Physics, or the study of matter and its motion and behavior through time and space, is absolutely fascinating to the inquisitive mind. From black holes to string theory, it helps us to understand the world around us.
There are a lot of physics courses you can find online, but which ones are the best? In this guide, we share the top online physics courses you can take from the comfort of home!
Why Online Physics Course?
Along with being interactive & convenient, online phys. courses can help you build a working knowledge of everything from the theory of relativity to quantum physics. This can go a long way in exploring various fields and concepts like astrophysics, gravitation, thermodynamics, kinematics, classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and more.
And even if a student is not interested in a career in physics, there’s still so much intriguing stuff to discover from the Big Bang to general relativity to black holes!
Another advantage is that you can also learn at your own pace. Whether you want to improve your grades, take care of prerequisites, or explore college-level course materials, enrolling in online classes allows a ton of scheduling flexibility.
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Top Online Physics Courses
Okay, let’s now take a look at the best online physics classes!
edX: Various Physics Courses
Offering online classes from the likes of MIT and Harvard, edX is one of the best massive open online course (MOOC) providers to explore all things physics. Current courses include Astrophysics, Introductory Mechanics, Plasma Physics, and much more!
Exploring Blackholes: General Relativity & Astrophysics
Interested in blackholes? Then you definitely want to check out Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) Exploring Blackholes: General Relativity & Astrophysics! Offered through MIT’s OpenCourseWare, this course is a classic!
From the Big Bang to Dark Energy
Did you know that over 80% of our universe is apparently made up of dark energy? That’s quite a lot! From the Big Bang to Dark Energy is a great beginner-level course to explore dark matter, dark energy, the Higgs Boson, and more with Hitoshi Murayama!
Fundamental Lessons of String Theory
Found on World Science U, Fundamental Lessons of String Theory allows you to follow the work of world-famous string theorist Andrew Strominger (with the guidance of physicist Cumrun Vafa). This course consists of five amazing modules!
Fundamentals of Physics I
As an open Yale course, Fundamentals of Physics I explores concepts like Newton’s laws, waves, and thermodynamics. This class places a focus on problem solving and quantitative reasoning. The course was recorded in the fall of 2006.
How Things Work: An Introduction to Physics
Offered by the University of Virginia (via Coursera), How Things Work: An Introduction to Physics is an intermediate-level online course. It offers flexible deadlines (to fit your schedule), as well as a shareable certificate (upon completion of the class).
Particle Physics: An Introduction
If you’d like to learn about subatomic physics, Particle Physics: An Introduction is right up your alley! This course is taught by Martin Pohl and Anna Sfyrla. Note: this class takes approximately 41 hours to complete.
Physics: Intro to Electricity & Magnetism
As a free online course, Physics: Intro to Electricity & Magnetism is a tutorial found on Udemy. Whether you’re looking to boost your grades or prepare for more advanced coursework, this class is highly accessible via on-demand video.
Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity
Want to learn about Einstein’s famous theory? Offered by Stanford University, Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity is another fantastic (and free) online course! This course goes into depth over an eight-week period.
Juni also offers an Intro to Physics online course. Try a class for free!
Final Thoughts: Online Physics Courses
From quantum mechanics to particle physics to cosmology, modern physics is a fascinating subject! And since it intersects with other science disciplines like biology and chemistry, physics opens the doors to many diverse opportunities.
Whether it’s an issue of accessibility—you might live in a remote area with limited in-person resources—or you’re simply looking for a great supplement to traditional or homeschool learning, taking an online physics class is a smart move!
Need to improve science grades? Preparing for university physics? Just curious about the universe? Whether you’re in elementary school, middle school or high school, there’s a fit out there for your exact learning style and needs.
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We hope you've enjoyed this guide on online physics courses! With the fundamentals of physics, a student can prepare for cool hobbies, college physics, and exciting careers. From aerospace engineer to physicist, the sky's the limit!
No matter the format, Juni online courses are fun & engaging online experiences. Where students learn the skills they need for future careers and hobbies, in subjects that are usually hard to find in traditional classrooms. All taught in a hands-on way that kids love!
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