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.

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Find the Best Physics Course for Your Goals

University of Arizona
Astrobiology: Exploring Other Worlds
Skills you'll gain: Biology, Life Sciences, Chemistry, Physical Science, General Science and Research, Research, Environment, Experimentation, Environmental Science, Physics, Scientific Methods
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
505 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Duke University
Nanotechnology: A Maker’s Course
Skills you'll gain: Prototyping, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Semiconductors, Chemistry, Manufacturing Processes, Laboratory Equipment, Micrometer, Laboratory Experience, Physics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
3K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Northwestern University
Modern Robotics, Course 1: Foundations of Robot Motion
Skills you'll gain: Engineering, Mechanics, Mathematical Modeling, Torque (Physics), Simulation and Simulation Software, Matlab, Linear Algebra, Angular
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
991 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
The State University of New York
Solar Energy System Design
Skills you'll gain: Electrical Systems, Electrical Power, Basic Electrical Systems, Equipment Design, Energy and Utilities, Electrical Equipment, Survey Creation, System Requirements, Engineering Calculations, Performance Testing, Physical Science, Spatial Analysis, Estimation, Physics
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
452 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Houston
Preparing for the AP Physics 1 Exam
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Basic Electrical Systems, Physics, Vibrations, Physical Science, Trigonometry, Mathematical Modeling
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
36 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Toronto
Introduction to Self-Driving Cars
Skills you'll gain: Control Systems, Embedded Software, Automation, Software Architecture, Simulations, Safety Assurance, Hardware Architecture, Systems Architecture, Verification And Validation, Mathematical Modeling, Engineering Analysis, Computer Hardware, Risk Management Framework, Mechanics
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
2.9K reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Johns Hopkins University
Principles of fMRI 1
Skills you'll gain: Magnetic Resonance Imaging, Medical Imaging, Data Analysis, Research Design, Image Analysis, Neurology, Science and Research, Statistical Analysis, Statistical Modeling, Data Processing
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
838 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Georgia Institute of Technology
Material Behavior
Skills you'll gain: Chemistry, Manufacturing Processes, Structural Analysis, Mechanical Engineering, Physical Science, Engineering, Semiconductors, Physics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.3K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
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
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
858 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Toronto
State Estimation and Localization for Self-Driving Cars
Skills you'll gain: Global Positioning Systems, Estimation, Machine Learning Methods, Computer Vision, Spatial Data Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Linear Algebra
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
835 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Georgia Institute of Technology
Mechanics of Materials II: Thin-Walled Pressure Vessels and Torsion
Skills you'll gain: Structural Engineering, Structural Analysis, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Mechanical Design, Torque (Physics), Engineering, Engineering Design Process, Engineering Calculations, Mechanics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique
Fundamentals of Fluid-Solid Interactions
Skills you'll gain: Vibrations, Engineering Analysis, Civil Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering, Mechanics, Chemical and Biomedical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling, Differential Equations
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
722 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months