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

Stanford University
Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Timelines, Verification And Validation, Scientific Methods, Research, Mechanics, Mathematical Modeling, Systems Of Measurement
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
3.1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
UNSW Sydney (The University of New South Wales)
Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Physics, Experimentation, Engineering Calculations, Applied Mathematics, Physical Science, Systems Of Measurement, Mathematical Modeling, Estimation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
1.1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Calculus, Mechanics, Physical Science, Advanced Mathematics, Energy and Utilities, Mathematical Modeling
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
158 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Yale University
Rocket Science for Everyone
Skills you'll gain: Global Positioning Systems, Geospatial Information and Technology, Geographic Information Systems, Physical Science, Spatial Analysis, Mechanics, Engineering, Physics, Electrical Engineering
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
545 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Understanding Modern Physics II: Quantum Mechanics and Atoms
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Laboratory Experience, Experimentation, Advanced Mathematics, Physical Science, Mathematical Modeling
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
55 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
The University of Tokyo
From the Big Bang to Dark Energy
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Chemistry, Systems Of Measurement
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
3.6K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Arizona
Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space
Skills you'll gain: Physical Science, Physics, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Ancient History, Chemistry, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Scientific Visualization, Research, Simulations
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
3.9K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
ISAE-SUPAERO
Fundamentals of Flight mechanics
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Thermal Management, Mechanical Engineering, Risk Control, Physical Science, Simulations, Applied Mathematics, Systems Of Measurement, Vibrations, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Physics, Safety Assurance, Mathematical Modeling, Energy and Utilities, Algebra, Differential Equations, Scientific Visualization
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
529 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
The Physics of Emergence: Introduction to Condensed Matter
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Semiconductors, Algebra, Electronic Components, Advanced Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling, Probability, Simulations, Electronics, Calculus, Science and Research
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
18 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
University of Alberta
Astro 101: Black Holes
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Storytelling, Scientific Methods, Science and Research, General Science and Research, Simulations, Scientific Visualization
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Michigan
Rocket Science 101
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Monitoring, Global Positioning Systems, Environmental Science, Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Environment, Physical Science, Geographic Information Systems, Research, Scientific Methods, Manufacturing and Production, World History, Chemical Engineering, International Relations, Engineering Analysis, Chemistry, Business Modeling, Political Sciences, Timelines
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
43 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Dartmouth College
Question Reality! Science, philosophy, a search for meaning
Skills you'll gain: Scientific Methods, Theoretical Computer Science, Logical Reasoning, General Science and Research, Physics, Physical Science, Artificial Intelligence, Computational Thinking, Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling, Experimentation, Simulations, Computer Science, Psychology, Science and Research, Ancient History, Vibrations, Mechanics, Chemistry, Research, World History
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
32 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

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

Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity: Stanford University
Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets: UNSW Sydney (The University of New South Wales)
Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Rocket Science for Everyone: Yale University
Understanding Modern Physics II: Quantum Mechanics and Atoms: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
From the Big Bang to Dark Energy: The University of Tokyo
Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space: University of Arizona
Fundamentals of Flight mechanics: ISAE-SUPAERO
The Physics of Emergence: Introduction to Condensed Matter: University of Colorado Boulder
Astro 101: Black Holes: University of Alberta

Physics Courses