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 Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Basic Robotic Behaviors and Odometry
Skills you'll gain: Automation, Simulation and Simulation Software, Mechanics, Algorithms, Control Systems, Simulations, Engineering, Linear Algebra, Estimation
Build toward a degree
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
46 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
The University of Sydney
Introduction to Advanced Calculus
Skills you'll gain: Advanced Mathematics, Integral Calculus, Calculus, Mathematical Theory & Analysis, Differential Equations, Applied Mathematics, Engineering Calculations, Mathematical Modeling, Linear Algebra, Physics, Derivatives
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
12 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Intro to Acoustics (Part 1)
Skills you'll gain: Vibrations, Mechanics, Systems Of Measurement, Engineering Analysis, Differential Equations, Engineering Calculations, Physics, Calculus, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
141 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
École Polytechnique
Plastic electronics
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Display Devices, Computer Displays, Electronics, Electronic Components, Electrical Engineering, Chemistry
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
231 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Arizona State University
Hardening, Polymers, Properties
Skills you'll gain: Process Engineering, Thermal Management, Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing Processes, Structural Analysis, Chemistry, Physical Science, Physics
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
87 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Transmission electron microscopy for materials science
Skills you'll gain: Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Semiconductors, Laboratory Equipment, Chemistry, Micrometer, Electronics, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Experimentation, Structural Analysis, Image Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Qualitative Research
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
121 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Introduction to advanced tomography
Skills you'll gain: Jupyter, 3D Modeling, Image Analysis, Analysis, Data Manipulation, Data Processing, Numerical Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Simulation and Simulation Software, Python Programming
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
63 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Alberta
Science & Religion 101
Skills you'll gain: Research, Science and Research, Ancient History, Biology, Physics, Cultural Responsiveness, Discussion Facilitation, Anthropology
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
165 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Coursera Instructor Network
EV Evolution: Comprehensive Introduction to EVs
Skills you'll gain: Basic Electrical Systems, Electrical Systems, Electronic Components, Electric Power Systems, Electrical Engineering, Environmental Issue, Emerging Technologies, Energy and Utilities, Environmental Engineering, Environment, Manufacturing and Production
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
34 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Northwestern University
Modern Robotics, Course 5: Robot Manipulation and Wheeled Mobile Robots
Skills you'll gain: Machine Controls, Control Systems, Mechanics, Automation, Mathematical Modeling, Torque (Physics), Engineering Analysis, Linear Algebra, Estimation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
94 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Mécanique de Newton
Skills you'll gain: Differential Equations, Engineering Analysis, Mechanics, Applied Mathematics, Calculus, Mechanical Engineering, Linear Algebra, Mathematical Modeling, Physics, Geometry, Vibrations, Logical Reasoning, Derivatives
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
113 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Lund University
Introduction to Particle Accelerators (NPAP MOOC)
Skills you'll gain: Radiation Protection, Radiography, Semiconductors, Radiology, Physics, Emerging Technologies, Medical Imaging, Electrical Engineering, X-Ray Computed Tomography, Laboratory Experience, Science and Research, Simulation and Simulation Software
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
200 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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

Basic Robotic Behaviors and Odometry : University of Colorado Boulder
Introduction to Advanced Calculus: The University of Sydney
Intro to Acoustics (Part 1): Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Plastic electronics: École Polytechnique
Hardening, Polymers, Properties: Arizona State University
Transmission electron microscopy for materials science: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Introduction to advanced tomography: Technical University of Denmark (DTU)
Science & Religion 101: University of Alberta
EV Evolution: Comprehensive Introduction to EVs: Coursera Instructor Network
Modern Robotics, Course 5: Robot Manipulation and Wheeled Mobile Robots : Northwestern University

Physics Courses