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.
Prospective Physics 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.
Physics Course Considerations Abroad
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 those 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.
Mapping Your Study Abroad Experience as a Psychology Major
Please see the Physics Guide page for specific degree requirements. Physics students should meet with an advisor to determine appropriate courses to take abroad.
- 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 be abroad so it is highly recommended you discuss with your advisor on whether going abroad during 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 when considering studying abroad senior year on whether you are able to manage that.
Questions to Ask
Your Academic Advisor
- 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.
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?
Identifying 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:
Europe
- Lund University Exchange
- Academic Year in Freiburg
- Lancaster University Exchange
- Cardiff University
- University of Manchester Exchange
Asia
- Nanyang Technological University Exchange
- National University of Singapore Exchange
- Hong Kong University of Science & Technology Exchange
Oceania
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.
Search all programs
Research all programs using the Program Search page. The above is not an exhaustive list of all programs that offer Physics courses. There may be other programs that are a better fit for your individual needs or interests.