Major Advising Page – Applied Math, Engineering, and Physics

Introduction

Math and science are universal fields that students have many opportunities to explore- domestically and internationally. Studying abroad is an invaluable opportunity for you to explore your passions in a new cultural and environmental context. We encourage you to expand your world knowledge alongside your classroom knowledge in a place you’re excited about.

Prospective students

We expect students to have proper preparation in calculus (through MATH 234) and introductory physics (in PHYSICS 249/PHYSICS 241) to be declared into the AMEP degree program. Some exceptions may be made based on a student’s circumstances. If you are interested in the degree, please meet with an AMEP advisor to talk about course planning and declaration.

Major course considerations abroad

AMEP students must complete 15 credits in AMEP program courses on the UW-Madison campus. Courses taken on an approved UW-Madison study abroad program will count as in-residence credits needed for the degree, but not for the 15 on-campus credits.

It can be somewhat challenging to fulfill upper-level AMEP requirements abroad since some courses may not have direct equivalents. Fulfilling general education requirements (humanities, social sciences, etc.) will be easier. However, there are several programs with advanced coursework in math, physics, and engineering that can work for an AMEP student if you plan carefully.

Mapping your study abroad experience as an AMEP major

Please see the AMEP Guide page for specific degree requirements. AMEP students should meet with an AMEP advisor to determine appropriate courses before studying abroad.

Freshman year
Typically, students are focused on building a balanced schedule with introductory physics and calculus courses. Look into winter, spring break, or summer programs if studying abroad early on is a priority for you. If you plan to study abroad later, start exploring potential programs and plan to attend the Study Abroad Fair, which occurs each fall.
Sophomore year
Some students have finished their introductory physics sequence by this year, and others are still working through it. Depending on where you are, studying abroad during a Fall or Spring semester may or may not be the best option for you. This is a good time to meet with your advisor to determine where to fit a semester abroad into your degree plan.
Junior year
This is the most popular year to study abroad for students since most of the core math and physics coursework is done. There are several programs that have PHYSICS 311 and 322 equivalents, allowing students to finish up their core physics work abroad if needed. There are many programs that have advanced math, physics, and engineering electives you can take. Make sure to check in with your advisor to make plans for your next semester after you return.
Senior year
Studying abroad in your final year is definitely possible, but it will require careful planning to make sure all degree requirements will be satisfied. Keep in mind that many graduate school applications are due at the end of the fall semester, so going abroad would mean asking for letters of recommendation and getting feedback on your application materials remotely. Also, keep in mind that you would have to engage in post-graduation job recruitment and searching remotely as well if you go abroad. These are not reasons to avoid studying abroad in your final year, but are factors that need to be planned for ahead of time.

Summer or winter intersession

As an alternative, you may choose to go abroad during the summer or winter intersession. While most of these programs won’t help with AMEP degree progress, they are still valuable and may be a great option for some students. Meet with your advisors to talk about the best options for you.

Questions to ask

Your Academic Advisor

What classes must I complete for my degree?
Do I need to be on UW-Madison’s campus for any courses in AMEP?
How many electives do I have outside of AMEP?
Will this particular course count toward a direct equivalency?

For questions regarding the above topics, the best AMEP advisor to contact is Morgan Adams (book an appointment via Starfish).

Your Study Abroad Advisor

What classes can I take abroad?
How and when do I select courses for my program?
When will I know course equivalents for my program?
What is the class structure like abroad?

Hear from students in your major

Explore student blogs and reflections to see how your peers have connected international experiences to their studies. Discover real stories about the skills, challenges, and professional insights gained through our programs.

Programs

When deciding on a study abroad program, focus on finding a place that will offer the most to you. Consider your personal, academic, and professional goals in order to pick a program that will serve you as a whole person, not only as a student. You will likely find many programs that fit your goals and interests. Here are some programs that have strong offerings in math, physics, and/or engineering. Many programs have math and physics offerings; these are not all of them. There may be another program that suits your goals and needs better than these, so please search all of their programs for your best fit.

International Internships

International internships are another way to gain valuable professional experience abroad while earning course credit. While you can often participate in a part-time internship as part of your study abroad program, it is also possible to participate in an Internship-focused program or a UW Signature Internship.

Search all programs

Research all programs using the Program Search page. The above is not an exhaustive list of all programs. There may be other programs that are a better fit for your individual needs or interests.