How to learn physics?

Understanding your goal in learning physics, whether it’s for academic achievement, career development, or pure curiosity, will focus your studies. Regular study and problem-solving practice are crucial. Join study groups or online forums like Physics Stack Exchange for support. Work on real projects like conducting simple experiments or solving physics problems. Coursera’s How Things Work: An Introduction to Physics by University of Virginia offers a solid foundation in physics concepts.

What are the best physics courses on Coursera?

Top options include How Things Work: An Introduction to Physics from the University of Virginia , Physics 101 - Forces and Kinematics from Rice University , and Introduction to Electricity and Magnetism from Rice University . These courses cover classical mechanics , electromagnetism, thermodynamics , and modern physics concepts.

Can I learn physics for free on Coursera?

Yes. Many physics courses offer a free audit option. You can access video lectures and reading materials at no cost. To earn a certificate or complete graded assignments, you’ll need to pay or apply for financial aid.

What will I learn in a physics course on Coursera?

You’ll learn fundamental principles like motion, forces, energy, waves, electricity, magnetism , and modern topics like quantum mechanics and relativity . Some courses also focus on applying physics to real-world problems or preparing for advanced study in engineering and science .

Do I need a math or science background to take a physics course?

Many introductory physics courses are designed for beginners and start with the basics. However, some courses do require comfort with algebra , trigonometry , or calculus —especially in more technical or advanced topics. Course descriptions typically note any prerequisites.

Can learning physics on Coursera help me in school or my career?

Yes. Physics is foundational in fields like engineering , data science , astronomy , and technology. Coursera courses can support academic success, prepare you for STEM degrees, or help professionals refresh core concepts and analytical skills relevant to their field.

Top Physics Courses - Learn Physics Online

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Find the Best Physics Course for Your Goals

Yale University
Rocket Science for Everyone
Skills you'll gain: Global Positioning Systems, Geospatial Information and Technology, Geographic Information Systems, Physical Science, Spatial Analysis, Mechanics, Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
552 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Universidad de los Andes
Creación XR y Metaversos para todos
Skills you'll gain: Augmented and Virtual Reality (AR/VR), Prototyping, Virtual Reality, Usability Testing, Augmented Reality, Unity Engine, Virtual Environment, UI/UX Research, Cross Platform Development, User Interface (UI), Animation and Game Design, Game Design, Unreal Engine, Interaction Design, User Experience, C# (Programming Language), Development Environment, Display Devices, Development Testing, Experience Design
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
19 reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: New
American Museum of Natural History
The Solar System
Skills you'll gain: Scientific Visualization, Environment, Water Resources, Physics, General Science and Research, Taxonomy, Scientific Methods, Chemistry
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Maryland, College Park
Exploring Quantum Physics
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Quantitative Research, Science and Research, Mechanics, Physical Science, Chemistry, Advanced Mathematics, Linear Algebra, Calculus, Mathematical Modeling, Engineering Analysis, Differential Equations
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
67 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
Packt
Comprehensive Introduction to Quantum Mechanics
Skills you'll gain: Emerging Technologies, Physics, Mechanics, Chemistry, Cryptography, Computer Science, Quantitative Research, Mathematical Modeling, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: New
Status: Free Trial
Packt
Advanced Architectural Modeling and Texturing
Skills you'll gain: 3D Modeling, Computer Graphic Techniques, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Design Elements And Principles
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Physics 101 - Energy and Momentum
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Physics, Structural Analysis, Mechanical Engineering, Calculus, Engineering Calculations, Engineering Analysis, Physical Science, Mathematical Modeling, Trigonometry
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
40 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Physics 102 - Electric Charges and Fields
Skills you'll gain: Basic Electrical Systems, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Mechanics, Electrical Systems, Calculus, Mathematical Modeling, Trigonometry, Applied Mathematics
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
156 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Arizona
Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space
Skills you'll gain: Physical Science, Physics, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Ancient History, Chemistry, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Scientific Visualization, Research, Simulations
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
3.9K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Semiconductor Physics
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Systems, Electronic Components, Physics, Differential Equations, Applied Mathematics
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
291 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Understanding Modern Physics II: Quantum Mechanics and Atoms
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Laboratory Experience, Experimentation, Advanced Mathematics, Physical Science, Mathematical Modeling
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
55 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Georgia Institute of Technology
Introduction to Engineering Mechanics
Skills you'll gain: Engineering Analysis, Mechanics, Torque (Physics), Engineering Calculations, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering, Civil Engineering, Structural Analysis, Trigonometry
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
5.1K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months