From the expansion of ATLAS, CERN’s ongoing experiment to uncover the mysteries of subatomic particles, to the incredible images captured by the James Webb Space Telescope, NASA’s flagship astrophysics project, the field of physics is bubbling with activity.

And as the field continues to grow, so does the number of physics online courses offered by the best universities around the world. Fortunately, we’ve been keeping track of them for you: there are currently over 650+ free physics online courses listed on Class Central!

In this article, we’ve compiled a selection of physics courses on a wide variety of subfields. Happy learning!

Subjects

For your convenience, we’ve broken down the list by topic. Click on a subject to jump to the corresponding section:

• Introductory Physics
• Classical Mechanics
• Theoretical Physics
• Electromagnetism
• Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
• Quantum mechanics
• Relativity
• Particle Physics
• Astrophysics
• Sounds and Acoustics
• Optics

So do take a look at the list below. Whatever your interest in physics — whether it’s introductory physics, Einstein’s relativity, or simple curiosity — dive in and increase your understanding of the basic building blocks of the world around us.

More Courses

And if you don’t find what you need below, have a look at our other collections of scientific courses:

• 200 Chemistry Courses to Expand Your Knowledge of the World
• 100+ Math Online Courses from the World’s Top Universities
• 100+ Free Online Courses and Webinars on AI in Healthcare
• 40+ Free Online Courses on Evolutionary Science
• Harvard Computer Science Courses with Free Certificate

You can find all our free certificates articles here.

Introductory Physics Online Courses

How Things Work: An Introduction to Physics
University of Virginia via Coursera
An introduction to physics in the context of everyday objects.
★★★★★ (28 ratings)

Intro to Physics
via Udacity
Go to the places where big physics discoveries were made in the past and make them yourself. You’ll visit Italy, the Netherlands, and the UK as you learn basic physics.
★★★★☆ (16 ratings)

Space, Time and Einstein
Columbia University via World Science U
Join a visual and conceptual introduction to Einstein’s spectacular insights into space, time and energy. For a mathematical introduction to Special Relativity check out Special Relativity.
★★★★★ (7 ratings)

Physics 1 for Physical Science Majors
University of Colorado Boulder via Coursera
This introductory physics course is intended for physical science majors and others desiring a rigorous introduction to physics. The course covers classical mechanics, including kinematics, dynamics, conservation laws, and applications.
★★★★★ (4 ratings)

The Finite Element Method for Problems in Physics
University of Michigan via Coursera
This course is an introduction to the finite element method as applicable to a range of problems in physics and engineering sciences. The treatment is mathematical, but only for the purpose of clarifying the formulation.
★★★★☆ (4 ratings)

Fundamentals of Physics
Yale University via YouTube
This course covers Newtonian mechanics, special relativity, gravitation, thermodynamics, and waves.
★★★★☆ (2 ratings)

Feynman Lectures on Physics
California Institute of Technology via Independent
These three volumes are a self-contained pedagogical treatise. They are also a historical record of Feynman’s 1961–64 undergraduate physics lectures, a course required of all Caltech freshmen and sophomores regardless of their majors.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Physics 101 – Forces and Kinematics
Rice University via Coursera
This course serves as an introduction to the physics of force and motion. Upon completion, learners will have an understanding of how mathematical laws and conservation principles describe the motions and interactions of objects all around us.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Physics by CrashCourse
CrashCourse via YouTube
In 46 episodes, Dr. Shini Somara will help you find your place in the world — literally! — with physics. This course is based on introductory college-level material and the 2016 AP Physics I and II curriculum.
★★★★☆ (1 rating)

From Atoms to Stars: How Physics Explains Our World
National Research Nuclear University MEPhI via edX
Explore the universe through physics from the smallest micro particle to the vastness of galaxies.

Physics, Astronomy, and Space: Teaching Secondary Science
Royal Observatory, Greenwich via FutureLearn
Upgrade your secondary science lessons, boost your knowledge of space physics, and help students build key career skills.

Pre-University Physics
Delft University of Technology via edX
Prepare for your technical studies by reviewing the fundamentals of physics. Become familiar with the way physics and physics-related topics are taught at university level.

Physics 101 – Energy and Momentum
Rice University via Coursera
This course serves as an introduction to the physics of energy and momentum. Upon completion, learners will have an understanding of how mathematical laws and conservation principles describe the motions and interactions of objects all around us.

Frontier Physics, Future Technologies
University of York via FutureLearn
Expand your understanding of modern physics and discover how we can solve societal problems by developing future technologies.

Physics 111: Physics I
via Study.com
Physics 111 has been evaluated and recommended for 3 semester hours and may be transferred to over 2,000 colleges and universities. With this self-paced course, you get engaging lessons, expert instructors who make even the most challenging physics topics simple, and an excellent resource for getting a head start on your degree.

Physics of the Everyday
via Brilliant
Investigate everyday physics, from household objects to weather patterns.

