable-24294.pdf
  • Complete Assignment: Review of Basic Chemistry
  • Assessment: Basic Chemistry Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 2 Review Exam

Lesson 3. Understanding Life's Building Blocks: Cells and Their Functions

Essential organelles like the nucleus, mitochondria, and ribosomes orchestrate cellular activity, while processes like diffusion and active transport regulate material movement. Mitosis ensures identical daughter cell formation, whereas meiosis produces gametes, each vital for organismal growth and reproduction. Additional lesson topics: Cell Structure and Function; Cells The Basic Units of Life; Biology: Cell Structure 57 Total Points
  • Lesson 3 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-3-WordSearch-13715.pdf
  • Assessment: Cells Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 3 Review Exam

Lesson 4. Discovering Tissues: The Building Blocks of Life

Epithelial tissue lines and protects the body's surfaces, featuring closely packed cells in various layers and shapes, such as squamous, cuboidal, and columnar cells. This avascular tissue acts like armor across surfaces including skin, intestines, and other organs, constantly renewing through cell division. Additional lesson topics: Integumentary System : Types of Epithelial Tissues; Cells Tissues and Skin 67 Total Points
  • Lesson 4 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-4-WorkSheet-13716.pdf
  • Complete Assignment: Review of Tissues
  • Assessment: Tissue Quiz
  • Assessment: Lesson 4 Review Exam

Lesson 5. Exploring the Wonders of the Integumentary System

Comprising hair, nails, and skin, the integumentary system serves multifaceted roles from safeguarding internal organs to aiding in vitamin D production and immune response. The system integrates with other bodily functions, thanks to its layers—epidermis and dermis—which contribute to tasks like maintaining body temperature and sensory communication. Additional lesson topics: Integumentary System Overview; Integumentary System Review 70 Total Points
  • Lesson 5 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-5-WordSearch-13717.pdf
  • Assessment: The Integumentary System
  • Assessment: Lesson 5 Review Exam

Lesson 6. Bones and Joints: The Framework of Movement

The spine, composed of multiple types of vertebrae and cushioned by cartilage disks, facilitates movement and protects the spinal cord, while the thorax encases vital organs with ribs attaching to the sternum and thoracic vertebrae. The skull provides cranial protection and facial structure, with joints like sutures permitting minimal movement apart from the mobile mandible. Additional lesson topics: Skeletal System Structures and Functions; Skeletal System Overview; The Skeletal System In Depth 110 Total Points
  • Lesson 6 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-6-WorkSheet-13718.pdf
  • Complete: The Skeletal System Assignment
  • Assessment: The Skeletal System
  • Assessment: Lesson 6 Review Exam

Lesson 7. Unveiling the Secrets of Your Muscles

Muscles such as the 30 in the face or the large gluteus maximus in the buttocks drive diverse activities like expressing emotions or running. The brain dispatches signals to muscles, activating either voluntary movements like walking or involuntary ones like heartbeats, depending on muscle type. Additional lesson topics: get body smart; The Muscular System Review; Muscle Tissue; The Muscular System Overview 106 Total Points
  • Lesson 7 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-7-WorkSheet-13719.pdf
  • Complete: The Muscular System Assignment
  • Assessment: The Muscular System
  • Assessment: Lesson 7 Review Exam

Lesson 8. Exploring the Complexities of the Human Nervous System

Complex organisms like humans rely on the nervous system for coordination and reaction to stimuli, which single-cell organisms do not require. Comprised of the CNS and PNS, including various subdivisions, the nervous system manages both voluntary and involuntary functions. Additional lesson topics: Neurology; Autonomic Nervous System Introduction; Spinal Cord Segments; The Nervous System: Synapses; The Nervous System, Part 1; The Nervous System, Part 2; Autonomic Nervous System 120 Total Points
  • Lesson 8 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-8-HomeWork-13720.pdf
  • Complete: The Nervous System Assignment
  • Assessment: The Nervous System
  • Assessment: Lesson 8 Review Exam

Lesson 9. Perceiving the World: An Overview of Our Senses

Tears serve various protective and cathartic roles, with reflex, continuous, and emotional tears each performing distinct functions. Emotional tears help regulate stress by excreting hormones and toxins, potentially leading to feelings of relief. Additional lesson topics: Sensory System; How Sound is Transferred to the Inner Ear; The Sensory System; The Eyes 86 Total Points
  • Lesson 9 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-9-HomeWork-13721.pdf
  • Assessment: The Sensory System
  • Assessment: Lesson 9 Review Exam

