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

Politecnico di Milano
Introduzione alla fisica sperimentale: meccanica, termodinamica
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Physics, Hydraulics, Thermal Management, Engineering Analysis, Experimentation, Engineering Calculations, Systems Of Measurement, Calculus
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
24 reviews
Beginner · 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
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
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
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
École Polytechnique
D'un infini à l'autre - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Laboratory Experience, General Science and Research, Research, Scientific Methods, Simulation and Simulation Software
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
40 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique
Les deux infinis et nous - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Physics, Radiation Protection, Laboratory Research, Medical Equipment and Technology, Science and Research, Research, Electronic Components, Electronics, Medical Imaging
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
43 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
L&T EduTech
Collaborative Robotics in Industry
Skills you'll gain: Automation Engineering, Programmable Logic Controllers, Electrical Systems, Hydraulics, Control Systems, Automation, Simulation and Simulation Software, Internet Of Things, Robotic Process Automation, Mechanical Engineering, Real Time Data, Human Machine Interfaces, Industrial Engineering, Manufacturing and Production, Electronics, Hardware Troubleshooting, Image Analysis, Matlab, Equipment Design, Computer Vision
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
96 reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Active Optical Devices
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Display Devices, Computer Displays, Systems Design, Electrical Engineering, Technical Design, Electronic Systems, Electronics, Electronics Engineering, Equipment Design, Electronic Components, Technology Solutions, Performance Testing, Physics, Mathematical Modeling, Emerging Technologies, Simulation and Simulation Software
Build toward a degree
4
Rating, 4 out of 5 stars
105 reviews
Advanced · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Universitat de Barcelona
Técnicas Microscópicas de Caracterización
Skills you'll gain: Laboratory Equipment, Micrometer, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Semiconductors, Physics, Image Analysis, Chemistry, Electrical Engineering, Scientific Visualization
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
804 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
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
Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
Astronomía básica
Skills you'll gain: Physical Science, Physics, General Science and Research, Biology, Systems Of Measurement, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Geospatial Information and Technology, World History, Chemistry
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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

Introduzione alla fisica sperimentale: meccanica, termodinamica: Politecnico di Milano
Quantum Computing For Everyone - An Introduction : Fractal Analytics
General Chemistry: Concept Development and Application: Rice University
Particle Dynamics: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Medical Applications of Particle Accelerators (NPAP MOOC): Lund University
D'un infini à l'autre - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit: École Polytechnique
Les deux infinis et nous - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit: École Polytechnique
Collaborative Robotics in Industry: L&T EduTech
Active Optical Devices: University of Colorado Boulder
Técnicas Microscópicas de Caracterización : Universitat de Barcelona

Physics Courses