The department offers an undergraduate certificate in Physics. An understanding of the physical universe informs many disciplines. The study of Physics is essential to understanding nature and to advancing technology in the coming decades. A certificate in Physics increases the opportunities for students to become better informed on technological issues at the local, state, national, and international levels.
The certificate (18 credits) is designed to serve undergraduates majoring in biology, chemistry, mathematics, engineering, education and other fields who wish to extend their study of Physics beyond what may be required or recommended for their major without completing the full L&S Physics major requirements (35 credits including 6 intermediate/ advanced lab credits).
The Certificate Requirements
To earn a certificate in Physics, a student must complete at least 18 credits in Physics courses at the “intermediate” level or higher. Graduate-level courses are permitted, but on a case by case basis. No more than 3 credits of independent study and no special topics courses may be used to satisfy this requirement. Transfer or AP credit for 200-level introductory Physics is acceptable for meeting the requirements of the certificate. EMA 201 and EMA 202 or EMA 201 and ME 240 may be substituted for Physics 201 and together count for 5 credits. Otherwise, only courses within the department (or cross-listed with Physics) are acceptable. Only one course from each of the three semesters of introductory Physics can be counted.
- All undergraduates and special students are eligible (physics majors are not eligible).
- The certificate will be awarded upon completion of requirements.
- At least nine of the credits must be in residence.
- Only graded courses may be used toward the certificate.
- A minimum grade point average of 2.0 is required for courses used toward the certificate.
To Declare a Physics Certificate
To declare a certificate in Physics you must fill out a major/certificate declaration form. An Undergraduate Physics Advisor must sign the form. Students can declare the physics certificate at any time after completing one physics course on the Madison campus. In all cases, the certificate must be declared before the semester in which you graduate. The form to declare the certificate can be obtained at the department office in 2320 Chamberlin Hall or in the link above. Note: You should bring a copy of your current “course history” when you talk with the undergraduate advisor.