Lesson 10. Secrets of the Ductless: Exploring the Endocrine System

The pituitary gland, dubbed the master gland, releases hormones affecting thyroid, adrenal, and reproductive organs, impacting growth, metabolism, and water balance. It works with the hypothalamus to regulate critical processes, including stress response and reproductive cycles. Additional lesson topics: Endoplasmic Reticulum; The Endocrine System; Hormones and the Endocrine System; Endocrinology 90 Total Points
  • Lesson 10 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-10-Activity-13722.pdf
  • Complete: The Endocrine System Assignment
  • Assessment: The Endocrine System
  • Assessment: Lesson 10 Review Exam

Lesson 11. The Superhighway of Life: Exploring the Intricacies of the Cardiovascular System

The cardiovascular system functions as a crucial network for nutrient, oxygen, and hormone distribution, while facilitating waste removal with the heart at its core. Blood travels through an intricate pathway of arteries, veins, and capillaries, propelled by the heart's rhythmic contractions and regulated by a series of precise valves. Additional lesson topics: The Heart, Structure and Function; Blood Vessel Anatomy; Understanding the Cardiovascular System; Human Circulatory System; The Heart Anatomy 42 Total Points
  • Lesson 11 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-11-WorkSheet-13723.pdf
  • Assessment: The Cardiovascular System
  • Assessment: Lesson 11 Review Exam

Lesson 12. Lymphatic System Mechanics

Key lymphatic organs include the thymus, which nurtures T cells, the spleen for blood filtration and response to pathogens, and tonsils which guard against inhaled or ingested pathogens. Individually specialized, these organs contribute to the overarching immune function of the lymphatic system. Additional lesson topics: The Lymphatic System Overview; The Lymphatic System Topics; Lymphatic System In Detail 70 Total Points
  • Lesson 12 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-12-Activity-13724.pdf
  • Assessment: The Lymphatic System
  • Assessment: Lesson 12 Review Exam

Lesson 13. Respiratory System Basics

Oxygen enters through nasal passages and reaches the spongy alveoli, revealing the vital role of the pleura-covered lungs. Air movement, also crucial for speaking, is regulated by the brain's respiratory center, ensuring these processes occur smoothly. Additional lesson topics: The Respiratory System In Depth; Respiratory System; Respiratory System Review; Respiratory Anatomy 89 Total Points
  • Lesson 13 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-13-Downloadable-13725.pdf
  • Assessment: The Respiratory System
  • Assessment: Lesson 13 Review Exam

Lesson 14. Digestion Uncovered

The human digestive system transforms food into nutrients and disposes of waste, involving a complex process through a 30-foot-long tract and various organs. Guided by nervous and hormonal signals, it orchestrates digestion, absorption, and waste excretion to maintain bodily functions. Additional lesson topics: Human Digestive System Overview; Digestive System By Functions 60 Total Points
  • Lesson 14 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-14-Downloadable-13728.pdf
  • Assessment: The Digestive System
  • Assessment: Lesson 14 Review Exam

Lesson 15. Journey Through the Urinary Tract

The urinary system is a crucial body function that processes waste through kidneys, forming urine comprising various waste substances and excess fluids. Nephrons play a vital role in filtering blood, maintaining a balance of bodily chemicals, and ultimately eliminating waste safely. Additional lesson topics: The Urinary System; Urinary System Overview; The Urinary System Components; The Kidneys; Urinary System In Detail 38 Total Points
  • Lesson 15 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-15-WordSearch-13733.pdf
  • Assessment: The Urinary System
  • Assessment: Lesson 15 Review Exam

Lesson 16. The Dance of DNA and Reproduction

Ovulation involves the release of eggs from ovaries into fallopian tubes where potential fertilization occurs; the unfertilized eggs are expelled during menstruation. If fertilized, the egg implants into the uterine lining, growing into a fetus within the protective amniotic sac and receiving sustenance from the placenta. Additional lesson topics: Sex and Fertilization; Female Reproductive System; The Reproductive System In Depth; Reproductive System; Pregnancy and Development; Male Reproductive System 58 Total Points
  • Lesson 16 Video
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-16-Activity-13738.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: End of Class Poll
  • Assessment: The Reproductive System
  • Assessment: Lesson 16 Review Exam

