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École Polytechnique

Density Functional Theory

The aim of this course is to give a thorough introduction to Density Functional Theory (DFT). DFT is today the most widely used method to study interacting electrons, and its applicability ranges from atoms to solid systems, from nuclei to quantum fluids. In this course, we introduce the most important concepts underlying DFT, its foundation, and basic ideas. We will in particular stress the features and reasons that lead DFT to become the dominant method for simulating quantum mechanical systems. The course is intended for students and researchers with knowledge of basic quantum mechanics. No experience in simulation or solid-state physics is required. We try to give a concise mathematical background when particular concepts are needed.

Status: Applied Mathematics
Status: Semiconductors
AdvancedCourse25 hours

Featured reviews

BA

4.0Reviewed Aug 6, 2022

V​ery advanced courSe focused on the basics and development of DFT but the course should be a bit on how to use DFT practically

NT

5.0Reviewed May 18, 2023

This course benefits me because it provides knowledge from fundamental to advanced about DFT and its applications! I enjoy this course!

PK

5.0Reviewed Jun 23, 2022

All the lectures are very nicely prepared and explained. I learned a lot related to DFT concepts through this course. I really thank the entire Ecole Team for their effort in such a nice course.

DP

5.0Reviewed Jun 18, 2022

more application base examples should be thaught this course was more theoritical and after completing my course I still dont know how to implement on my work

ZW

5.0Reviewed Jan 22, 2022

This course is fantastic. I've learn a lot from this courses, such as KS equation, many-body wavefunction, and other theories.

BB

4.0Reviewed Jun 14, 2023

it was great for people who already have a bit of knowledge about the whole thing but not highly recomended for young starters

SW

4.0Reviewed Mar 17, 2022

I like the way this course explains the DFT. It would be better if we can have some practice on small project, even trivial, such as using VASP or GPAW, if possible.

QA

5.0Reviewed Dec 3, 2022

DFT has become the dominant method for simulating quantum mechanical systems. It was an honor to learn DFT fundamentals from this prestigious institute via Coursera.

AA

5.0Reviewed Mar 27, 2023

Although I am a materials engineering student, I found the course very valuable and gained a good understanding of the discussed theory

SG

5.0Reviewed Jul 16, 2021

Excellent introductory course on DFT for anyone who is about to begin serious study of condensed matter physics and materials.

GA

5.0Reviewed Jan 27, 2025

It was very enlightening, I could understand a lot of points I have missed during classes and even learned a few cool facts

JL

4.0Reviewed Feb 9, 2023

This class focused a little bit more on theory rather than execution of DFT simulations than I would have liked. However, it provided an excellent foundation that has helped me in my career.

All reviews

Showing: 20 of 83

Abdul Hanan Khan
5.0
Reviewed Feb 11, 2021
ARKA PRAVA SARKAR
5.0
Reviewed Mar 6, 2021
Nithin K Rajendran
5.0
Reviewed Jul 9, 2021
Barton Willis
1.0
Reviewed Dec 10, 2025
Saptarshi Ghosh Dastider
5.0
Reviewed Jun 8, 2021
Bahar
4.0
Reviewed Jun 15, 2023
Venkata Shivakumar Remella
3.0
Reviewed Jan 17, 2022
Juan Castresana
5.0
Reviewed Oct 4, 2022
Barsha Bhattacharjee
5.0
Reviewed May 21, 2021
Nikolaos Patsalidis
5.0
Reviewed Oct 7, 2021
Gabriel Vinícius
5.0
Reviewed Feb 18, 2022
Ifeanyichukwu Okonkwo
5.0
Reviewed Jun 24, 2021
Efthalia Arvanitidou
5.0
Reviewed Aug 3, 2025
IBRAHIM MAMMADOV
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Reviewed Jan 3, 2026
Amey Joshi
5.0
Reviewed Jun 19, 2022
Deepak Somani
5.0
Reviewed Aug 4, 2021
Shrikant Yadav
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Reviewed May 11, 2024
David Garcia Aldea
5.0
Reviewed May 17, 2021
Punit Kumar
5.0
Reviewed Jun 24, 2022
Sriram J
5.0
Reviewed Oct 31, 2025