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

Find the Best Physics Course for Your Goals

Status: Free Trial
University of Michigan
Rocket Science 101
Skills you'll gain: Environmental Monitoring, Global Positioning Systems, Environmental Science, Engineering, Physics, Mechanical Engineering, Environment, Physical Science, Geographic Information Systems, Research, Scientific Methods, Manufacturing and Production, World History, Chemical Engineering, International Relations, Engineering Analysis, Chemistry, Business Modeling, Political Sciences, Timelines
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
43 reviews
Beginner · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Physics of Oscillators and Waves
Skills you'll gain: Mechanics, Physics, Vibrations, Advanced Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling, Differential Equations, Calculus, Trigonometry, Applied Mathematics
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
8 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
University of Michigan
The Finite Element Method for Problems in Physics
Skills you'll gain: Finite Element Methods, Differential Equations, Engineering Analysis, Numerical Analysis, Mathematical Modeling, Mathematical Theory & Analysis, Advanced Mathematics, Applied Mathematics, Linear Algebra, C++ (Programming Language), Calculus, Open Source Technology
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
551 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Quantum Mechanics for Engineers
Skills you'll gain: Estimation, Linear Algebra, Physics, Mechanics, Engineering Calculations, Probability, Applied Mathematics, Advanced Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling, Engineering Analysis, Mathematical Theory & Analysis, Differential Equations, Physical Science
Build toward a degree
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
98 reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Caltech
The Evolving Universe
Skills you'll gain: Physical Science, Physics, General Science and Research, Mechanics, Systems Of Measurement, Mathematical Modeling
4.6
Rating, 4.6 out of 5 stars
824 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Physics 102 - AC Circuits and Maxwell's Equations
Skills you'll gain: Basic Electrical Systems, Electrical Engineering, Physics, Engineering Analysis, Electronic Systems, Electrical Systems, Mathematical Modeling, Applied Mathematics, Advanced Mathematics, Calculus
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
40 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Status: Free Trial
University of Colorado Boulder
Semiconductor Devices
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Electrical Engineering, Electronic Systems, Power Electronics, Electronic Components, Physics, Electronics, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Scalability, Differential Equations, Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Modeling
Build toward a degree
4.4
Rating, 4.4 out of 5 stars
601 reviews
Advanced · Specialization · 1 - 3 Months
Caltech
The Science of the Solar System
Skills you'll gain: Science and Research, Research, Physical Science, Scientific Methods, Life Sciences, Physics, Water Resources, Advanced Mathematics, Chemistry, Environment, Biology
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
799 reviews
Mixed · Course · 1 - 3 Months
Status: Free Trial
Arizona State University
Materials Science for Advanced Technological Applications
Skills you'll gain: Semiconductors, Basic Electrical Systems, Electronic Components, Mechanical Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Electronics, Process Engineering, Thermal Management, Structural Analysis, Chemical Engineering, Manufacturing Processes, Chemistry, Failure Analysis, Engineering Analysis, Process Control, Physical Science, Physics, Engineering Calculations
4.5
Rating, 4.5 out of 5 stars
179 reviews
Intermediate · Specialization · 3 - 6 Months
Status: Free Trial
Rice University
Physics of Light and Materials
Skills you'll gain: Physics, Mechanics, Physical Science, Trigonometry, Mathematical Modeling, Advanced Mathematics, Linear Algebra, Differential Equations, Applied Mathematics, Integral Calculus
4.9
Rating, 4.9 out of 5 stars
7 reviews
Intermediate · Course · 1 - 4 Weeks
Stanford University
Social and Economic Networks: Models and Analysis
Skills you'll gain: Network Analysis, Network Model, Social Sciences, Sociology, Economics, Policy, and Social Studies, Game Theory, Behavioral Economics, Graph Theory, Mathematical Modeling, Markov Model, Probability & Statistics, Probability Distribution, Bayesian Statistics, Simulations
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
754 reviews
Advanced · Course · 1 - 3 Months
University of Michigan
Introduction to Thermodynamics: Transferring Energy from Here to There
Skills you'll gain: Mechanical Engineering, Thermal Management, HVAC, Engineering, Energy and Utilities, Physics, Engineering Analysis, Plant Operations and Management, Process Analysis, Environmental Science
4.8
Rating, 4.8 out of 5 stars
3.4K reviews
Beginner · Course · 1 - 3 Months