Lesson 17. Conquering the Final Challenge

Take your time to prepare before taking the Final Exam, ensuring you're ready to succeed. Best of luck in proving your capabilities! 332 Total Points
  • Review Practice Worksheet: Lesson-17-WordSearch-13745.pdf
  • Lesson discussions: End of Course Poll; Program Evaluation Follow-up Survey (End of Course); Course Comments
  • Assessment: The Final Exam
1551
Total Course Points
 

Learning Outcomes

By successfully completing this course, students will be able to:
  • Define the structural levels of the human body from atoms to organ systems and explain their increasing complexity.
  • Identify and describe the major organ systems and their primary functions in maintaining homeostasis and life.
  • Demonstrate an understanding of the periodic table by determining the atomic number and atomic mass of an element to identify its chemical properties.
  • Recognize the composition and structure of atoms by identifying the three subatomic particles: protons, electrons, and neutrons.
  • Describe the structural differences between prokaryotic and eukaryotic cells and their implications for cellular functions.
  • Explain the role of organelles in eukaryotic cells and how they contribute to cellular processes like protein synthesis and energy production.
  • Describe the role and key components of connective tissue, including its fibers, cells, and intercellular matrix, and how these contribute to its function in various body locations.
  • Recognize and classify the four main tissue types—connective, nervous, epithelial, and muscle,—based on their structure and function within the human body.
  • Identify the layers and specialized cells of the skin and explain their contributions to overall integumentary system function.
  • Recognize and describe the functions and roles of the integumentary system in protecting and regulating the human body.
  • Demonstrate understanding of how the axial and appendicular skeletal divisions contribute to human movement and organ protection.
  • Identify and describe the four different types of bones and their specific functions within the skeletal system.
  • Recognize the three types of muscle tissues in the human body and describe their functions and characteristics.
  • Demonstrate mastery of lesson content at levels of 70% or higher.
 

Additional Course Information

Online CEU Certificate
  • Document Your Lifelong Learning Achievements
  • Earn an Official Certificate Documenting Course Hours and CEUs
  • Verify Your Certificate with a Unique Serial Number Online
  • View and Share Your Certificate Online or Download/Print as PDF
  • Display Your Certificate on Your Resume and Promote Your Achievements Using Social Media
Document Your CEUs on Your Resume
 
Course Title: Anatomy and Physiology 101
Course Number: 8900157
Lessons Rating: 4.37 / 5 Stars (10,028 votes)
Languages: English - United States, Canada and other English speaking countries
Availability: This course is accessible online throughout all states, including California, Texas, Florida, New York, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Ohio, and Georgia. It's also available in top English-speaking countries like the United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Last Updated: January 2024
CEU Value: 0.7 IACET CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
CE Accreditation: Universal Class, Inc. has been accredited as an Authorized Provider by the International Association for Continuing Education and Training (IACET).
Grading Policy: Earn a final grade of 70% or higher to receive an online/downloadable CEU Certification documenting CEUs earned.
Course Type: Self-Paced, Online Classes
Assessment Method: Lesson assignments and review exams
Syllabus: View Syllabus

Student Testimonials

  • "Amazing course! I used this as a refresher (I took Anatomy several years ago in college). The videos are direct and spot-on. Really appreciated also being able to print out the lesson materials with concise definitions linked to associated pictures. I was able to retain so much more information than any lecture or textbook out there. What a great learning resource! Great job!" -- Eric S.
  • "This was the most comprehensive course on human anatomy and physiology. Thank you!" -- Vita S.
  • "I appreciate the opportunity to complete this course; I consider this A&P course extremely helpful." -- Michele P.
  • "This course was insightful and really helped me learn more about A&P." -- Zachary M.
  • "I am thankful it was smooth and she gave great advice on studying." -- Bobbie W.
  • "I enjoyed this course and gained a lot of knowledge and understanding!" -- Dustin B.
  • "Thank you once again for all you help, time, energy and wisdom! I will be forever grateful for this terrific learning experience! Thank you, thank you, thank you!" -- Ami A.
  • "These courses I took were great because I don't have much time with work to got to school. I could take my time doing the courses I took...and it was such a wonderful laid out course." -- Georgina K.
  • "This course was an excellent learning experience for me. I never studied anatomy and physiolgy in school so it was a challenge for me. I enjoyed the feedback by the instructors who seem very knowledgeable." -- Michael I.
  • "I found every lesson very helpful. All the lessons were broken down to layman's term to better understand each part associated with it." -- Michael I.
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