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

Status: Free
Rice University
General Chemistry: Concept Development and Application
Skills you'll gain: Chemistry, General Science and Research, Physics, Laboratory Research, Scientific Methods, Experimentation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
1K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
The University of Sydney
Life, Health and Radiation
Skills you'll gain: Radiation Protection, Medical Imaging, Radiology, Radiography, X-Ray Computed Tomography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Medical Ultrasonography, Patient Education And Counseling, Physics, Biology, Chemistry
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
354 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Particle Dynamics
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Physics, Engineering Calculations, Differential Equations, Integral Calculus, Calculus, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
33 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 3 - 6 Months
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Introduction to Semiconductor Devices 1
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Electronic Components, Electronics, Basic Electrical Systems, Electrical Engineering, Physics
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
123 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Fractal Analytics
Quantum Computing For Everyone - An Introduction
Skills you'll gain: Computer Science, IBM Cloud, Algorithms, Data Ethics, Computational Thinking, Linear Algebra, Emerging Technologies, Cryptography, Physics, Applied Mathematics
4
Rating, 4 out of 5 stars
66 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Active Learning in STEM with PhET Interactive Simulations
Skills you'll gain: Instructional Strategies, Education Software and Technology, Mathematics Education, Simulations, Simulation and Simulation Software, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, User Feedback, Experimentation, Peer Review, Scientific Methods, Design Strategies, Chemistry, Technical Documentation, Physics, Biology
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
130 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Lund University
Medical Applications of Particle Accelerators (NPAP MOOC)
Skills you'll gain: Medical Imaging, Radiology, Radiation Protection, Radiography, Oncology, Patient Positioning, Patient Treatment, Treatment Planning, Physics
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
278 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Rigid Body Dynamics
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering, Torque (Physics), Vibrations, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Calculus
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
26 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
Dartmouth College
Question Reality! Science, philosophy, a search for meaning
Skills you'll gain: Scientific Methods, Theoretical Computer Science, Logical Reasoning, General Science and Research, Physics, Physical Science, Artificial Intelligence, Computational Thinking, Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling, Experimentation, Simulations, Computer Science, Psychology, Science and Research, Ancient History, Vibrations, Mechanics, Chemistry, Research, World History
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
32 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Active Optical Devices
Skills you'll gain: Display Devices, Semiconductors, Computer Displays, Systems Design, Electrical Engineering, Technical Design, Electronic Systems, Electronics, Electronic Hardware, Electronics Engineering, Equipment Design, Electronic Components, Laboratory Equipment, Mathematical Modeling, Physics, Emerging Technologies
Build toward a degree
4
Rating, 4 out of 5 stars
105 reviews
Advanced · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Google Cloud
Introduction to Image Generation
Skills you'll gain: Generative AI, Google Cloud Platform, Image Analysis, Deep Learning, Unsupervised Learning
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
181 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Universitat de Barcelona
Técnicas Microscópicas de Caracterización
Skills you'll gain: Laboratory Equipment, Micrometer, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Laboratory Experience, Semiconductors, Physics, Image Analysis, Chemistry, Structural Analysis, Scientific Visualization, Experimentation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
804 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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

General Chemistry: Concept Development and Application: Rice University
Life, Health and Radiation: The University of Sydney
Particle Dynamics: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Introduction to Semiconductor Devices 1: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Quantum Computing For Everyone - An Introduction : Fractal Analytics
Active Learning in STEM with PhET Interactive Simulations: University of Colorado Boulder
Medical Applications of Particle Accelerators (NPAP MOOC): Lund University
Rigid Body Dynamics: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Question Reality! Science, philosophy, a search for meaning: Dartmouth College
Active Optical Devices: University of Colorado Boulder

Physics Courses