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    Physics Courses

    Physics courses can help you learn how matter, energy, and forces interact—providing a foundation for understanding motion, electricity, waves, and the universe itself.

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    Find the Best Physics Course for Your Goals

    • Status: Preview
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      S

      Stanford University

      Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity

      Skills you'll gain: Physics, Spatial Analysis, Systems Of Measurement, Physical Science, General Science and Research, Mechanics, Mathematical Modeling

      4.9
      Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3.1K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Preview
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      T

      The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

      Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology

      Skills you'll gain: Physics, Thermal Management, Mechanics, Calculus, Advanced Mathematics, Systems Of Measurement, Mathematical Modeling

      4.6
      Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
      ·
      163 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Preview
      Preview
      Y

      Yale University

      Rocket Science for Everyone

      Skills you'll gain: Global Positioning Systems, Wireless Networks, Geospatial Information and Technology, Electronic Components, Mechanics, Telecommunications, Spatial Analysis, Environmental Monitoring, Physics, Electric Power Systems

      4.9
      Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
      ·
      612 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Preview
      Preview
      U

      UNSW Sydney (The University of New South Wales)

      Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets

      Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Physics, Torque (Physics), Applied Mathematics, Physical Science, Mathematical Modeling, Calculus, Engineering Calculations, Engineering Analysis, Systems Of Measurement

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.1K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Preview
      Preview
      T

      The University of Tokyo

      From the Big Bang to Dark Energy

      Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Chemistry, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Mathematical Modeling

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3.6K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • Status: Preview
      Preview
      U

      University of Arizona

      Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space

      Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Ancient History, Laboratory Equipment, General Science and Research, Chemistry, Global Positioning Systems, Spatial Analysis, Scientific Methods, Research, Simulations, Simulation and Simulation Software

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      3.9K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    What brings you to Coursera today?

    • Status: Preview
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      T

      The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology

      Understanding Modern Physics II: Quantum Mechanics and Atoms

      Skills you'll gain: Physics, Advanced Mathematics, Quantitative Research, Chemistry, Computational Thinking, Engineering Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Experimentation

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      56 reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Michigan

      Rocket Science 101

      Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Global Positioning Systems, Environmental Monitoring, Physics, Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Environmental Science, Physical Science, Science and Research, Cost Estimation, Geospatial Information and Technology, Environment, Scientific Methods, International Relations, World History, Calculus, Chemical Engineering, Political Sciences, Emerging Technologies, Applied Mathematics

      4.9
      Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
      ·
      46 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      D

      Dartmouth College

      Question Reality! Science, philosophy, a search for meaning

      Skills you'll gain: Simulations, Scientific Methods, Computational Logic, Artificial Intelligence, Physics, Theoretical Computer Science, Physical Science, Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling, Experimentation, Logical Reasoning, Mathematical Modeling, Systems Thinking, Computer Science, Psychology, Chemistry, General Mathematics, Ancient History, Science and Research, Mechanics, European History

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      34 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: New
      New
      Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      U

      University of Colorado Boulder

      Sensors for a Carbon Free World

      Skills you'll gain: Electrical Power, Power Electronics, Electric Power Systems, Three-Phase, Electronic Components, Energy and Utilities, Electrical Equipment, Basic Electrical Systems, Mechanical Design, Torque (Physics), Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Semiconductors, Electrical Systems, Control Systems, Electronics, Engineering Calculations, Vibrations, Thermal Management, Manufacturing Processes

      4.4
      Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
      ·
      75 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months

    • Status: Free Trial
      Free Trial
      I

      ISAE-SUPAERO

      Fundamentals of Flight mechanics

      Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Thermal Management, Mathematical Modeling, Systems Of Measurement, Physical Science, Engineering Calculations, Engineering Analysis, Risk Control, Structural Analysis, Control Systems, Physics, Vibrations, Simulation and Simulation Software, Applied Mathematics

      4.7
      Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
      ·
      550 reviews

      Beginner · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months

    • Status: Preview
      Preview
      U

      University of Alberta

      Astro 101: Black Holes

      Skills you'll gain: Physics, Mathematical Modeling, Simulations, Scientific Methods, General Science and Research, Scientific Visualization

      4.8
      Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
      ·
      1.2K reviews

      Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

    Searches related to physics

    physics 101 - energy and momentum
    physics 102 - electric charges and fields
    physics of waves and optics
    physics of light and materials
    physics of silicon solar cells
    physics 102 - electric potential and dc circuits
    physics of oscillators and waves
    physics 102 - ac circuits and maxwell's equations
    1234…13

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

    • Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity: Stanford University
    • Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
    • Rocket Science for Everyone: Yale University
    • Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets: UNSW Sydney (The University of New South Wales)
    • From the Big Bang to Dark Energy: The University of Tokyo
    • Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space: University of Arizona
    • Understanding Modern Physics II: Quantum Mechanics and Atoms: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
    • Rocket Science 101: University of Michigan
    • Question Reality! Science, philosophy, a search for meaning: Dartmouth College
    • Sensors for a Carbon Free World: University of Colorado Boulder

    Why Learn Physics?

    Physics is the study of matter, energy, and the fundamental forces that shape the universe—from motion and gravity to electricity and quantum mechanics. It underpins innovations in engineering, technology, and environmental science. Learning physics can deepen your understanding of how the world works and support problem-solving across science and tech fields.

    Frequently Asked Questions about 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.‎

    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.‎

    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.‎

    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.‎

    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.‎

    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.‎

    This FAQ content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.

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