Physics
Academic programs
Undergraduate programs
Physics
Undergrad major Undergrad minorPhysicists study and uncover the fundamental rules of why and how things work, from quarks to galaxies. Physicists have uncovered some really weird and unexpected things about nature. But applying these principles of physics has transformed the way we interact with the world. Physics concepts are in action all around us — in computer chips, headphones, air bags, and many other everyday devices. It has also made a major impact in healthcare with medical diagnostics and treatments like MRIs and radiation therapy.
Emphasis
Applied
Undergrad majorThe applied emphasis gives you theoretical background to focus on the experimental aspect of physics. While not an engineering degree, this emphasis requires the same basic classes as the Bachelor of Science in Physics & Bachelor of Science in Engineering Dual Degree Program.
Emphasis
Astronomy
Undergrad major Undergrad minorThe science of astronomy applies principles of physics to everything beyond Earth’s atmosphere. Students use what they learn in core classical and modern physics courses to study the properties of stars, planets and exoplanets, white dwarfs, neutron stars, black holes, other galaxies, dark matter, dark energy, and cosmology.
Concentration
Biomedical
Undergrad majorDo you like physics, mathematics, chemistry, and biology? Are you struggling to choose just one for a major? You don’t have to with the biomedical concentration! This physics concentration combines all of these subjects by providing a set of core courses and allowing you to choose the advanced courses you will take to prepare for your future. Whether you are looking ahead to the rigors of medical school, a program in medical physics, a future in biomedical engineering or other options, a biomedical concentration could be the perfect path for you.
Concentration
Business
Undergrad majorCombine physics with business to grow your problem-solving skills while expanding your background in business including economics, accounting, finance and marketing. This concentration requires the physics core courses and provides the flexibility to choose from 12 additional physics classes from a catalog of classes. The rest of the classes are taught in the College of Business Administration.
Emphasis
Computational Physics
Undergrad majorComputational physics employs mathematics, computer science and physics to solve complex problems using computational methods.
Science Education
Undergrad major Teacher licenseCompletion of the physics: science education concentration program and associated benchmark assessments will lead to endorsement for the Wisconsin teaching license in middle and high school science, grades 4-12 (2600). Students in all teacher education programs must satisfy the School of Education (SOE) core requirements.
Emphasis
Optics
Undergrad majorFrom lasers and light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to fiberoptics, microscopes, spectrometers and telescopes, optical instruments play a key role in how we live and study the universe around us. In this emphasis, students take specialized optics courses where they learn about the fundamental properties of light and how modern optical instruments work.
Undergrad dual degree
Undergrad majorThis special dual degree program enables students to receive both a Bachelor of Science degree (physics major) from UWL and a Bachelor of Science degree (engineering major) from UW-Madison, UW-Milwaukee, UW-Platteville, UW-Stout, the University of Minnesota Duluth, or Winona State University. The total length of time for both degrees is expected to be five years.
Graduate dual degree
Undergrad major Graduate degree Doctoral degreeThis dual degree program enables students to receive both a Bachelor of Science degree (physics major with biomedical concentration) and a graduate degree (physical therapy) from UWL. The total length of time for both degrees is expected to be six years.
Engineering Physics
Undergrad majorEngineering Physics is a multidisciplinary field that integrates the fundamental principles of physics with core engineering concepts. Students will build a solid foundation in areas like mechanical, electrical, optical, and materials engineering, while also mastering key subjects such as physics, mathematics, chemistry and electronics. The program emphasizes the practical application of these concepts to solve real-world problems.
General Science for Teachers
Undergrad minorThe Science for Teachers Minor is specifically designed for education majors who want to enrich their ability to teach science in elementary and middle school settings. This minor provides foundational knowledge in four key areas of scientific inquiry. You will also have the opportunity to specialize in one area, enabling you to bring deeper expertise to your classroom.
As part of the program, you’ll take at least one course in the following areas:
- Biology
- Physics
- Geology
- Astronomy