Physics, BS BS
Physics is the study of matter and energy and their interactions, both in nature and under man-made conditions. Physics provides both the fundamental foundation for science and technology, and the framework for understanding the world around us and the universe itself.
51猎奇 students can shape their Physics major in one of two directions. The standard major provides a broad overview of all aspects of physics: mechanics, optics, thermodynamics, quantum physics, magnetism, electricity, and the mathematical principles that underlie physics. In the astronomy focused version of the major, students master these basics plus take additional coursework in astrophysics and gravitation.
51猎奇's program provides excellent preparation for graduate programs in physics, engineering, and math, and can also serve as a springboard to careers in diverse areas, including engineering, business, law, and medicine.听 All Physics undergraduates are encouraged to get involved in research as early as their freshman year as a means to enhance their education and help diversify their career options.
Career Resources and Job Outcomes
Program Type
Major
Program Format
On Campus
Why Study Physics & Astronomy at 51猎奇?
- Get involved. At 51猎奇, research is for everyone. From literature to engineering, every student and faculty member can investigate important issues, build new knowledge and contribute to their fields. Dive into hands-on research projects alongside faculty mentors, gaining experience for your professional career.
- Engage in high-level research. Ranked among the nation’s top 187 research universities by the , the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee has contributed to breakthroughs in sustainable energy, neuroscience, cancer research and water science. Our physicists were a key part of the research that won the 2017 Nobel Prize for the discovery of gravitational waves.
- Make an impact. At every corner of 51猎奇, faculty, staff and students are undertaking research projects to address pressing challenges and create positive change. Explore even more stories of 51猎奇鈥檚 wide-ranging research efforts.
Listed below are the requirements for the Physics major. In addition to the requirements for the major, students must also satisfy all university and college general degree requirements. Degree requirements will vary depending on when you took your first college class. We encourage you to consult your advisor regularly to ensure you stay on track towards earning your degree. You can read more about the degree requirements on the L&S Degree Requirements web pages.
Jump to Physics & Engineering Double Major
Physics听Major Requirements
The department offers two study options. The standard physics major is for students who seek a general physics degree. The physics major with astronomy emphasis is for students who wish to pursue their interest in astronomy. While the standard physics major generally is followed by students who plan to go on to graduate school, the major with astronomy emphasis also enables students to pursue graduate work in physics.
Both options require that students take at least 15 credits in the major in advanced-level (numbered 300 and above) courses in residence at 51猎奇. The College of Letters & Science requires that students attain at least a 2.0 GPA on all credits in the major attempted at 51猎奇. In addition, students must attain a 2.0 GPA on all major credits attempted, including any transfer work. All students in the College are required to complete a research experience in their majors. Physics majors meet this requirement by successfully completing an upper-level, 3-credit laboratory courses.
Freshmen who enter with scores of 4 or 5 on the Physics Advanced Placement exam given by CEEB are given partial credit for the introductory courses.
Standard Physics Major
A minimum of 43 credits in physics, including:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select one of the following options: 1 | 10 | |
| Option 1: | ||
&补尘辫;听 | Physics I (Calculus Treatment) and Lab Physics I (Calculus Treatment) | |
&补尘辫;听 | Physics II (Calculus Treatment) and Lab Physics II (Calculus Treatment) | |
| Option 2: | ||
| Physics I: Calculus-Based, Studio Format | ||
| Physics II: Calculus-Based, Studio Format | ||
| Physics III: Modern Physics | 3 | |
| Thermodynamics | 3 | |
| Optics | 4 | |
| Analytical and Numerical Methods in Physics | 3 | |
| Select one of the following: 2 | 3 | |
| Introduction to Infrared Microspectroscopy | ||
| Computational Physics Laboratory | ||
| Experiments in Linear Electronics | ||
| Modern Physics Laboratory | ||
| Electron Microscopy Laboratory | ||
| Undergraduate Research Participation 3 | ||
| Mechanics | 4 | |
| Electricity and Magnetism I | 3 | |
| Electricity and Magnetism II | 3 | |
| Introduction to Quantum Mechanics I | 4 | |
| Introduction to Quantum Mechanics II | 3 | |
| Electives | ||
| Selecting electives are encouraged (see below) | ||
| Total Credits | 43 | |
- 1
/ and / are strongly recommended; however, and may be substituted.
- 2
These courses are听苍辞迟听offered every semester; check with the undergraduate advisor to plan for completing this requirement.
- 3
The research proposal must be approved by the undergraduate advisor and the Departmental Undergraduate Committee, and it must demonstrate pedagogical value. Unfocused laboratory internships are not acceptable.