Physics 101: Intro to Physics
via Study.com
Physics 101 has been evaluated and recommended for 3 semester hours and may be transferred to over 2,000 colleges and universities. With this self-paced course, you get engaging lessons, expert instructors who make even the most challenging physics topics simple, and an excellent resource for getting a head start on your degree.

Introductory Physics — Part 1: Mechanics and Waves
Seoul National University via edX
Grasp physics from everyday experience. This course covers the basics of Newtonian mechanics, including oscillations and wave phenomena.

Fundamental Physics
via Study.com
This fundamental physics course helps students catch up on physics when they’ve fallen behind. The short, engaging video lessons make learning physics topics your student struggles with fun and easy. With quizzes and practice exams, parents and teachers can monitor their students’ progress.

Physics 101 – Rotational Motion and Gravitation
Rice University via Coursera
This course serves as an introduction to the physics of rotational motion and gravitation. Upon completion, learners will have an understanding of how mathematical laws and conservation principles describe the motions and interactions of objects all around us.

Classical Mechanics Online Courses

Fluid Mechanics I
Cal Poly Pomona via YouTube
Learn the fundamental properties of Fluids, Pascal’s Law, Buoyancy and the Bernoulli Equation, Energy Equation and more on this series of lectures by Dr. Biddle
★★★★★ (7 ratings)

Advanced Introductory Classical Mechanics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
This is a college-level Introductory Newtonian Mechanics course designed for both students and teachers.
★★★★★ (4 ratings)

Classical Mechanics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
Covers the basics of Newtonian mechanics, fluid mechanics, kinetic gas theory and thermodynamics in addition to exploring other real-world phenomena.
★★★★★ (3 ratings)

Fluid Mechanics – Concept & Derivation
Cal Poly Pomona via YouTube
★★★★★ (2 ratings)

Microstructural Evolution of Materials Part 1: Statistical Mechanics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
Discover the principles of statistical mechanics that explain materials science phenomena.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Fundamentals of Fluid-Solid Interactions
École Polytechnique via Coursera
What is fluid-solid interactions ? It is what happens when the motions of a fluid and of a solid are somehow coupled. This happens all the time, around you when leaves flutter in the wind, inside you when your heart beats, above you when wings of a plane vibrate, under the sea…
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Classical Mechanics (Fall 2016)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare
In this course, we will investigate: Force and conservation laws.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Mechanics: Motion, Forces, Energy and Gravity, from Particles to Planets
University of New South Wales via Coursera
Most of the phenomena in the world around you are, at the fundamental level, based on physics, and much of physics is based on mechanics. Mechanics begins by quantifying motion, and then explaining it in terms of forces, energy and momentum.
★★★★☆ (1 rating)

Classical Mechanics
via Brilliant
Hardcore training for the aspiring physicist.
★★★☆☆ (1 rating)

Statistical Mechanics I: Statistical Mechanics of Particles (Fall 2013)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare
Statistical Mechanics is a probabilistic approach to equilibrium properties of large numbers of degrees of freedom. In this two-semester course, basic principles are examined.

Computational Fluid Mechanics – Airflow Around a Spoiler
Coursera Project Network via Coursera
In this hands-on project, you will learn about Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and perform an incompressible fluid flow simulation around a spoiler using the cloud-based simulation tool SimScale.

Classical mechanics: from newtonian to lagrangian formulation
NPTEL via YouTube
This course deals with the fundamentals of classical mechanics. Mechanics is one of the core subjects for physics and engineering disciplines. This course starts from the basics of Newtonian mechanics.

Exploring fluid mechanics using Wolfram notebook
Coursera Project Network via Coursera
Exploring fluid mechanics using Wolfram notebook

Mechanics, Heat, Oscillations and Waves
NPTEL via YouTube
The topics to be discussed are those which involve basic concepts and fundamental principles, and which therefore have wide applicability. They are also the topics that are conceptually the deepest,  and must therefore be understood as clearly as possible. This will be the overall objective of the courses.

Interfacial Fluid Mechanics
IIT Hyderabad via Swayam
This course will introduce the student to the wonderful and beautiful world of interfacial fluid dynamics. These are fluid systems dominated by surface or interfacial tension.

Introduction to Classical Mechanics
NPTEL via YouTube
This introductory course on Classical Mechanics covers the following topics: Euler Lagrange Equations, Small Oscillations, Central Force Problem, Rigid Body Motion.

Graduate Classical Mechanics Course, PHYS-411, Northwestern, Fall 2020
Northwestern University via YouTube

Classical Mechanics
Norwegian University of Science and Technology via YouTube

Theoretical Physics Online Courses

The Einstein Revolution
Harvard University via edX
Traces Albert Einstein’s engagement with relativity, quantum mechanics, Nazism, nuclear weapons, philosophy, the arts, and technology.
★★★★☆ (2 ratings)

Geometrical Anatomy of Theoretical Physics
Friedrich–Alexander University Erlangen–Nürnberg via YouTube

Effective Field Theory
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
This course will be taught as a Live Archived Course from February 3 to May 28, 2020. 8.EFTx is a graduate course on Effective Field Theory (EFT), which provides a fundamental framework to describe physical systems with quantum field theory. For residential students it is listed as 8.851.

