Undergraduate

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.

UWM 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.

UWM’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.  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.

Problem-solving and abstract-thinking make physics students attractive job candidates across many industries. In a typical year, about half of all physics graduates nationwide enter the job market and half enter graduate schools. Of those who take jobs in the private sector, some work in manufacturing and some in service industries. Jobs include research and development, technical service, programming, finance, and marketing. For those employed by government agencies, the most common activities are research, development, and design, though a significant number enter military service each year.

Those who go to graduate schools are equipped not only to study physics, but also astronomy, engineering, mathematics, materials science, biophysics, medical physics, geophysics, and many other fields. UWM students have had outstanding success in being admitted into prestigious graduate school programs.