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 de los Andes
Tesoros de la Física y sus Descubridores I
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Electrical Systems, Physical Science, Mechanics, European History, Ancient History, Scientific Methods, World History, General Science and Research, Experimentation
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
858 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 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
3.7
Rating, 3.7 out of 5 stars
23 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Deep Teaching Solutions
Uncommon Sense Teaching
Skills you'll gain: Instructional Strategies, Teaching, Learning Strategies, Learning Theory, Differentiated Instruction, Student Engagement, Human Learning, Time Management, Mental Concentration, Student-Centred Learning, Neurology, Adaptability
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
617 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Arizona
Knowing the Universe: History and Philosophy of Astronomy
Skills you'll gain: Ancient History, Physics, General Science and Research, Mechanics, Physical Science, European History, Science and Research, World History, Scientific Methods, Biology, Mathematical Modeling
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
37 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Packt
Mathematical Foundations and Quantum Mechanics Essentials
Skills you'll gain: Applied Mathematics, Mathematics and Mathematical Modeling, Linear Algebra, Probability, Mathematical Modeling, Computer Science, Algebra, Probability & Statistics, Statistics, Physics, Mechanics, Emerging Technologies
4.3
Rating, 4.3 out of 5 stars
28 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
École Polytechnique
D'un infini à l'autre
Skills you'll gain: General Science and Research, Physics, Scientific Methods, Engineering, Scientific, and Technical Instruments, Research, Laboratory Research, Physical Science, Simulation and Simulation Software
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
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
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
Universidade de São Paulo
Origens da Vida no Contexto Cósmico
Skills you'll gain: Life Sciences, Physical Science, Systems Of Measurement, Chemistry, Biology, Physics, General Science and Research, Experimentation, Scientific Methods, Environmental Science
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
2.1K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
Dartmouth College
Question Reality: Matter
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Physical Science, General Science and Research, Ancient History, Scientific Methods, Chemistry, Research, Experimentation, World History
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
8 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
École Polytechnique
Les deux infinis et nous - Voyages de l'infiniment grand à l'infiniment petit
Skills you'll gain: Medical Imaging, Semiconductors, Physics, Radiology, Radiography, Electronics, Science and Research, Physical Science, Electronic Components, Energy and Utilities, Research
4.7
Rating, 4.7 out of 5 stars
43 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
EDHEC Business School
Science and Engineering of Climate Change
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Issue, Energy and Utilities, Mitigation, Engineering, Systems Of Measurement, Environment, Mathematical Modeling, Environmental Engineering, Environmental Science, Scientific Methods, Physics, Trend Analysis
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
236 reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks

Searches related to physics

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

Tesoros de la Física y sus Descubridores I: Universidad de los Andes
Visual Development and Audio Design in Games: Epic Games
Uncommon Sense Teaching: Deep Teaching Solutions
Knowing the Universe: History and Philosophy of Astronomy: University of Arizona
Mathematical Foundations and Quantum Mechanics Essentials: Packt
D'un infini à l'autre: École Polytechnique
Practical Quantum Computing with IBM Qiskit for Beginners: Packt
L'art des structures 1 : Câbles et arcs: École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne
Origens da Vida no Contexto Cósmico: Universidade de São Paulo
Question Reality: Matter: Dartmouth College

Physics Courses