Skip to main content

Learn fluid mechanics

Study how fluids respond to different forces and learn how this knowledge can be applied to mechanical engineering, biology, astrophysics, and other disciplines. Enroll in online fluid mechanics courses delivered through edX.

What is fluid mechanics?

Fluid mechanics is a branch of physics that studies fluids and their behaviors in response to different forces. It has two main branches: fluid statics (the study of fluids at rest) and fluid dynamics (the study of forces and their effects on fluid motion). A newer branch known as computational fluid dynamics uses computers to solve problems through numerical approaches.

Fluid Mechanics | Introduction Image Description

Maximize your potential

Sign up for special offers, career resources, and recommendations that will help you grow, prepare, and advance in your career.

Browse online Fluid Mechanics courses


Stand out in your field

Use the knowledge and skills you have gained to drive impact at work and grow your career.

Learn at your own pace

On your computer, tablet or phone, online courses make learning flexible to fit your busy life.

Earn a valuable credential

Showcase your key skills and valuable knowledge.





Fluid mechanics course curriculum

For those interested in learning about fluid mechanics without prior physics knowledge, it can help to start with a foundational course. These courses can introduce concepts like hydrostatics, buoyancy, viscosity, Bernoulli's theorems, and continuum mechanics. More advanced courses for experienced learners may cover viscous flows such as pipe flows, dimensional analysis, and transient responses. Learners also have the option to explore fluid dynamics and fluid mechanics from a mechanical engineering perspective, mastering concepts in fluid flow, hydrodynamics, and kinematics.

From foundational tutorials to advanced courses, a variety of educational opportunities are available that can fit different learners’ needs. edX makes it easy to explore all available training and certificate options.

How can learning fluid mechanics help careers?

By understanding fluid properties, researchers can answer questions and solve challenges in engineering, physics, and other innovative fields. Courses in fluid mechanics can introduce a range of concepts, from non-Newtonian fluids to aerodynamics, that learners will need to build careers in this field.