Physics is one of the oldest academic disciplines and focuses on the study of matter as well as its motion through space and time. This area of study yields a particularly diverse list of online courses since it intersects with other natural science disciplines, such as chemistry and biology. Often, college physics programs will focus on the physical relation to one of these areas of study; thus establishing vital subfields such as quantum chemistry and electromagnetism, which are responsible for contextualizing the knowledge needed to advanced industrialism and modern technological convenience as it is known today.
Since physical principles are so intimately intertwined in nearly every natural science discipline, you will have the opportunity to choose from a number of online physics courses and truly tailor your class work to your academic interests. However, an online physics course can be offered at either an undergraduate or graduate level so you may need to earn an area-specific bachelor's degree prior to enrolling in some courses. The open enrollment format for some online courses will not twist your arm to earn a physics degree, but understanding the advanced principles therein will be much simpler and streamlined with a strong background in physics and natural sciences. Additionally, there are no official accrediting agencies for open online courses in physics, which means there are no ironclad prerequisites for enrolling in online courses.
An online physics class is a viable tool to gain introductory knowledge in fields such as thermodynamics, string theory, relativity, and astrophysics. During these courses, you may find yourself asking some of the following questions:
Peruse the directory below for relevant open courseware in physics. Open courseware is a collection of online tests, video lectures, and related course materials from mostly prestigious universities around the world. While these materials are mostly non-restrictive and free to access, you will have to learn independently since you cannot interact with the professor of the course. However, these courses can be excellent resources if you are considering an on-campus or online physics degree and want to gauge your interest in the subject and your ability to meet classroom requirements.
Developed with the assistance of the Office of Naval Research, this physical science online course uses a physics tutoring program to supplement problems on mechanics, electricity, and magnetism. To access the course material, you will need Windows Media Player and Andes installed on your computer, both of which are available free of charge. Designed to supplement other physics study aids and workbooks, this program is ideal for undergraduate physics students.