The Myth of The Beginning of Time | String Theory and the Big Bang
Wondrium via YouTube

Fundamental Lessons From String Theory
Harvard University via World Science U
Cumrun Vafa, together with fellow world-renowned string theorist Andrew Strominger, developed a new way to calculate black hole entropy in the language of string theory. Follow Vafa as he guides you through some of the more incredible things we have learned since string theory’s inception.

Loose Ends: String Theory and the Quest for the Ultimate Theory
World Science Festival via YouTube

String Theory and Holographic Duality (Fall 2014)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare
This course focuses on holographic duality as a novel method of approaching and connecting a range of diverse subjects, including quantum gravity / black holes, QCD at extreme conditions, exotic condensed matter systems, and quantum information.

Brian Greene and Leonard Susskind: Quantum Mechanics, Black Holes and String Theory
World Science Festival via YouTube

Gravitational Physics
via Brilliant
Explore Newton’s law of gravity and unpack its universe of consequences.

Brian Greene and Cumrun Vafa: Fundamental Lessons From String Theory
World Science Festival via YouTube

Electromagnetism Online Courses

Fundamentos de Electromagnetismo para Ingeniería
Universitat Politècnica de València via edX
Trataremos las causas y las leyes de la interacción electromagnética. Veremos el campo eléctrico, el magnético y la inducción magnética.
★★★★☆ (15 ratings)

Electricity & Magnetism
Rice University via edX
PHYS 102x serves as an introduction to electromagnetism, including charge, electric and magnetic forces, induction, current, and resistance.
★★★★★ (3 ratings)

Electricity and Magnetism, Part 1
Rice University via edX
PHYS 102.1x serves as an introduction to charge, the electric field, the electric potential, current, resistance, and DC circuits with resistors and capacitors.
★★★★★ (2 ratings)

Physics 102 – AC Circuits and Maxwell’s Equations
Rice University via Coursera
This course serves as an introduction to the physics of electricity and magnetism. Upon completion, learners will have an understanding of how the forces between electric charges are described by fields, and how these fields are related to electrical circuits.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Introduction to Electromagnetism
NPTEL via YouTube
This course introduces students to handling electromagnetic theory using vector calculus. This enables students to handle problems that are more complicated than they are used to from their school days.

Effective Field Theory (Spring 2013)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare
Effective field theory is a fundamental framework to describe physical systems with quantum field theory.

Electromagnetic Theory
NPTEL via YouTube
The course begins with a review of vector calculus which is extensively used in the course. The course covers electrostatics, magnetostatics, electromagnetic induction and electromagnetic waves. At the end of this course, a student is expected to be familiar with both the differential and integral forms of Maxwell’s equations.

Electricity and Magnetism: Magnetic Fields and Forces
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
Learn how charges create and move in magnetic fields and how to analyze simple DC circuits in this introductory-level physics course.

Electromagnetic Compatibility Essentials
Graz University of Technology via edX
Advance your career by learning the basics of EMC. Explore all the different aspects and challenges every electronics engineer must be aware of.

Introductory Electricity and Magnetism
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
Explore the concepts of electricity and magnetism in this series of courses, based on the second semester of introductory physics at MIT.

AP® Physics 2 – Part 2: Electricity and Magnetism
Rice University via edX
The second course in a comprehensive series designed to prepare you for the AP Physics 2 exam, focusing on electricity and magnetism.

Electricity and Magnetism: Electrostatics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
Learn how charges interact with each other and create electric fields and electric potential landscapes in this introductory-level physics course.

电磁学 | Electromagnetism
Tsinghua University via edX
本课程介绍电磁学的基本内容。Learn the basics of electromagnetism.

PHYS102: Introduction to Electromagnetism
via Saylor Academy

Electrodynamics: An Introduction
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology via Coursera
The depth and breadth of electromagnetism, the foundation for many fields including materials science, electrical engineering, and physical chemistry, requires a long, steep, and steady learning curve. This course aims to bridge the gap between the fundamental principles taught in electromagnetism and its practical applications.

PHYS110 – Electromagnetism
METUopencouseware via YouTube

Electromagnetism
Indian Institute of Science Education and Research Bhopal via Swayam
In this course students will learn and apply properties of electric and magnetic fields in the presence of static charge and current distributions. They will also understand, analyze, and apply Maxwell’s equations that govern the dynamics of electric and magnetic fields.

Physics 102 – Electric Potential and DC Circuits
Rice University via Coursera
This course serves as an introduction to the physics of electricity and magnetism. Upon completion, learners will have an understanding of how the forces between electric charges are described by fields, and how these fields are related to electrical circuits.

The Origin of Electromagnetism – an Unsolved Riddle
Unzicker’s Real Physics via YouTube

Physics 102 – Magnetic Fields and Faraday’s Law
Rice University via Coursera
This course serves as an introduction to the physics of electricity and magnetism. Upon completion, learners will have an understanding of how the forces between electric charges are described by fields, and how these fields are related to electrical circuits.

