Physics Major With Engineering Emphasis

The Physics with Engineering Emphasis program allows students three options: (i) transfer after two years, (ii) complete a B.S. degree in four years, or (iii) participate in a 3-2 program with UW-Milwaukee to receive two B.S. degrees in five years. The 3-2 program is addressed in more detail on our 3-2 agreement page.

Transferring to an Engineering School

UW-Whitewater students can take courses in general education, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and engineering that will transfer into an engineering program at another school. Wisconsin schools of engineering which accept UW-Whitewater credits include:

• UW System Transfer Information System
• The University of Wisconsin - Madison College of Engineering
• The University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee College of Engineering
• The University of Wisconsin - Platteville
• Milwaukee School of Engineering
• Marquette University College of Engineering

Other engineering schools may also accept some or all credits earned at UW-Whitewater. In addition, UW - Whitewater has a joint pre-engineering program with UW - Platteville. Students who apply for this program have dual enrollment at UW-Whitewater and UW-Platteville. Application would normally occur within the first year of enrollment at UW-Whitewater. This is a different program than the 3-2 agreement with UW-Milwaukee and an engineering degree only is earned at UW-Platteville under this arrangement.

Engineering, Physics, and Modern Technology

Engineering is the design and development of safe and economical production of materials, products, and structures important to society. Engineering includes fields such as mechanical engineering, electrical and computer engineering , civil and environmental engineering, industrial engineering, nuclear engineering, agricultural engineering, and materials science. Today's engineers need a firm science background in order to apply the methods and knowledge of science. A thorough knowledge of basic physical principles is essential to understanding technology. Consequently, physics, chemistry, and mathematics courses can serve as an excellent introduction to engineering and applied physics for students planning careers in the rapidly evolving fields of modern technology.

Students who plan graduate study in engineering or applied science may find it most expedient and pleasant to finish their four years at The University of Wisconsin - Whitewater with a major in physics and then to go on directly to a graduate program in their chosen field. Again, broad training in fundamentals more than compensates for lack of elementary engineering courses. This is demonstrated by past graduates who have been successful in the engineering and technology with a physics major with industry emphasis.