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

Tecnológico de Monterrey
Conceptos y Herramientas para la Física Universitaria
Skills you'll gain: Calculus, Integral Calculus, Mechanics, Physics, Graphing, Mathematical Modeling, Linear Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Derivatives
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
425 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Rochester
Confronting The Big Questions: Highlights of Modern Astronomy
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Life Sciences, Biology, Environment, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Systems Of Measurement, Chemistry
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
496 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Politecnico di Milano
Archaeoastronomy
Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Art History, Architectural Design, Civil and Architectural Engineering, Social Studies, Architecture and Construction, World History, Anthropology, Physical Science, Culture, Cultural Diversity, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
1.4K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Foundations of Quantum Mechanics
Skills you'll gain: Linear Algebra, Physics, Mechanics, Probability, Advanced Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling, Mathematical Theory & Analysis, Engineering Analysis, Differential Equations, Physical Science
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
81 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Georgia Institute of Technology
Applications in Engineering Mechanics
Skills you'll gain: Structural Analysis, Structural Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Engineering
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.2K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Física: Vectores, Trabajo y Energía
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Mathematical Modeling, Calculus, Integral Calculus, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Geometry, Trigonometry, Graphing, Algebra
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
181 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields
Skills you'll gain: Electrical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Systems, Applied Mathematics, Electronic Systems, Mechanics, Energy and Utilities, Engineering Analysis, Differential Equations, Mathematical Modeling, Calculus
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
230 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Mastering Statics
Skills you'll gain: Structural Analysis, Mechanics, Engineering Calculations, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Drawings, Geometry, Algebra, Applied Mathematics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
227 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Física: Dimensión y Movimiento
Skills you'll gain: Integral Calculus, Graphing, Calculus, Systems Of Measurement, Mechanics, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Derivatives
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
208 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The Science of Gastronomy
Skills you'll gain: Food and Beverage, Nutrition and Diet, Scientific Methods, Experimentation, Color Theory, Chemistry, Research Design, Psychology, Biology
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
777 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Lund University
Fundamentals of particle accelerator technology (NPAP MOOC)
Skills you'll gain: Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Laboratory Equipment, Radiation Protection, Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Medical Equipment and Technology, Physics, Electronic Systems, Equipment Design, Control Systems, Mathematical Modeling
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
104 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Duke University
Introduction to Chemistry: Structures and Solutions
Skills you'll gain: Chemistry, Physical Science, Thermal Management, Physics, Systems Of Measurement, Laboratory Experience, Scientific Methods
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
528 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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In summary, here are 10 of our most popular physics courses

Conceptos y Herramientas para la Física Universitaria: Tecnológico de Monterrey
Confronting The Big Questions: Highlights of Modern Astronomy: University of Rochester
Archaeoastronomy: Politecnico di Milano
Foundations of Quantum Mechanics: University of Colorado Boulder
Applications in Engineering Mechanics: Georgia Institute of Technology
Física: Vectores, Trabajo y Energía: Tecnológico de Monterrey
Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Mastering Statics: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Física: Dimensión y Movimiento: Tecnológico de Monterrey
The Science of Gastronomy: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

Physics Courses