La fisica: dall’elettromagnetismo all’ottica
University of Naples Federico II via edX
Avvicinati ai fenomeni naturali della vita di tutti i giorni, come la luce che cambia nei tramonti o l’aurora boreale, che creano suggestioni che la Fisica ci aiuta a spiegare

Physics 102 – Electric Charges and Fields
Rice University via Coursera
This course serves as an introduction to the physics of electricity and magnetism. Upon completion, learners will have an understanding of how the forces between electric charges are described by fields, and how these fields are related to electrical circuits.

Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics Online Courses

Introduzione alla fisica sperimentale: meccanica, termodinamica
Politecnico di Milano via Polimi OPEN KNOWLEDGE
Il corso affronta le tematiche della meccanica e della termodinamica partendo dall’applicazione del metodo sperimentale, per prepararsi al meglio all’ingresso all’università.
★★★★★ (12 ratings)

Thermodynamics
Indian Institute of Technology Bombay via edX
Introduction to basic concepts and applications of thermodynamics in mechanical engineering.
★★★★★ (5 ratings)

Introduction to Thermodynamics: Transferring Energy from Here to There
University of Michigan via Coursera
This course provides an introduction to the most powerful engineering principles you will ever learn – Thermodynamics: the science of transferring energy from one place or form to another place or form.
★★★★☆ (5 ratings)

Introduzione alla fisica sperimentale: meccanica, termodinamica
Politecnico di Milano via Coursera
Il corso affronta le tematiche della meccanica e della termodinamica, fornendo le nozioni che risultano utili per affrontare insegnamenti di fisica di base, a partire dalla comprensione del metodo sperimentale per poi mostrare le grandezze fondamentali e loro relazioni in tali ambiti, imparando a identificarle, distinguerle e utilizzarle.
★★★★★ (4 ratings)

Statistical Molecular Thermodynamics
University of Minnesota via Coursera
This introductory physical chemistry course examines the connections between molecular properties and the behavior of macroscopic chemical systems.
★★★★☆ (4 ratings)

Statistical Mechanics: Algorithms and Computations
École normale supérieure via Coursera
In this course you will learn a whole lot of modern physics (classical and quantum) from basic computer programs that you will download, generalize, or write from scratch, discuss, and then hand in. Join in if you are curious (but not necessarily knowledgeable) about algorithms, and about the deep insights into science that you can obtain by the algorithmic approach.
★★★★★ (3 ratings)

Stanford ME356 Hypersonic Aerothermodynamics Spring 2020-2021
Stanford University via YouTube
This playlist contains the 19 video lectures of the Stanford ME356 Hypersonic Aerothermodynamics graduate class offered online during the Spring quarters of 2020 and 2021 because of the covid lockdown.
★★★★★ (2 ratings)

AP® Physics 2 – Part 1: Fluids and Thermodynamics
Rice University via edX
The first course in a comprehensive series designed to prepare you for the AP Physics 2 exam, focusing on thermodynamics and fluids.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Basic Thermodynamics
NPTEL via YouTube
The course covers lessons in Introduction and Fundamental Concepts, Zeroth Law and Fundamental Concepts, Different Kind of Energy and First Low, First Low, Second Law and Its Corollaries, Second Law and Available Energy, Joule-Kelvin Expansion, Properties of Pure Substances, Ideal Gases, Vapor Power Cycle, and Gas Power Cycle.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Thermodynamics & Kinetics (Spring 2008)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare
This subject deals primarily with equilibrium properties of macroscopic systems, basic thermodynamics, chemical equilibrium of reactions in gas and solution phase, and rates of chemical reactions.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Energy and Thermodynamics
Harvard University via edX
Learn the fundamentals of chemistry and energy, from the types of energy to atomic mass and matter to enthalpy and thermodynamics.

Fundamentals of Macroscopic and Microscopic Thermodynamics
University of Colorado Boulder via Coursera
This course explores the basics of both macroscopic and microscopic thermodynamics from a postulatory point of view. In this view, the meaning of temperature, thermodynamic pressure and chemical potential are especially clear and easy to understand.

Statistical Thermodynamics: Molecules to Machines
Carnegie Mellon University via Coursera
This course will develop a molecular-level understanding of key thermodynamic quantities like heat, work, free energy and entropy. These concepts will be applied in understanding several important engineering and biological applications.

Thermodynamics & Kinetics
NPTEL via YouTube
This course will cover classical thermodynamics and kinetics developed to explain a variety of macroscopic physico-chemical phenomena with applications in Chemistry.

Non-Equilibrium Applications of Statistical Thermodynamics
University of Colorado Boulder via Coursera
This course explores three different applications of non-equilibrium statistical thermodynamics. The first is the transport behavior of ideal gases, with some discussion of transport in dense gases and liquids.

Laws of thermodynamics
NPTEL via YouTube
In the present course, we will discuss the laws of thermodynamics and its corollaries.

Thermodynamics of Materials
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
Thermodynamics of Materials describes the fundamental competition between energy and disorder that determines the state of materials at equilibrium.

