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

Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Chemical Engineering Thermodynamics 1
Skills you'll gain: Energy and Utilities, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Engineering, Process Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Issue, Physics, Physical Science, Process Analysis, Mathematical Modeling
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
57 reviews
Beginner · 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
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
University of Pennsylvania
Exploring Renewable Energy Schemes
Skills you'll gain: Electric Power Systems, Electrical Power, Electrical Systems, Energy and Utilities, Electrical Safety, Environmental Regulations, Power Electronics, Electrical Equipment, Hydraulics, Basic Electrical Systems, Thermal Management, Equipment Design, Control Systems, Engineering, Semiconductors, Electronic Components, Physics, Applied Mathematics
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
647 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Analyzing the Universe
Skills you'll gain: Data Analysis Software, Spatial Data Analysis, Image Analysis, Scientific Visualization, Spatial Analysis, Science and Research, Physics, Physical Science, Probability & Statistics, Scientific Methods, Energy and Utilities
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
231 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free
Politecnico di Milano
Energy management for real estate. Methods and digital tools
Skills you'll gain: Energy and Utilities, Building Services Engineering, Facility Management, Thermal Management, Building Codes, Environmental Management Systems, HVAC, Simulation and Simulation Software
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
152 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free
Duke University
Space Medicine
Skills you'll gain: Medical Equipment and Technology, Medical Science and Research, Emergency Medicine, Vital Signs, Patient Safety, Preventative Care, Aerospace Basic Quality System Standards, Radiation Protection, Human Factors, Respiration, Environmental Engineering, Physics, Engineering Design Process
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
496 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Duke University
The Brain and Space
Skills you'll gain: Spatial Analysis, Neurology, Human Learning, Experimentation, Laboratory Research, Physics, Biology, General Science and Research, Magnetic Resonance Imaging
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
652 reviews
Beginner · 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
University of Colorado Boulder
Phases of Matter: Solid, Liquid, Gas and Beyond
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Algebra, Mathematical Modeling, Simulations
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
11 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
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
Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Equilibrio, ¿por qué se caen las cosas?
Skills you'll gain: Structural Analysis, Mechanics, Structural Engineering, Torque (Physics), Engineering Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Engineering Calculations, Civil Engineering, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Schematic Diagrams
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
33 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months