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

Status: Free Trial

National Academy of Sports Medicine

Anatomy, Physiology, and Kinesiology for Fitness Professions

Skills you'll gain: Kinesiology, Respiration, Physical Therapy, Neurology, Mechanics, Cardiology, Injury Prevention, Anatomy, Orthopedics, Medical Terminology, Nutrition and Diet, Biology, Torque (Physics)

University of Arizona

Astrobiology: Exploring Other Worlds

Skills you'll gain: Biology, Biochemistry, Life Sciences, Chemistry, Physical Science, Research, Environment, Experimentation, Environmental Science, Physics, Scientific Methods, Science and Research, Microbiology

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

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile

Explorando la Energía Sustentable

Skills you'll gain: Energy and Utilities, Systems Of Measurement, Environmental Issue, Environmental Resource Management, Mitigation, Natural Resource Management, Environment, Physics, Economic Development, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Mathematical Modeling, Electric Power Systems

Status: Free Trial

Arizona State University

Introduction to Materials Science

Skills you'll gain: Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physical Science, Physics, Semiconductors

Universidad de los Andes

Tesoros de la Física y sus Descubridores I

Skills you'll gain: Physics, Electrical Systems, Physical Science, Mechanics, European History, Ancient History, Scientific Methods, World History, General Science and Research, Experimentation

Status: Free Trial

Dartmouth College

Question Reality: Matter

Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, General Science and Research, Ancient History, Scientific Methods, Chemistry, Research, Experimentation, World History

Status: Free Trial

University of Colorado System

Trauma Emergencies and Care

Skills you'll gain: Trauma Care, Emergency Medicine, Emergency Medical Services, Medical Emergency, Patient Evaluation, Injury Prevention, Triage, Emergency Response, Mechanics, First Aid, Patient Positioning, Health Assessment, Vital Signs, Anatomy

Status: Free Trial

Epic Games

Blueprint Scripting

Skills you'll gain: Unreal Engine, Game Design, Data Management, Blueprinting, Video Game Development, Scripting, UI Components, C++ (Programming Language), Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Debugging

Status: Free Trial

Epic Games

User Interface in Game Design

Skills you'll gain: Unreal Engine, User Interface (UI) Design, UI Components, Game Design, User Interface and User Experience (UI/UX) Design, Programming Principles, Prototyping, Motion Graphics

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

Status: Free Trial

Epic Games

User Experience in Game Design

Skills you'll gain: Game Design, Unreal Engine, User Experience Design, Usability, User Interface (UI) Design, Web Content Accessibility Guidelines, Prototyping, Animations

Physics Courses

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