Chemical Thermodynamics I: Thermodynamics and Statistical Mechanics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
Based on 5.601 Thermodynamics I, this course introduces learners to fundamental concepts in thermodynamics and statistical mechanics. Learners will develop an understanding of fundamental thermodynamic principles and how they arise from molecular scale system properties.

Thermodynamics and Phase Equilibria
Stanford University via edX
This course, based on MATSCI 204 Thermodynamics and Phase Equilibria , introduces learners to thermodynamics and and how it governs phase equilibria. It is intended for a general audience, and is especially useful as a preparatory course for undergraduate and graduate students who are about to take their first class in thermodynamics.

Introduction to Thermodynamics
University of Hull via FutureLearn
Discover the laws of thermodynamics as you learn how to calculate chemical properties and predict chemical reactions.

More on Class Central: 120+ Thermodynamics courses.

Quantum Mechanics Online Courses

Quantum Mechanics for Everyone
Georgetown University via edX
Learn the fundamental notions of quantum mechanics at a level that is accessible to everyone. This course is listed as one of the best online courses of all time by Class Central and was a finalist for the 2018 edX Prize for Exceptional Contributions to Online Teaching and Learning.
★★★★★ (113 ratings)

Quantum Mechanics
Georgetown University via edX
Learn the quantum mechanics needed to prepare you for the second quantum revolution (focused on quantum sensing). We use a new way to teach quantum for undergraduates by focusing on conceptual ideas and operator manipulations.
★★★★★ (17 ratings)

Applications of Quantum Mechanics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
This course focuses on essential techniques needed for practical applications and research in Quantum Mechanics. We introduce a variety of approximation methods to understand systems that have no analytic solutions.
★★★★★ (15 ratings)

Exploring Quantum Physics
University of Maryland, College Park via Coursera
An introduction to quantum physics with emphasis on topics at the frontiers of research, and developing understanding through exercise.
★★★★☆ (10 ratings)

Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 2
Stanford University via edX
This course covers key topics in the use of quantum mechanics in many modern applications in science and technology, introduces core advanced concepts such as spin, identical particles, the quantum mechanics of light, the basics of quantum information, and the interpretation of quantum mechanics, and covers the major ways in which quantum mechanics is written and used in modern practice.
★★★★★ (4 ratings)

Mastering Quantum Mechanics Part 3: Entanglement and Angular Momentum
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
Learn about entanglement and Bell inequalities, representations and addition of angular momentum, and central potentials.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Quantum Mechanics
University of Colorado Boulder via Coursera
This course presents an introduction to quantum mechanics at a level appropriate for those with mechanical or aerospace engineering backgrounds. Using a postulatory approach that describes the steps to follow, the Schrodinger wave equation is derived and simple solutions obtained that illustrate atomic and molecular structural behavior.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Mastering Quantum Mechanics Part 2: Quantum Dynamics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
Learn about the Heisenberg uncertainty principle, quantum dynamics and two-state systems.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Mécanique quantique
École Polytechnique via Coursera
Comme l’ont montré de plus en plus d’expériences effectuées dès le début du vingtième siècle, les lois de la mécanique newtonienne cessent d’être valables dès qu’on tente de les appliquer à très petite échelle, celle des atomes, des molécules ou des noyaux. On entre alors dans le domaine de la mécanique quantique, où les lois physiques prennent une tout autre nature qui a pu être formalisée de manière rigoureuse à la fin des années 1920.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Mastering Quantum Mechanics Part 1: Wave Mechanics
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via edX
Learn the foundations of quantum mechanics, including wave mechanics, spin one-half states, linear algebra and bra-ket notation of Dirac.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Quantum Physics II (Fall 2013)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare
Topics covered in this course include the general formalism of quantum mechanics, harmonic oscillator, quantum mechanics in three-dimensions, angular momentum, spin, and addition of angular momentum.

Understanding Modern Physics II: Quantum Mechanics and Atoms
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology via Coursera
The 20th century was known as the century of physics. In the past 120 years, concepts such as space, time, energy, entropy and particles were understood to much deeper levels. New paradigms of thinking such as relativity and quantum mechanics emerged.

Quantum Physics III (Spring 2018)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare
This course introduces some of the important model systems studied in contemporary physics, including two-dimensional electron systems, the fine structure of hydrogen, lasers, and particle scattering.

Introductory Quantum Mechanics
NPTEL via YouTube
The focus of the course is going to be the ideas behind quantum mechanics and its application to simple systems. The course is taught along the lines of development of quantum mechanics so that students get a good feeling about the subject.

Quantum Mechanics for Scientists and Engineers 1
Stanford University via edX
This 9 week course aims to teach quantum mechanics to anyone with a reasonable college-level understanding of physical science or engineering. Quantum mechanics was once mostly of interest to physicists, chemists and other basic scientists.

Foundations of Quantum Mechanics
University of Colorado Boulder via Coursera
This course covers the fundamental concepts and topics of quantum mechanics which include basic concepts, 1D potential problems, time evolution of quantum states, and essential linear algebra.

