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

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Equilibrio, ¿por qué se caen las cosas?
Skills you'll gain: Structural Analysis, Mechanics, Torque (Physics), Engineering Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Geometry, Engineering Calculations, Applied Mathematics, General Mathematics, Physics
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
33 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Spacecraft Dynamics Capstone: Mars Mission
Skills you'll gain: Control Systems, Numerical Analysis, Simulations, Engineering Analysis, Visualization (Computer Graphics), Engineering Calculations, Torque (Physics), Mathematical Modeling, Matlab
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
49 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
École Polytechnique
D'un infini à l'autre
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Research, Scientific Methods, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Mécanique Lagrangienne
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Vibrations, Advanced Mathematics, Physics, Differential Equations, Linear Algebra, Calculus, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics, Experimentation
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
37 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
École Polytechnique
Vers l'infiniment petit
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Laboratory Research, Experimentation, Laboratory Equipment, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Physical Science
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
École Polytechnique
Les deux infinis et nous
Skills you'll gain: Research, Physics, Science and Research, Physical Science, Radiation Protection, Emerging Technologies, Radiology, Electronics, Radiography, Innovation, Medical Imaging, Electronic Components
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Johns Hopkins University
Communications and High-Speed Signals with Raspberry Pi
Skills you'll gain: Electronics, Digital Communications, Telecommunications, Electronic Components, Hardware Troubleshooting, Hardware Architecture, Debugging
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
13 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Michigan
The History of Rocket Science
Skills you'll gain: Manufacturing and Production, World History, International Relations, Business Modeling, Political Sciences, Timelines, Engineering Design Process
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
19 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
Ingeniería nuclear para principiantes
Skills you'll gain: Radiation Protection, Plant Operations and Management, Safety Assurance, Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics, Engineering Analysis, Energy and Utilities, Thermal Management, Engineering Calculations
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
6 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Nanophotonics and Detectors
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Systems, Electronic Components, Electronics, Display Devices, Laboratory Equipment, Physics
4.1
Rating, 4.1 out of 5 stars
22 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado System
More C++ Programming and Unreal
Skills you'll gain: Unreal Engine, C++ (Programming Language), Data Structures, Video Game Development, Data Storage, Object Oriented Programming (OOP), Computer Programming, Programming Principles
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
34 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique
Vers l'infiniment grand - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit
Skills you'll gain: Physics, General Science and Research, Physical Science, Science and Research, Simulations, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
53 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

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

Equilibrio, ¿por qué se caen las cosas?: Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Spacecraft Dynamics Capstone: Mars Mission: University of Colorado Boulder
D'un infini à l'autre: École Polytechnique
Mécanique Lagrangienne: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Vers l'infiniment petit: École Polytechnique
Les deux infinis et nous: École Polytechnique
Communications and High-Speed Signals with Raspberry Pi: Johns Hopkins University
The History of Rocket Science: University of Michigan
Ingeniería nuclear para principiantes: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
Nanophotonics and Detectors: University of Colorado Boulder

Physics Courses