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

The University of Edinburgh
Philosophy and the Sciences: Introduction to the Philosophy of Physical Sciences
Skills you'll gain: Scientific Methods, Science and Research, Physical Science, Research, General Science and Research, Physics, Research Methodologies
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
948 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Georgia Institute of Technology
Engineering Systems in Motion: Dynamics of Particles and Bodies in 2D Motion
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Structural Engineering, Torque (Physics), Vibrations, Engineering, Physics, Civil Engineering, Calculus, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
742 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Georgia Institute of Technology
Linear Circuits 1: DC Analysis
Skills you'll gain: Basic Electrical Systems, Electronic Components, Electrical Systems, Electrical Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Electronics, Engineering Calculations, Physics, Differential Equations
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
1.5K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Kinematics: Describing the Motions of Spacecraft
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Linear Algebra, Numerical Analysis, Engineering Calculations, Engineering Analysis, Differential Equations, Physics, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics, Verification And Validation, Advanced Mathematics, Estimation
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
332 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Conceptos y Herramientas para la Física Universitaria
Skills you'll gain: Calculus, Integral Calculus, Mechanics, Physics, Graphing, Mathematical Modeling, Linear Algebra, Trigonometry, Geometry, Derivatives
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
425 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Politecnico di Milano
Archaeoastronomy
Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Art History, Architectural Design, Civil and Architectural Engineering, Social Studies, Architecture and Construction, World History, Anthropology, Physical Science, Culture, Cultural Diversity, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
1.4K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Foundations of Quantum Mechanics
Skills you'll gain: Linear Algebra, Physics, Mechanics, Probability, Advanced Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling, Mathematical Theory & Analysis, Engineering Analysis, Differential Equations, Physical Science
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
81 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Georgia Institute of Technology
Applications in Engineering Mechanics
Skills you'll gain: Structural Analysis, Structural Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Mechanical Engineering, Mechanics, Engineering
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.2K reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields
Skills you'll gain: Electrical Engineering, Physics, Electrical Systems, Applied Mathematics, Electronic Systems, Mechanics, Energy and Utilities, Engineering Analysis, Differential Equations, Mathematical Modeling, Calculus
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
230 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Física: Vectores, Trabajo y Energía
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Mathematical Modeling, Calculus, Integral Calculus, Applied Mathematics, Physics, Geometry, Trigonometry, Graphing, Algebra
4.2
Rating, 4.2 out of 5 stars
181 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Tecnológico de Monterrey
Física: Dimensión y Movimiento
Skills you'll gain: Integral Calculus, Graphing, Calculus, Systems Of Measurement, Mechanics, Physics, Applied Mathematics, Derivatives
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
208 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Mastering Statics
Skills you'll gain: Structural Analysis, Mechanics, Engineering Calculations, Mechanical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Engineering Drawings, Geometry, Algebra, Applied Mathematics
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
227 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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

Philosophy and the Sciences: Introduction to the Philosophy of Physical Sciences: The University of Edinburgh
Engineering Systems in Motion: Dynamics of Particles and Bodies in 2D Motion: Georgia Institute of Technology
Linear Circuits 1: DC Analysis: Georgia Institute of Technology
Kinematics: Describing the Motions of Spacecraft: University of Colorado Boulder
Conceptos y Herramientas para la Física Universitaria: Tecnológico de Monterrey
Archaeoastronomy: Politecnico di Milano
Foundations of Quantum Mechanics: University of Colorado Boulder
Applications in Engineering Mechanics: Georgia Institute of Technology
Electrodynamics: Electric and Magnetic Fields: Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology(KAIST)
Física: Vectores, Trabajo y Energía: Tecnológico de Monterrey

Physics Courses