Introductory Quantum Mechanics
Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur via Swayam
This is the first course in Quantum Mechanics. The focus of the course is going to be the ideas behind quantum mechanics and its application to simple systems.

Quantum Mechanics of Molecular Structures
University of Tokyo via edX
Learn two methods used to determine molecular structures and their properties in this introduction to Quantum Mechanics.

More on Class Central: 110+ Quantum Mechanics courses.

Relativity Online Courses

Understanding Einstein: The Special Theory of Relativity
Stanford University via Coursera
In this course we will seek to “understand Einstein,” especially focusing on the special theory of relativity that Albert Einstein, as a twenty-six year old patent clerk, introduced in his “miracle year” of 1905. Our goal will be to go behind the myth-making and beyond the popularized presentations of relativity in order to gain a deeper understanding of both Einstein the person and the concepts, predictions, and strange paradoxes of his theory.
★★★★★ (19 ratings)

Special Relativity
Columbia University via World Science U
Einstein’s Special Relativity upended our understanding of space, time and energy. While the ideas are subtle, they only require high school algebra, so join this math-based introduction with acclaimed physicist and author, Brian Greene.
★★★★☆ (4 ratings)

MIT 8.20 Introduction to Special Relativity, January IAP 2021
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via YouTube
★★★★★ (1 rating)

General Relativity (Spring 2020)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare
Course covers the basic principles of Einstein’s general theory of relativity, differential geometry, experimental tests of general relativity, black holes, and cosmology.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Relativity and Astrophysics
Cornell University via edX
Explore the powerful and intriguing connections between astronomy and Einstein’s theory of relativity.
★★★☆☆ (6 ratings)

Special Relativity
Stanford University via YouTube
In this course, Professor Susskind takes a close look at the special theory of relativity and also at classical field theory.

Explore Einstein’s theories of Relativity using Wolfram
Coursera Project Network via Coursera
Explore Einstein’s theories of Relativity using Wolfram.

Curved Spacetime in General Relativity
PBS via YouTube

Special Theory of Relativity
NPTEL via YouTube
In this course we will explore and explain many of the (often) counter-intuitive but fundamental principles of the Special Theory.

Special Relativity
via Brilliant
Get up to (light) speed on Einstein’s theory of relativity.

Special Theory of Relativity
NPTEL via YouTube
This is a course on Special Theory of Relativity, which revolutionized our concept of physics in the last century by unifying concepts of space and time, electricity and magnetism and mass and energy. In this course, we will explore and explain many of the (often) counter-intuitive but fundamental principles of the Special Theory.

Understanding Modern Physics I: Relativity and Cosmology
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology via Coursera
The 20th century was known as the century of physics. In the past 120 years, concepts such as space, time, energy, entropy and particles were understood to much deeper levels.

General Relativity and Gravity | What Einstein Discovered
Wondrium via YouTube

Particle Physics Online Courses

Particle Physics: an Introduction
University of Geneva via Coursera
This course introduces you to subatomic physics, i.e. the physics of nuclei and particles.
★★★★★ (2 ratings)

Nuclear Physics: Fundamentals and Applications
NPTEL via YouTube
This Basics course on Nuclear physics will give an introductory but still rigorous description of both experimental and theoretical aspects of the present understanding of nuclei and their interaction.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Nuclear and Particle Physics
NPTEL via YouTube
The first part of the course will discuss nuclear physics. Properties of nuclei and details of popular nuclear models, properties of nuclear decays and nuclear reactions will be discussed in brief, but in a self-consistent manner. The second part will discuss the basics of particle physics.
★★★★☆ (1 rating)

Particle Dynamics
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology via Coursera
This course teaches dynamics, one of the basic mechanics subjects of Mechanical Engineering. Students would be able to organize their knowledge about force and motion, work-energy, impulse-momentum in view of Newton’s 2nd law and its integration over time and displacement.

Introduction to Nuclear Engineering and Ionizing Radiation (Fall 2016)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare
This course provides an introduction to nuclear science and its engineering, as well as industrial and medical applications of nuclear science.

Introduction to Particle Accelerators (NPAP MOOC)
Lund University via Coursera
Welcome to the Nordic Particle Accelerator Program’s (NPAP) Massive Open Online Courses and to the fascinating world of particle accelerators! Did you know that in the year of 2000 there were more than 15 000 particle accelerators in the world?

Particle physics
The Open University via OpenLearn

Fundamentals of particle accelerator technology (NPAP MOOC)
Lund University via Coursera
Did you know that particle accelerators play an important role in many functions of todays society and that there are over 30 000 accelerators in operation worldwide? A few examples are accelerators for radiotherapy which are the largest application of accelerators, altogether with more than 11000 accelerators worldwide!

Nuclear and Particle Physics
Indian Institute of Technology Guwahati via Swayam
The first part of the course will discuss nuclear physics. Properties of nuclei and details of popular nuclear models, properties of nuclear decays and nuclear reactions will be discussed in brief, but in a self-consistent manner.

