This four-year degree program in the interdisciplinary physical sciences offers a strong foundation in related areas of engineering sciences, mathematics, and physics for professional work in the field of industrial research and technology. It also provides a foundation for graduate degree work in applied mathematics, engineering sciences, and physics.
The Applied Mathematics, Engineering, and Physics (AMEP) program is an excellent choice for the student with broad interests in mathematics, physics, and engineering. AMEP emphasizes an integrated mathematics and physics curriculum and strives to achieve an optimum balance of breadth and depth in the physical sciences within the confines of a four-year degree.
How to Get in
Declaration Requirements
Because admission into AMEP is internal to UW–Madison, a student must be admitted to UW–Madison or already be a UW–Madison student to join AMEP.
The general expectation for admission to the AMEP program is completion of the introductory calculus and physics sequences with appropriate success. Specifically a student must have
- Completed MATH 221, MATH 222, and MATH 234 with at least a 2.75 GPA.
- Completed PHYSICS 247, PHYSICS 248, PHYSICS 249 with at least a 2.75 GPA.
- For alternate Introductory Physics courses, see the Requirements tab.
Students who do not meet the above qualifications (transfer students, freshmen with advanced standings, etc.) may be admitted to the program on a probationary basis. However, such students who do not eventually meet the above admission requirement or maintain a 2.000 GPA in quality of work program requirements in their first term at UW-Madison may be reassigned to a standard BA or BS degree.
Finally, students who have accrued 86 or more credits will be admitted to the AMEP program only if:
- the student has above a 2.000 GPA in both the general and upper-level quality of work requirements (see Requirements) and
- the student has fewer than 60 outstanding credits needed to complete the BS-AMEP degree.
Declaring the Applied Mathematics, Engineering, and Physics Undergraduate Degree Program
Any student who is interested in the AMEP program should meet with a program advisor as soon as possible. The advisor will help the student negotiate pre-AMEP status and eventually assist in declaration for the program. In general, this should be the AMEP academic advisor or an AMEP math faculty advisor.
Advising information can be found in the Advising and Careers tab.
Students pursuing the BS-AMEP degree are not eligible to declare the following programs:
- Mathematics for Physical and Biological Sciences named option of the Mathematics major
- Mathematics certificate
- Physics certificate
University General Education Requirements
All undergraduate students at the University of Wisconsin–Madison are required to fulfill a minimum set of common university general education requirements to ensure that every graduate acquires the essential core of an undergraduate education. This core establishes a foundation for living a productive life, being a citizen of the world, appreciating aesthetic values, and engaging in lifelong learning in a continually changing world. Various schools and colleges will have requirements in addition to the requirements listed below. Consult your advisor for assistance, as needed. For additional information, see the university Undergraduate General Education Requirements section of the Guide.
| General Education |
* The mortarboard symbol appears before the title of any course that fulfills one of the Communication Part A or Part B, Ethnic Studies, or Quantitative Reasoning Part A or Part B requirements. |
College of Letters & Science Degree Requirements: Bachelor of Science-Applied Mathematics, Engineering, and Physics (BS-AMEP)
Students pursuing a Bachelor of Science—Applied Mathematics, Engineering, and Physics degree in the College of Letters & Science must complete all of the requirements below. The BS—AMEP is a special degree program; it is not considered a major. The BS—AMEP degree is not available to students who intend to earn a degree outside the College of Letters & Science.
