Major Advising Page: Physics
The Department of Physics 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, physics 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
Physics majors need to keep in mind that at least 15 credits of physics 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, students should discuss with their advisor whether taking that course abroad meets their academic goals.
Note that some students take no physics classes abroad and still graduate in four years. Therefore, you do not necessarily need to limit yourself to programs with 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 the best options for you.
Map your experience as a
physics student
Please see the physics Guide page for specific degree requirements. Physics students should meet with an advisor to determine appropriate courses to take abroad.
Prospective students
Physics majors are encouraged to work closely with their major advisor to plan their study abroad experience. Students should not study abroad for the semester or academic year until they have declared the major and completed their introductory course sequence, as it is exceptionally difficult to find courses abroad that are equivalent to the introductory physics sequence that UW requires. For many students, junior year is the best time to study abroad for the semester or academic year.
Freshman year
Students should be focused on their calculus and introductory physics courses this year. Winter intersession or summer programs should be your only consideration for studying abroad 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, students will be finishing their introductory physics sequence this academic year, either in the fall or spring. If finished in the fall, it may be possible for students to go abroad in the spring and complete some upper-level coursework there. However, it can be challenging to have your first upper-level physics course abroad, so it is highly recommended that you discuss with your advisor whether going abroad during your sophomore year is right for you.
Junior year
This is by far the best year for 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 physics electives abroad that may count toward the 35 credits needed for the major. 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
Students can study abroad in their final year. Advanced physics electives can be found abroad and are equated as direct equivalents or electives that will count towards the advanced coursework requirement in the 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 whether studying abroad senior year on whether you can 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 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
When working to identify a study abroad program that is right for you, consider your personal, academic, and professional goals. Study abroad should be an opportunity that takes into account you as an entire individual, not just as a student.
The programs listed all offer advanced coursework in Physics that will satisfy various requirements for the major. Courses offered as part of these programs may not be guaranteed to be the best fit for you, depending on where you are in the major, and may not be offered every semester.
In this section
These opportunities are not an exhaustive list of all programs.
Semester and academic year programs
Germany
New Zealand
Sweden
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: Gabriel Sanchez (Wales)
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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