Beyond Higgs: The Wild Frontier of Particle Physics
World Science Festival via YouTube

粒子世界探秘 Exploring Particle World
Shanghai Jiao Tong University via Coursera
This course gives an brief introduction of the main content and the frontier of particle physics in popular language. It includes: matter and antimatter, quark and strong interaction, neutrino and weak interaction, symmetry and its applications, standard model of particle physics, particle astronomy, dark matter etc.

Particle Accelerators Reimagined – with Suzie Sheehy
The Royal Institution via YouTube

Astrophysics Online Courses

Astronomy: Exploring Time and Space
University of Arizona via Coursera
This course is designed for anyone who is interested in learning more about modern astronomy. We will help you get up to date on the most recent astronomical discoveries while also providing support at an introductory level for those who have no background in science.
★★★★★ (23 ratings)

From the Big Bang to Dark Energy
University of Tokyo via Coursera
We have learned a lot recently about how the Universe evolved in 13.7 billion years since the Big Bang. More than 80% of matter in the Universe is mysterious Dark Matter, which made stars and galaxies to form.
★★★★☆ (17 ratings)

Astrophysics: Cosmology
Australian National University via edX
Exploring the origin, fate and nature of our universe.
★★★★★ (9 ratings)

Astrophysics: Exploring Exoplanets
Australian National University via edX
Explore the mysteries of exoplanets – planets around other stars – in this introductory astrophysics course.
★★★★★ (9 ratings)

Astro 101: Black Holes
University of Alberta via Coursera
What is a black hole? Do they really exist? How do they form? How are they related to stars? What would happen if you fell into one? How do you see a black hole if they emit no light?
★★★★★ (9 ratings)

Astrophysics: The Violent Universe
Australian National University via edX
Explore the deadliest places in the universe, from black holes to supernovae.
★★★★★ (6 ratings)

Introduction à l’astrophysique
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne via edX
Ce cours décrit les principaux concepts physiques utilisés en astrophysique. Il est proposé à l’EPFL aux étudiants de 2eme année de Bachelor en physique.
★★★★★ (2 ratings)

The Edges of the Universe
Harvard University via World Science U
Breakthrough Prize winner Andrew Strominger and string theorist Cumrun Vafa rediscovered the elusive quantity of black hole entropy in a groundbreaking calculation. Join Professor Strominger for an overview of how string theory has allowed us to understand how, and where, black holes store information.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

New Ideas About Dark Matter
University of Pennsylvania via World Science U
Physicist Justin Khoury explores how quantum effects in dark matter could produce non-Newtonian gravitational force within and between galaxies, ultimately providing a hypothesis for how the observed structure of the universe might have arisen.
★★★★☆ (1 rating)

100 Years of Gravitational Waves
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via World Science U
Renowned physicist Rai Weiss is best known as one of the original creators of the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO). Join him as he explores the history of this amazing project and the technology that made it a reality.
★★★★★ (1 rating)

Introduction to Astrophysics
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne via edX
Learn about the physical phenomena at play in astronomical objects and link theoretical predictions to observations.
★★★★☆ (1 rating)

The Black Hole Information Paradox
Ohio State University via World Science U
String theorist Samir Mathur has been working for many years on this yet-unsolved problem and has developed a radical proposal to the so-called information paradox.

Exploring the Warped Universe
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via World Science U
On September 14, 2015, the LIGO gravitational wave detectors made the first confirmed detection of a gravitational wave. Join physicist Nergis Mavalvala as she takes you on an incredible journey from LIGO’s humble beginnings to its groundbreaking discovery.

Einstein’s Astrophysical Messengers
Louisiana State University via World Science U
Gabriela González’s team at LIGO uses ground-based experiments to search for gravitational waves produced by black holes. In this Master Class, learn how they conduct this search and what mysteries they hope to solve about our universe.

Cosmic Rays, Dark Matter, and the Mysteries of the Universe
Waseda University via edX
Join us on a unique exploration of one of the universe’s deepest mysteries: cosmic rays

Plasma Physics: Applications
École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne via edX
Learn about plasma applications from nuclear fusion powering the sun, to making integrated circuits, to generating electricity.

The Challenging Search for Elusive Dark Matter
The University of Texas at Austin via World Science U
Astrophysicist Katherine Freese explores the origins and composition of our universe, a quarter of which is thought to be comprised of dark matter, and how scientists are searching for the elusive particles that might comprise dark matter.

Astrophysics
Australian National University via edX
The Astrophysics XSeries Program consists of four foundational courses in astrophysics taught by prestigious leaders in the field, including Nobel Prize winners. You will be taught by Brian Schmidt, who led the team that discovered dark energy – work which won him the 2011 Nobel Prize for Physics, and by prize-winning educator, science communicator and astrophysics researcher Paul Francis.

Astrophysics for Kids
via Study.com
Help your elementary school students review basic astrophysics concepts with this convenient online course. The course’s fun lessons and quizzes can help your students study for exams, complete science homework, catch up in class and earn better grades.

Astrophysics
Serious Science via YouTube

Astrophysics
via Brilliant
Unlock cosmic wonders, from star life cycles to the fate of the universe.