Bachelor of Science - AMEP Degree Requirements
| Mathematics | Complete the University General Education Requirements for Quantitative Reasoning A (QR-A) and Quantitative Reasoning B (QR-B) coursework. |
| Language | Complete the second unit of a language other than English. |
| Liberal Arts and Science Requirement | Complete a minimum of 20 credits in Liberal Arts and Science (LAS) coursework outside the physical and mathematical sciences, including: • at least of 12 credits of Humanities and/or Social Science, including at least 6 credits in Humanities and at least 3 credits of Social Science • a maximum of 8 credits of Biological Science • additional eligible coursework to reach 20 total credits. Courses that carry the Physical Science breadth designation, or are listed (or cross-listed) in the MATH or COMP SCI subjects, are not eligible. |
| Total Credits | Complete at least 125 credits. |
| UW—Madison Experience | Complete both: • 30 credits in residence, overall, and • 30 credits in residence after the 90th credit. |
| Quality of Work | • 2.000 in all coursework at UW–Madison |
Program Overview
A total of at least 125 credits with a minimum GPA of 2.000 is required for this degree plan. Of these credits, at least 83 must be devoted to the Applied Math, Engineering and Physics (AMEP) program requirements; 20 must be devoted to University General Education requirements; and the balance should be taken to meet the Bachelor of Science – AMEP Degree Requirements and Electives.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| University General Education Requirements | 20 | |
| Bachelor of Science – AMEP Degree Requirements | 22 | |
| AMEP Program Requirements | 83 | |
| Total Credits | 125 | |
AMEP Program Requirements
Foundational Mathematics
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Single Variable Calculus | ||
| Complete both. | ||
| MATH 221 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry 1 | 5 |
| MATH 222 | Calculus and Analytic Geometry 2 | 4 |
| Multivariable Calculus | ||
| Complete one of the following: | 4-10 | |
| Calculus--Functions of Several Variables | ||
| Topics in Multi-Variable Calculus and Linear Algebra and Topics in Multi-Variable Calculus and Differential Equations 1 | ||
| Total Credits | 13-19 | |
Foundational Physics
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| First Introductory Course | ||
| Complete one of the following: | 3-5 | |
| A Modern Introduction to Physics | ||
| General Physics | ||
| General Physics | ||
| Dynamics | ||
| Dynamics | ||
| Second Introductory Course | ||
| Complete one of the following: | 5 | |
| A Modern Introduction to Physics | ||
| General Physics | ||
| General Physics | ||
| Third Introductory Course | ||
| Complete one of the following: | 3-4 | |
| A Modern Introduction to Physics | ||
| Introduction to Modern Physics | ||
| Modern Physics for Engineers | ||
| Introduction to Solid State Electronics | ||
| Total Credits | 11-14 | |
Chemistry
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Complete one of the following: | 5-9 | |
| Advanced General Chemistry | ||
| General Chemistry I and General Chemistry II | ||
| Chemical Principles I | ||
| Total Credits | 5-9 | |
Mathematics
Complete at least six courses for 18 credits.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Core: Linear Algebra | ||
| Complete one of the following: | 3-5 | |
| Linear Algebra and Differential Equations 2 | ||
| Elementary Matrix and Linear Algebra | ||
| Linear Algebra | ||
| Topics in Multi-Variable Calculus and Linear Algebra | ||
| Core: Differential Equations | ||
| Complete one of the following: | 0-5 | |
| Linear Algebra and Differential Equations 2 | ||
| Techniques in Ordinary Differential Equations | ||
| Topics in Multi-Variable Calculus and Differential Equations | ||
| Core: Applied Analysis | ||
| Complete both. | ||
| MATH 321 | Applied Mathematical Analysis | 3 |
| MATH 322 | Applied Mathematical Analysis | 3 |
| Math Electives | ||
| Complete at least three courses for 9 credits. Select from: | 9 | |
| Applied Dynamical Systems, Chaos and Modeling | ||
| The Theory of Single Variable Calculus | ||
| Introduction to the Theory of Probability | ||
| Introduction to Probability and Mathematical Statistics I | ||
| Applied Linear Algebra | ||
| Numerical Linear Algebra | ||
| Numerical Analysis | ||
| Ordinary Differential Equations | ||
| Analysis I | ||
| Analysis II | ||
| Probability Theory | ||
| Differential Geometry | ||
| Data-Driven Dynamical Systems, Stochastic Modeling and Prediction | ||
| Analysis of Partial Differential Equations | ||
| Complex Analysis | ||
| Introduction to Fourier Analysis | ||
| Introduction to Stochastic Processes | ||
| Total Credits | 18-25 | |
Physics
Complete at least five courses for 15 credits.
