Engineering Physics program
Undergrad majorGain a broad and deep understanding of various engineering fields
In today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape, the lines between traditional engineering disciplines—such as civil, electrical, and mechanical engineering—are becoming increasingly blurred. Industries need engineers who are not only adaptable but also possess a broad and deep understanding of various fields.
The Engineering Physics program at UW-La Crosse combines the rigor of science, mathematics, and engineering to equip graduates with a unique skill set capable of addressing complex, interdisciplinary challenges. This program is designed to produce career-ready professionals who can thrive in diverse sectors, including industry, government research labs, and academia.
This new major is open to students beginning in fall 2025.
Careers in Engineering Physics
There is a growing demand for skilled engineers and scientists in Wisconsin and across the nation. Engineering careers, in general, are expanding at a rate faster than the average for all occupations, and professionals in this field typically enjoy competitive salaries and strong job security, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Career examples
- Product engineer
- Quality control engineer
- Process engineer
- Laboratory scientist
- Instrumentation specialist
- Data analyst
- Engineering consultant
What is Engineering Physics?
Engineering 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.
What distinguishes UWL's Engineering Physics program?
- Earned the American Physical Association Award for Improving Undergraduate Physics Education.
- Highlighted by the American Association of Physics Teachers (AAPT) as one of the most outstanding revitalized physics programs in the nation.
- Selected for a site visit from the American Institute of Physics to learn and promote the Physics Department’s effective practices for the preparation of physics undergraduates for STEM careers as part of the AIP Career Pathways Project in 2012.
The Engineering Physics program culminates with a sequence of two capstone courses, where students work in teams to develop a solution to a technical design problem. In addition, students can gain credit towards the Engineering Physics degree by taking part in student/faculty collaborative research in a variety of areas including optoelectronic devices, nanotechnology, photovoltaics, and materials growth and characterization.
The Engineering Physics major offers flexibility by complementing the Physics Department's dual-degree tracks in physics and engineering. Through these tracks, students can earn a Bachelor of Science in Physics alongside a degree in a specific engineering discipline from one of our partner institutions, such as UW-Madison. The Engineering Physics curriculum is structured to allow students to transition smoothly between different engineering degree options, ensuring minimal delays in their graduation timeline.
The Physics Department has all of its experimental facilities in UWL's modern science labs building, the Prairie Springs Science Center. The use of high-tech research equipment and laboratories prepare students for the skills required in the modern world. All faculty research labs are available for student involvement.
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