Astronomy/Astrophysics
Professor Dave Explains via YouTube

Sounds and Acoustics Online Courses

Physics-Based Sound Synthesis for Games and Interactive Systems
Stanford University via Kadenze
This course introduces the basics of Digital Signal Processing and computational acoustics, motivated by the vibrational physics of real-world objects and systems.
★★★★★ (22 ratings)

Introduction to Sound and Acoustic Sketching
University St. Joseph via Kadenze
Introduction to Sound and Acoustic Sketching will offer tools and practices  to inspire students to approach sound and acoustics as elements in the sketching stage of a design project. The course provides students with foundational knowledge and practical tools to analyze and use soundscapes and acoustic impulse responses in projects.
★★★★★ (4 ratings)

Fundamentals of Communication Acoustics
RWTH Aachen University via edX
In this course, we will cover the fundamentals of communication acoustics, which is the way sounds travel from a source through a channel to a receiver. We will also look at different system components involved in acoustic communication.
★★★★★ (3 ratings)

Applications in Communication Acoustics
RWTH Aachen University via edX
Explore the different system components involved in acoustic communication using a representative set of practical applications.
★★★★★ (2 ratings)

Intro to Acoustics (Part 1)
Korea Advanced Institute of Science and Technology via Coursera
This course introduces acoustics by using the concept of impedance. The course starts with vibrations and waves, demonstrating how vibration can be envisaged as a kind of wave, mathematically and physically.
★★★★☆ (1 rating)

Fundamentals of waves and vibrations
École Polytechnique via Coursera
Waves are everywhere. On water of course, but also in the air as you hear a plane, and under your feet during an earthquake certainly. Vibrations, too, are everywhere In your bike as you go over a bump, in you guitar as you play, and of course in your smartphone.

Communication Acoustics
RWTH Aachen University via edX
Learn about the various ways we hear and perceive sound and how to improve technology and products for better communication.

Les bases de l’acoustique : la voix dans tous ses états
Le Mans Université via France Université Numerique
Le MOOC « Les bases de l’acoustique : La voix dans tous ses états », réalisé par Le Mans Université, vous invite à découvrir l’acoustique de façon innovante et amusante : expériences, défi à relever…

Optics Online Courses

Exploring Light: Hands-on Activities and Strategies for Teachers
Exploratorium via Coursera
This is an Exploratorium teacher professional development course taught by Teacher Institute staff, open to any science teacher (particularly middle or high school level) and science enthusiast. This is a hands-on workshop that explores topics and strategies teachers can use to help their students become active investigators of light.
★★★★☆ (1 rating)

Optics 101: Translating Theory into Practice
Thorlabs via YouTube

★★★★☆ (1 rating)

Optical Efficiency and Resolution
University of Colorado Boulder via Coursera
Optical instruments are how we see the world, from corrective eyewear to medical endoscopes to cell phone cameras to orbiting telescopes. This course will teach you how to design such optical systems with simple mathematical and graphical techniques.

Atomic and Optical Physics II (Spring 2013)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology via MIT OpenCourseWare
This is the second of a two-semester subject sequence beginning with Atomic and Optical Physics I (8.421) that provides the foundations for contemporary research in selected areas of atomic and optical physics.

Ray Optics Class 12
via YouTube
You will learn about reflection of light, spherical mirror, concave mirror, convex mirror, refraction, total internal reflection, real and apparent depth, lens, prism, optical instruments, the human eye, microscope, and much more.

Quantum Optics 2 – Two photons and more
École Polytechnique via Coursera
In “Quantum Optics 2, Two photons and more”, will allow learners to use the Quantum Optics formalism to describe entangled photon, a unique feature at the root of the second quantum revolution and its applications to quantum technologies.

Ray Optics JEE/NEET
via YouTube
In this course, you will learn about Ray Optics for JEE and NEET. You will learn about reflection in a plane mirror, number of images formed by two plane mirrors, velocity in plane mirror, spherical mirrors, image formation by concave and convex mirrors for different positions of objects, Mirror’s Formula, magnification.

AP® Physics 2 – Part 3: Optics and Modern Physics
Rice University via edX
The third course in a comprehensive series designed to prepare you for the AP Physics 2 exam, focusing on optics and modern physics.

Exploring concepts of Optics using Wolfram notebook
Coursera Project Network via Coursera
Exploring concepts of Optics using Wolfram notebook

Waves & Optics
via edX
This course covers the physics of waves on strings, electromagnetic waves, geometrical optics, interference, diffraction, and image formation.

基礎光學一 (Introduction to Optics (1))
National Taiwan University via Coursera
以深入淺出的概念說明日常生活與科學應用中常見的光學現象，特色在於大量的範例以及實驗展示。

Bringing STEM to Light: Teaching about Light and Optics
LASER Classroom via Canvas Network
Light is a familiar and fascinating topic for children and adults. This self-paced, 5-week course celebrates the International Year of Light by preparing and inspiring formal and informal educators to teach children ages 6-14 the fundamentals of light and optics.