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
Dense Gases, Liquids and Solids
Skills you'll gain: Chemical Engineering, Simulations, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Physics, Estimation, Mathematical Modeling, Calculus
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
114 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Exploratorium
Exploring Light: Hands-on Activities and Strategies for Teachers
Skills you'll gain: Collaboration, Educational Materials, Instructional Design, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Laboratory Experience, Constructive Feedback, Learning Strategies, Experimentation, Physics, Scientific Methods, Investigation
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
54 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Packt
Practical Quantum Computing with IBM Qiskit for Beginners
Skills you'll gain: IBM Cloud, Cryptography, Algorithms, Python Programming, Linear Algebra, Programming Principles, Computer Science, Theoretical Computer Science, Emerging Technologies, Test Case, Jupyter, Physics, Simulations, Software Installation, Debugging, Development Environment
Beginner · Course · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
Epic Games
Visual Development and Audio Design in Games
Skills you'll gain: Unreal Engine, Game Design, Video Game Development, Animation and Game Design, 3D Modeling, Prototyping, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Computer Graphics, Animations, Multimedia, Virtual Environment, Aesthetics
3.8
Rating, 3.8 out of 5 stars
22 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
ISAE-SUPAERO
Developments of structural dynamics
Skills you'll gain: Finite Element Methods, Structural Analysis, Vibrations, Engineering Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Mechanical Engineering, Linear Algebra, Numerical Analysis, Applied Mathematics, Control Systems, Differential Equations
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
12 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Activity Design with PhET Simulations for STEM Education
Skills you'll gain: Simulation and Simulation Software, Mathematics Education, Design Strategies, Chemistry, Physics, Biology
5
Rating, 5 out of 5 stars
40 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of California, Irvine
Games, Sensors and Media
Skills you'll gain: Apple iOS, iOS Development, Video Game Development, Swift Programming, Mobile Development, Geographic Information Systems, Game Design, Augmented Reality, Animation and Game Design, Interaction Design, Human Computer Interaction, User Interface (UI), Global Positioning Systems
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
55 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
L'art des structures 1 : Câbles et arcs
Skills you'll gain: Structural Analysis, Construction, Structural Engineering, Architectural Engineering, Civil Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Mechanics, Engineering Drawings, Physics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
49 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
École Polytechnique
Optique non-linéaire
Skills you'll gain: Simulation and Simulation Software, Engineering Analysis, Applied Mathematics, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Laboratory Equipment, Mathematical Modeling, Differential Equations, Physics, Experimentation
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
56 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Colorado Boulder
The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Environment, Scientific Visualization, Safety Assurance, Experimentation, Research
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
69 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Non-Equilibrium Applications of Statistical Thermodynamics
Skills you'll gain: Chemical Engineering, Chemistry, Thermal Management, Engineering Calculations, Differential Equations, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Simulation and Simulation Software
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
83 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free
Politecnico di Milano
Energy management for real estate. Methods and digital tools
Skills you'll gain: Energy and Utilities, Building Services Engineering, Facility Management, Thermal Management, Building Codes, Environmental Management Systems, HVAC, Simulation and Simulation Software
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
151 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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

Dense Gases, Liquids and Solids: University of Colorado Boulder
Exploring Light: Hands-on Activities and Strategies for Teachers: Exploratorium
Practical Quantum Computing with IBM Qiskit for Beginners: Packt
Visual Development and Audio Design in Games: Epic Games
Developments of structural dynamics: ISAE-SUPAERO
Activity Design with PhET Simulations for STEM Education: University of Colorado Boulder
Games, Sensors and Media: University of California, Irvine
L'art des structures 1 : Câbles et arcs: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Optique non-linéaire: École Polytechnique
The Sun and the Total Eclipse of August 2017: University of Colorado Boulder

Physics Courses