Electives
No elective courses are required, but students are encouraged to select electives from Physics or Astronomy courses 300 level or above from the following list. Only the courses identified in the list below with the phrase 鈥渋f not selected above鈥� will be counted in the student's major GPA. Electives may not be offered every semester; check with the undergraduate advisor to plan for completing this requirement.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Astrophysics I | 3 | |
| Astrophysics II | 3 | |
| Medical Physics | 3 | |
| Introduction to Biophysics | 3 | |
| Basics of Condensed Matter Physics | 3 | |
| Undergraduate Research Participation | 1-6 | |
| Introduction to Infrared Microspectroscopy (if not selected above) | 3 | |
| Computational Physics Laboratory (if not selected above) | 3 | |
| Experiments in Linear Electronics (if not selected above) | 3 | |
| Modern Physics Laboratory (if not selected above) | 3 | |
| Special Topics: Mathematical Models of Physical Problems I | 3 | |
| Statistical Mechanics | 3 | |
| Special Relativity | 3 | |
| Principles of Quantum Mechanics I | 3 | |
| Principles of Quantum Mechanics II | 3 | |
| Elementary Particles | 3 | |
| Introduction to Solid State Physics I | 3 | |
| Introduction to Solid State Physics II | 3 | |
| Electron Microscopy Laboratory (if not selected above) | 3 |
Physics Major with Astronomy Emphasis
A minimum of 55 credits in physics and astronomy courses, including:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required | ||
| Select one of the following options: 1 | 10 | |
| Option 1: | ||
&补尘辫;听 | Physics I (Calculus Treatment) and Lab Physics I (Calculus Treatment) | |
&补尘辫;听 | Physics II (Calculus Treatment) and Lab Physics II (Calculus Treatment) | |
| Option 2: | ||
| Physics I: Calculus-Based, Studio Format | ||
| Physics II: Calculus-Based, Studio Format | ||
| Physics III: Modern Physics | 3 | |
| Optics | 4 | |
| Thermodynamics | 3 | |
| Analytical and Numerical Methods in Physics | 3 | |
| Select one of the following: 2 | 3 | |
| Introduction to Infrared Microspectroscopy | ||
| Computational Physics Laboratory | ||
| Experiments in Linear Electronics | ||
| Modern Physics Laboratory | ||
| Electron Microscopy Laboratory | ||
| Undergraduate Research Participation 3 | ||
| Mechanics | 4 | |
| Electricity and Magnetism I | 3 | |
| Electricity and Magnetism II | 3 | |
| Introduction to Quantum Mechanics I | 4 | |
| Introduction to Quantum Mechanics II | 3 | |
| Astrophysics I 2 | 3 | |
| Astrophysics II 2 | 3 | |
| Electives 2 | ||
| Select 6 credits from the following: | 6 | |
| Survey of Astronomy | ||
or听 | Principles of Astronomy | |
| Cosmic Origins | ||
| The Origin, Composition, and Structure of the Planetary Atmospheres | ||
| Geology of the Planets | ||
| Undergraduate Research Participation | ||
| Special Topics: Mathematical Models of Physical Problems I | ||
| Special Relativity | ||
| Elementary Particles | ||
Or another course approved by the undergraduate advisor | ||
| Total Credits | 55 | |
- 1
/听and听/听are strongly recommended; however,听听and听听may be substituted.
- 2
These courses are not offered every semester; check with the undergraduate advisor to plan for completing this requirement.
- 3
The research proposal must be approved by the undergraduate advisor and the Departmental Undergraduate Committee, and it must demonstrate pedagogical value. Unfocused laboratory internships are not acceptable.
Possible Course Substitutions for Students with Physics and Engineering Double Majors
One of the following courses may be substituted for :
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Computer Based Engineering Analysis | 3 | |
| Introduction to Engineering Programming | 3 | |
| Introductory Computer Programming | 4 | |
| Computational Tools for Engineers | 2 |
The following course may be substituted for :
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Engineering Thermodynamics | 3 |
The combination of both of the following may substitute for :
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Statics | 3 | |
| Dynamics | 3 |
Upper level engineering technical electives may be substituted for and independent study/research may be substituted for the 400-level laboratory courses.听
Physics & Engineering Double Major
The University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee offers a special degree combination in which a student completes all of the requirements for both a Physics Major and an Engineering Major.
Advantages of Double Major:
- intrinsic interest (physics is a fundamental and fascinating science).
- broad scientific background (engineering relies on recent scientific discoveries).
- better job offers, a physics major gives you an extra qualification.
- more flexible career options (you can pursue both engineering & physics).
There is a list of course equivalences for College of Engineering & Applied Science (CEAS) dual majors. Note that Double Majors graduate through CEAS and must satisfy the CEAS requirements; students should consult with the CEAS advisors.
