This course introduces the notion of universality, whereby a large zoo of seemingly disparate systems can be described by the same theory. It introduces a powerful and widely applicable concept known as renormalization group which explains where this universality comes from. It introduces some paradigmatic frameworks underpinning condensed matter physics, including band structure and the quasiparticle concept.
Universal Theories
Universal Theories
This course is part of The Physics of Emergence: Introduction to Condensed Matter Specialization
Instructor: Rahul Nandkishore
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
Beginner level
Recommended experience
13 hours to complete
3 weeks at 4 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Explain the concept of universality.
Describe the renormalization group and how it explains universality.
Explain metals and insulators
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Assessments
9 assignments
Taught in English
See how employees at top companies are mastering in-demand skills
Build your subject-matter expertise
This course is part of the The Physics of Emergence: Introduction to Condensed Matter Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
- Learn new concepts from industry experts
- Gain a foundational understanding of a subject or tool
- Develop job-relevant skills with hands-on projects
- Earn a shareable career certificate
Earn a career certificate
Add this credential to your LinkedIn profile, resume, or CV
Share it on social media and in your performance review
There are 4 modules in this course
This module introduces the notion of universality and introduces the renormalization group.
What's included
11 videos1 reading2 assignments1 peer review3 discussion prompts
This module continues the presentation of the renormalization group and explains the emergence of universality.
What's included
10 videos2 assignments2 peer reviews5 discussion prompts
This module explores the basics of the Band Theory of Electrons.
What's included
9 videos2 assignments1 peer review4 discussion prompts
This module provides detailed discussion of metals and insulators.
What's included
8 videos3 assignments2 peer reviews4 discussion prompts
Instructor
Offered by
Recommended if you're interested in Physics and Astronomy
Pohang University of Science and Technology(POSTECH)
Columbia University
Arizona State University
Why people choose Coursera for their career
Felipe M.
Learner since 2018
"To be able to take courses at my own pace and rhythm has been an amazing experience. I can learn whenever it fits my schedule and mood."
Jennifer J.
Learner since 2020
"I directly applied the concepts and skills I learned from my courses to an exciting new project at work."
Larry W.
Learner since 2021
"When I need courses on topics that my university doesn't offer, Coursera is one of the best places to go."
Chaitanya A.
"Learning isn't just about being better at your job: it's so much more than that. Coursera allows me to learn without limits."
Open new doors with Coursera Plus
Unlimited access to 7,000+ world-class courses, hands-on projects, and job-ready certificate programs - all included in your subscription
Advance your career with an online degree
Earn a degree from world-class universities - 100% online
Join over 3,400 global companies that choose Coursera for Business
Upskill your employees to excel in the digital economy
Frequently asked questions
Access to lectures and assignments depends on your type of enrollment. If you take a course in audit mode, you will be able to see most course materials for free. To access graded assignments and to earn a Certificate, you will need to purchase the Certificate experience, during or after your audit. If you don't see the audit option:
The course may not offer an audit option. You can try a Free Trial instead, or apply for Financial Aid.
The course may offer 'Full Course, No Certificate' instead. This option lets you see all course materials, submit required assessments, and get a final grade. This also means that you will not be able to purchase a Certificate experience.
When you enroll in the course, you get access to all of the courses in the Specialization, and you earn a certificate when you complete the work. Your electronic Certificate will be added to your Accomplishments page - from there, you can print your Certificate or add it to your LinkedIn profile. If you only want to read and view the course content, you can audit the course for free.
If you subscribed, you get a 7-day free trial during which you can cancel at no penalty. After that, we don’t give refunds, but you can cancel your subscription at any time. See our full refund policy.