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

Find the Best Physics Course for Your Goals

École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Mécanique du point matériel
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Torque (Physics), Vibrations, Physics, Engineering, Differential Equations, Calculus, Linear Algebra, Mathematical Modeling, Trigonometry, Applied Mathematics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
40 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
ISAE-SUPAERO
Flight mechanics - Lift and trajectory
Skills you'll gain: Risk Control, Vibrations, Safety Assurance, Mechanics, Engineering Analysis, Simulations, Mathematical Modeling
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
64 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
ISAE-SUPAERO
Flight mechanics - Propulsive balance and energy
Skills you'll gain: Thermal Management, Mechanics, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Mathematical Modeling, Physics
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
52 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique
Vers l'infiniment petit - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit
Skills you'll gain: Laboratory Research, Experimentation, Physics, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Laboratory Equipment, General Science and Research, Advanced Mathematics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
100 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Arizona
Knowing the Universe: History and Philosophy of Astronomy
Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Physics, General Science and Research, Mechanics, Physical Science, European History, Science and Research, World History, Scientific Methods, Biology, Mathematical Modeling
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
37 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Dense Gases, Liquids and Solids
Skills you'll gain: Chemical Engineering, Simulations, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Physics, Estimation, Mathematical Modeling, Calculus
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
114 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Carnegie Mellon University
Statistical Thermodynamics: Molecules to Machines
Skills you'll gain: Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Engineering, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Engineering Analysis, Physics, Molecular, Cellular, and Microbiology, Mathematical Modeling, Physical Science, Probability Distribution
3.9
Rating, 3.9 out of 5 stars
50 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Spacecraft Dynamics Capstone: Mars Mission
Skills you'll gain: Control Systems, Numerical Analysis, Simulations, Engineering Analysis, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Engineering Calculations, Torque (Physics), Mathematical Modeling, Matlab
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
49 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
École Polytechnique
Vers l'infiniment petit
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Physical Science, Laboratory Equipment, Advanced Mathematics, Laboratory Research, Experimentation, General Science and Research
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Epic Games
Game Development and Prototyping
Skills you'll gain: Game Design, Video Game Development, Prototyping, Unreal Engine, Animation and Game Design, System Design and Implementation, Creativity, User Interface (UI), Artificial Intelligence
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
12 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of California, Irvine
Games, Sensors and Media
Skills you'll gain: Apple iOS, iOS Development, Video Game Development, Swift Programming, Mobile Development, Geographic Information Systems, Game Design, Augmented Reality, Animation and Game Design, Interaction Design, Human Computer Interaction, User Interface (UI), Global Positioning Systems
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
55 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
L'art des structures 1 : Câbles et arcs
Skills you'll gain: Structural Analysis, Construction, Structural Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Mechanics, Engineering Drawings, Physics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
49 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months