Major Advising Page: Applied Math, Engineering, and Physics
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.
Course considerations
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.
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.
Map your experience as an AMEP student
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.
Ask questions
- 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).
- What classes can I take on my program?
- 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 for my program?
- What skills do careers related to my major require, and how might participating in a particular program help me gain those skills?
- When would be the best time to participate in a program based on my career goals?
- How will participating in a study abroad, study away, or international internship make me stand out?
- Why do I want to study abroad?
- How long do I want to study abroad for — a few weeks, a semester, a year?
- How does studying abroad fit into my academic, personal, and/or professional goals?
- What career skills or proficiencies will I strive to acquire or enhance on my program?
Discover programs that are right for you
The following are programs that may be of interest to you! Durations and courses vary and may count toward electives or degree requirements. If you do not have specific requirements, there’s more flexibility in program type and location.
These opportunities are not an exhaustive list of all programs.
In this section
Semester and academic year programs
Denmark
Japan
South Africa
Sweden
Wales
Short-term programs
Ireland
University College Dublin Physics (summer)
International Internships
International internships allow you to apply your academic skills to the real world and gain valuable professional experience abroad while earning UW–Madison course credit.
As you consider your academic and professional goals for studying abroad, explore the different internship options, including UW Signature internships, internship-focused programs, part-time internships, or applying for credit for an external internship.
Check with your academic advisor to see if earning credit for your internship abroad can fulfill a major or certificate requirement.
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.
Photo credit: Greg Adler (England)
Want more information?
Dive deeper into how courses and credits work on our programs, or connect with an advisor to find the best fit for your goals.
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