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

Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Introduction to advanced tomography
Skills you'll gain: Jupyter, 3D Modeling, Image Analysis, Analysis, Data Manipulation, Data Processing, Numerical Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Simulation and Simulation Software, Python Programming
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
63 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado System
Introduction to C++ Programming and Unreal
Skills you'll gain: Unreal Engine, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), C++ (Programming Language), Debugging, Computer Programming, Video Game Development, Game Design, Development Environment, Software Documentation, Data Storage, Scripting
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
175 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
The University of Edinburgh
Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science
Skills you'll gain: Discussion Facilitation, Research, Cultural Diversity, Science and Research, Systems Thinking, Anthropology, Physics, Ethical Standards And Conduct, Biology
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
199 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Transmission electron microscopy for materials science
Skills you'll gain: Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Semiconductors, Laboratory Equipment, Chemistry, Micrometer, Electronics, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Experimentation, Structural Analysis, Image Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Qualitative Research
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
121 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Basic Robotic Behaviors and Odometry
Skills you'll gain: Automation, Simulation and Simulation Software, Mechanics, Algorithms, Control Systems, Simulations, Engineering, Linear Algebra, Estimation
Build toward a degree
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
46 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Technion - Israel Institute of Technology
Nanotechnology and Nanosensors, Part 2
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Innovation, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Chemistry, Emerging Technologies, Laboratory Testing, Electrical Engineering, Precision Medicine, Electronic Systems, Electronic Components, Laboratory Research, Manufacturing Processes
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
234 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
The University of Sydney
Introduction to Advanced Calculus
Skills you'll gain: Advanced Mathematics, Integral Calculus, Calculus, Mathematical Theory & Analysis, Differential Equations, Applied Mathematics, Engineering Calculations, Mathematical Modeling, Linear Algebra, Physics, Derivatives
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
12 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Arizona State University
Hardening, Polymers, Properties
Skills you'll gain: Process Engineering, Thermal Management, Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing Processes, Structural Analysis, Chemistry, Physical Science, Physics
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
87 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Packt
Mathematical Foundations and Quantum Mechanics Essentials
Skills you'll gain: Applied Mathematics, Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling, Linear Algebra, Probability, Mathematical Modeling, Computer Science, Algebra, Probability & Statistics, Statistics, Physics, Mechanics, Emerging Technologies
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
28 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Mécanique de Newton
Skills you'll gain: Differential Equations, Engineering Analysis, Mechanics, Applied Mathematics, Calculus, Mechanical Engineering, Linear Algebra, Mathematical Modeling, Physics, Geometry, Vibrations, Logical Reasoning, Derivatives
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
113 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Geneva
The Diversity of Exoplanets
Skills you'll gain: Scientific Methods, Scientific Visualization, Physical Science, Research, Quantitative Research, Physics, Mathematical Modeling, Simulations, Chemistry
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
34 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Universal Theories
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Semiconductors, Electronic Components, Mathematical Modeling, Advanced Mathematics, Calculus, Applied Mathematics
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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

Introduction to advanced tomography: Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Introduction to C++ Programming and Unreal: University of Colorado System
Philosophy, Science and Religion: Religion and Science: The University of Edinburgh
Transmission electron microscopy for materials science: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Basic Robotic Behaviors and Odometry : University of Colorado Boulder
Nanotechnology and Nanosensors, Part 2: Technion - Israel Institute of Technology
Introduction to Advanced Calculus: The University of Sydney
Hardening, Polymers, Properties: Arizona State University
Mathematical Foundations and Quantum Mechanics Essentials: Packt
Mécanique de Newton: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne

Physics Courses