Major Advising Page: Astronomy-Physics
The Department of Astronomy at UW–Madison recognizes that studying abroad is an important opportunity to gain unique perspectives about the fundamental nature of our universe. Studying abroad is a great chance for students to challenge themselves in a new location and culture.
Furthermore, astronomy is often a collaboration between people of different backgrounds and cultures. Study abroad will introduce students to this idea and hopefully encourage them to seek out future, diverse collaborations in their careers and research.
Course considerations
Astronomy-Physics majors need to keep in mind that at least 15 credits of major coursework must be completed on 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 is exceptionally difficult to find courses abroad that are equivalent to the introductory physics sequence at UW–Madison. It is possible to find some direct equivalents to upper-level coursework abroad. However, you should discuss with your advisor whether taking that course abroad meets your academic goals.
Note that some students take no astronomy or physics classes abroad and still graduate in four years. Therefore, you do not necessarily need to limit yourself to programs with astronomy or physics equivalencies. Programs that help you complete some of your general education requirements can also be beneficial and will likely provide additional programs to choose from. Discuss with your major advisor to determine your best options.
Please see the Astronomy-Physics Guide page for specific degree requirements. Astronomy-Physics students should meet with an advisor to determine which courses are appropriate to take abroad.
Map your experience as an
astronomy-physics student
Astronomy-Physics majors are encouraged to work closely with their major advisor to plan their study abroad experience. You should not study abroad for the semester or academic year until you have declared the major and completed your introductory astronomy and physics course sequence, as it is exceptionally difficult to find equivalent introductory courses abroad. For many students, junior year is the best time to study abroad for the semester or academic year.
Freshman year
You should be focused on your calculus, introductory astronomy, and introductory physics courses this year. Winter or summer programs should be your only consideration for studying abroad in your first year. If you plan to study abroad later, explore potential programs early and attend the Study Abroad Fair in the fall.
Sophomore year
Typically, you will be finishing your introductory physics sequence this academic year, either in the fall or spring. If finished in the fall, it may be possible for you to go abroad and complete some upper-level physics or astronomy courses there.
However, it can be challenging to take your first upper-level astronomy or physics course abroad, so it is highly recommended you discuss with your advisor whether going abroad in your second year is right for you.
Junior year
This is by far the best year for Astronomy-Physics majors to study abroad. Many programs have equivalents to Physics 311, Physics 322, or one of the quantum mechanics courses. Similarly, it is also possible to find advanced astronomy electives abroad that may count toward the three upper-level astronomy courses need for the major, even if they do not exactly transfer back as one of our courses. Check with your advisor to make a plan on what courses to take abroad and how that will affect your schedule and course plan once you return.
Senior year
You can study abroad in your final year. Advanced astronomy electives can be found abroad either as direct equivalents or as electives that will count towards the upper-level astronomy course requirement in the Astronomy-Physics major.
However, note that you may be applying for graduate school or jobs at this point and so being abroad may create difficulties in obtaining letters of recommendation as well as getting feedback and assistance on applications. Carefully consider when considering studying abroad this academic year on whether you are able to manage that.
Ask questions
- What classes must I complete for my degree (breadth/depth, major requirements, etc.)?
- Do I need to be on UW-Madison’s campus for any courses in my major?
- How many electives do I have outside of my major?
For questions regarding the above topics, the best Astronomy-Physics advisor to contact is Evan Heintz (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 on 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 participate on a program?
- How long do I want to participate on a program for – a few weeks, a semester, a year?
- How does participating on a program 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
England
Germany
Scotland
Singapore
Wales
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: Isabella Richter (Germany)
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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