Learn about the human brain with online courses and programs
What is the human brain?
The human brain is a complex organ that controls what we do, say, feel, and think. Inside the brain, networks of neurons communicate with one another, which results in our ability to make decisions and coordinate our actions.
Each part of the brain is responsible for a specific function. It is typically divided into two hemispheres, each of which includes a frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital lobe. Paradoxically, the right hemisphere controls the left side of the body, and the left hemisphere has control of the right side.
Our brains also house our emotions, feelings, and thoughts. While scientists have been able to locate the areas for processing speech and motor functions, selfhood, personality, and other mysteries are waiting to be uncovered. By embarking on a study of the human brain, you can help contribute to remarkable discoveries in neuroscience.
Browse online human brain courses
Human brain course curriculum
Are you curious about the wonders of the human brain? Whether you want to learn for personal reasons, or you’re pursuing a career related to the brain, edX has you covered. One of the best ways to get started is by learning the fundamentals of neuroscience. This can cover topics such as:
How sensory perception works in the brain
How the physiology of vision, hearing, taste, smell, touch, motor control, and other senses work
The basic anatomy of functional areas of the brain
The visual system of the brain
How the motor subsystems of the brain execute and coordinate our movement
The critical brain systems that keep us alive
Learners who want to focus on a particular aspect or region of the brain might explore courses that focus on functions like vision, spatial processing, or navigation. Studying the human brain can also be beneficial for personal development, such as understanding how you learn best.
Learning about the human brain can supplement your knowledge of biology and neuroscience. edX offers a variety of educational opportunities for learners interested in studying these topics, as well as a host of other disciplines. A boot camp can provide flexible hands-on learning for those who want to upskill quickly, while executive education courses are designed for busy professionals. You can also pursue a more comprehensive curriculum in a bachelor’s degree program or, for more advanced learners, a master’s degree program. Find the right learning path for you.
Explore jobs involving the human brain
There are many jobs and career paths available to people with knowledge of the human brain. Supplemented with additional skills, you may be able to pursue the following roles:
Neurologist: Treats brain disorders, such as epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, and other neurological conditions.Footnote 1
Clinical psychologist: Diagnoses and treats mental, emotional, and behavioral disorders.Footnote 2
User experience (UX) designer: Applies principles of neuroscience to the development of digital interfaces for an optimal user experience.Footnote 3
Behavioral economist: Studies the brain’s influence on economic decision making through a lens of psychology, economics, and neuroscience.Footnote 4
AI programmer: Designs artificial neural networks that behave similarly to those of the human brain.Footnote 5
Each of these roles will have different education and skills requirements. For example, you may be able to build relevant skills in a coding boot camp. However, some employers may seek candidates with a degree in engineering depending on the role. Before deciding on a specific learning path, research the positions you hope to pursue and align your coursework with your career goals.