Below are possible course substitutions for students pursuing the Physics and Engineering Double Major:
Track Requirements
Physics Major with Astronomy Emphasis
A minimum of 55 credits in physics and astronomy courses, including:
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required | ||
| Select one of the following options: 1 | 10 | |
| Option 1: | ||
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听209&补尘辫;听笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听214 | Physics I (Calculus Treatment)and Lab Physics I (Calculus Treatment) | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听210&补尘辫;听笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听215 | Physics II (Calculus Treatment)and Lab Physics II (Calculus Treatment) | |
| Option 2: | ||
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听219 | Physics I: Calculus-Based, Studio Format | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听220 | Physics II: Calculus-Based, Studio Format | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听309 | Physics III: Modern Physics | 3 |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听325 | Optics | 4 |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听317 | Thermodynamics | 3 |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听370 | Analytical and Numerical Methods in Physics | 3 |
| Select one of the following: 2 | 3 | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听406 | Introduction to Infrared Microspectroscopy | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听407 | Computational Physics Laboratory | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听408 | Experiments in Linear Electronics | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听409 | Modern Physics Laboratory | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听670 | Electron Microscopy Laboratory | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听391 | Undergraduate Research Participation 3 | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听411 | Mechanics | 4 |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听420 | Electricity and Magnetism I | 3 |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听422 | Electricity and Magnetism II | 3 |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听441 | Introduction to Quantum Mechanics I | 4 |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听442 | Introduction to Quantum Mechanics II | 3 |
| 础厂罢搁翱狈听400 | Astrophysics I 2 | 3 |
| 础厂罢搁翱狈听401 | Astrophysics II 2 | 3 |
| Electives 2 | ||
| Select 6 credits from the following: | 6 | |
| ASTRON听103 | Survey of Astronomy | |
| or听ASTRON听211 | Principles of Astronomy | |
| ASTRON听175 | Cosmic Origins | |
| ATM听SCI听110 | The Origin, Composition, and Structure of the Planetary Atmospheres | |
| GEO听SCI听120 | Geology of the Planets | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听391 | Undergraduate Research Participation | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听501 | Special Topics: Mathematical Models of Physical Problems I | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听517 | Special Relativity | |
| 笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听541 | Elementary Particles | |
| Or another course approved by the undergraduate advisor | ||
| Total Credits | 55 | |
- 1
笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听209/笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听214听and听笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听210/笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听215听are strongly recommended; however,听笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听219听and听笔贬驰厂滨颁厂听220听may be substituted.
- 2
These courses are not offered every semester; check with the undergraduate advisor to plan for completing this requirement.
- 3
The research proposal must be approved by the undergraduate advisor and the Departmental Undergraduate Committee, and it must demonstrate pedagogical value. Unfocused laboratory internships are not acceptable.
Letters & Science Advising
During your time at 51猎奇, you may have multiple members of your success team, including advisors, peer mentors and success coaches. Letters & Science students typically work with at least two different types of advisors as they pursue their degrees: professional college advisors and faculty advisors. L&S college advisors advise across your entire degree program while departmental faculty advisors focus on the major.
College advisors are located in Holton Hall (or virtually for online students) and serve as your primary advisor. They are your point person for your questions about navigating college and completing your degree. College advisors will:
- Assist you in defining your academic and life goals.
- Help you create an educational plan that is consistent with those goals.
- Assist you in understanding curriculum, major and degree requirements for graduation, as well as university policies and procedures.
- Provide you with information about campus and community resources and refer you to those resources as appropriate.
- Monitor your progress toward graduation and completion of requirements.
Faculty advisors mentor students in the major and assist them in maximizing their development in the program. You will begin working with a faculty advisor when you declare your major. Faculty advisors are an important partner and will:
- Help you听understand major requirements and course offerings in the department.听
- Explain opportunities for internships and undergraduate research and guide you in obtaining those experiences.
- Serve as an excellent resource as you consider potential graduate programs and career paths in your field.
Students are encouraged to meet with both their college advisor and faculty advisor at least once each semester. Appointments are available in-person, by phone or by video.听
Currently enrolled students should use the 听to make an appointment with your assigned advisor or call (414) 229-4654 if you do not currently have an assigned Letters & Science advisor.听Prospective students who haven't enrolled in classes yet should call (414) 229-7711 or email听let-sci@uwm.edu.
Physics BS Learning Outcomes
Students graduating from the Physics program will be able to:听
- solve problems using the principles of classical mechanics, electrodynamics, thermodynamics, and quantum mechanics.
- employ general principles of physics to develop mathematical models of the physical world.
- apply appropriate mathematical and numerical techniques, including approximate methods.听
- critically evaluate the validity of the results.
- design and conduct scientific experiments to test new ideas and theories using standard laboratory procedures.听
- analyze the data using basic statistical principles.
- present concepts and results clearly, in both written and oral form, to peers and the public.
鈥�
We encourage you to begin exploring career options when you declare your major or at the start of your sophomore year, whichever comes first.