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

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 Michigan
The Basics of Rocket Science
Skills you'll gain: Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Engineering Analysis, Chemistry, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
32 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Rochester
Confronting The Big Questions: Highlights of Modern Astronomy
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Life Sciences, Biology, Environment, General Science and Research, Scientific Methods, Systems Of Measurement, Chemistry
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
496 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
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
Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
Astronomía básica
Skills you'll gain: Physical Science, Physics, Environment, General Science and Research, Biology, Systems Of Measurement, Geographic Information Systems, Estimation, Chemistry, Scientific Visualization
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Analyzing the Universe
Skills you'll gain: Data Analysis Software, Spatial Data Analysis, Image Analysis, Scientific Visualization, Spatial Analysis, Science and Research, Physics, Physical Science, Probability & Statistics, Scientific Methods, Energy and Utilities
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
231 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Vector Calculus for Engineers
Skills you'll gain: Integral Calculus, Engineering Calculations, Calculus, Engineering Analysis, Engineering, Geometry, Advanced Mathematics, Mechanical Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Derivatives
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
1.4K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
École Polytechnique
Vers l'infiniment petit
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Physical Science, Laboratory Equipment, Advanced Mathematics, Laboratory Research, Experimentation, General Science and Research
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Politecnico di Milano
Introduzione alla fisica sperimentale: elettromagnetismo, ottica, fisica moderna
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Laboratory Experience, Electrical Systems, Experimentation, Basic Electrical Systems, Scientific Methods, Science and Research, Physical Science, Mechanics, Electronics Engineering, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics, Integral Calculus
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
35 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Nanjing University
走进天文学
Skills you'll gain: General Science and Research, Physical Science, Research, Research Methodologies, Physics, Scientific Methods, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Chemistry, Laboratory Equipment
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
230 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Phases of Matter: Solid, Liquid, Gas and Beyond
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, Algebra, Mathematical Modeling, Simulations
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
11 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Pennsylvania
Exploring Renewable Energy Schemes
Skills you'll gain: Electric Power Systems, Electrical Power, Electrical Systems, Energy and Utilities, Electrical Safety, Environmental Regulations, Power Electronics, Electrical Equipment, Hydraulics, Basic Electrical Systems, Thermal Management, Equipment Design, Control Systems, Engineering, Semiconductors, Electronic Components, Physics, Applied Mathematics
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
647 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months

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

Ingeniería nuclear para principiantes: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
The Basics of Rocket Science: University of Michigan
Confronting The Big Questions: Highlights of Modern Astronomy: University of Rochester
Archaeoastronomy: Politecnico di Milano
Astronomía básica: Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México
Analyzing the Universe: Rutgers the State University of New Jersey
Vector Calculus for Engineers: The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
Vers l'infiniment petit: École Polytechnique
Introduzione alla fisica sperimentale: elettromagnetismo, ottica, fisica moderna: Politecnico di Milano
走进天文学: Nanjing University

Physics Courses