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
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
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
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
University of Geneva
The Diversity of Exoplanets
Skills you'll gain: Scientific Methods, Scientific Visualization, Physical Science, Research, Quantitative Research, Physics, Mathematical Modeling, Simulations, Chemistry
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
34 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
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
Status: Free Trial
ISAE-SUPAERO
Flight mechanics - Lift and trajectory
Skills you'll gain: Risk Control, Vibrations, Safety Assurance, Mechanics, Engineering Analysis, Simulations, Mathematical Modeling
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
64 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free
Google Quantum AI
Hands-on quantum error correction with Google Quantum AI
Skills you'll gain: Debugging, Emerging Technologies, Hardware Architecture, Failure Analysis, Simulation and Simulation Software, Theoretical Computer Science, Mathematical Modeling, Computer Architecture, Simulations, Linear Algebra, Computer Science
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
98 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Space Exploration
Skills you'll gain: Commercialization, Transportation Operations, Resource Utilization, Organizational Strategy, Environment and Resource Management, Strategic Partnership, Geospatial Information and Technology, Physical Science, Natural Resource Management, Science and Research, Stress Management, Innovation, Environmental Science, Research, Radiation Protection, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
17 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Theory of Angular Momentum
Skills you'll gain: Linear Algebra, Physics, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics
4.1
Rating, 4.1 out of 5 stars
20 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
ISAE-SUPAERO
Flight mechanics - Propulsive balance and energy
Skills you'll gain: Thermal Management, Mechanics, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Mathematical Modeling, Physics
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
51 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Technion - Israel Institute of Technology
التقانة والمستشعرات النانوية - الجزء الثاني
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Technology Solutions, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, New Product Development, Laboratory Testing, Environmental Monitoring, Chemistry, Engineering Design Process, Manufacturing and Production, Manufacturing Processes
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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

Modern Robotics, Course 5: Robot Manipulation and Wheeled Mobile Robots : Northwestern University
Mécanique de Newton: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Introduction to Advanced Calculus: The University of Sydney
Introduction to Particle Accelerators (NPAP MOOC): Lund University
The Diversity of Exoplanets: University of Geneva
Universal Theories: University of Colorado Boulder
Flight mechanics - Lift and trajectory: ISAE-SUPAERO
Hands-on quantum error correction with Google Quantum AI: Google Quantum AI
Space Exploration: Technical University of Munich (TUM)
Theory of Angular Momentum: University of Colorado Boulder

Physics Courses