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Core: Physics | ||
| Complete both. | ||
| PHYSICS 311 | Mechanics | 3 |
| PHYSICS 322 | Electromagnetic Fields | 3 |
| Physics Electives | ||
| Remaining courses/credits from any PHYSICS course numbered 307 and above. | 9 | |
| Total Credits | 15 | |
Engineering
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Complete 21 credits meeting the following criteria: | 21 | |
| Must be distinct from any courses used to fulfill math and physics requirements above. | ||
| Selected from the following: | ||
Biomedical Engineering (B M E) 300-699 | ||
Chemical and Biological Engineering (CBE) 300-699 | ||
Civil and Environmental Engineering (CIV ENGR) 300-699 | ||
Electrical and Computer Engineering (E C E) 300-699 | ||
Engineering Mechanics and Aerospace Engineering (E M A) 300-699 | ||
Engineering Physics (E P) 300-699 | ||
Engineering Professional Development (E P D) 300-699 | ||
Geological Engineering (G L E) 300-699 | ||
Industrial and Systems Engineering (I SY E) 300-699 | ||
Interdisciplinary Courses (Engineering) (INTEREGR) 300-699 | ||
Materials Science and Engineering (M S E) 300-699 | ||
Mechanical Engineering (M E) 300-699 | ||
Nuclear Engineering (N E) 300-699 | ||
Laboratory Experience3
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Completed with a minimum of 3 credits selected from the options below. | 0-3 | |
| The following course applies as 3 credits of lab: | ||
| Aerodynamics Lab | ||
| The following courses apply as 2 credits of lab each: | ||
| Intermediate Laboratory-Mechanics and Modern Physics | ||
| Electric Circuits and Electronics | ||
| Optics | ||
| Advanced Laboratory | ||
| Electronic Aids to Measurement | ||
| Applied Optics | ||
| The following courses apply as 1 credit of lab each: | ||
| Circuits Laboratory I | ||
| Mechanics of Materials Lab | ||
Computational Experience3
| Code | Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Select one of the following: | 0-3 | |
| Introduction to Numerical Methods | ||
| Intermediate Problem Solving for Engineers | ||
| Numerical Linear Algebra | ||
| Numerical Analysis | ||
Residence and Quality of Work
- Minimum 2.000 GPA in AMEP program courses.4
- Minimum 2.000 GPA and 15 upper-level AMEP program credits, taken in residence.4, 5
- 15 credits in AMEP program courses, taken on the UW–Madison campus.4
Honors in the Major
Honors in the Major is not available in Applied Mathematics, Engineering, and Physics.
Footnotes
- 1
MATH 375 may also be used to fulfill the Linear Algebra requirement below. MATH 376 may be used to fulfill the Differential Equations requirement below.
- 2
MATH 320 fulfills both the Linear Algebra and Differential Equations requirements. AMEP students are encouraged to consider the honors version of the course which is taught by AMEP faculty.
- 3
Courses used to fulfill this requirement need not be distinct from courses used to fulfill Mathematics, Physics, and Engineering requirements in AMEP.
- 4
This includes only those courses which may be used to fulfill Mathematics, Physics, Engineering, Chemistry, Laboratory, and Computational requirements described in the tables above.
- 5
A course numbered 300 or above is considered upper-level in the program.
University Degree Requirements
| Total Degree | To receive a bachelor's degree from UW–Madison, students must earn a minimum of 120 degree credits. The requirements for some programs may exceed 120 degree credits. Students should consult with their college or department advisor for information on specific credit requirements. |
| Residency | Degree candidates are required to earn a minimum of 30 credits in residence at UW–Madison. "In residence" means on the UW–Madison campus with an undergraduate degree classification. “In residence” credit also includes UW–Madison courses offered in distance or online formats and credits earned in UW–Madison Study Abroad/Study Away programs. |
| Quality of Work | Undergraduate students must maintain the minimum grade point average specified by the school, college, or academic program to remain in good academic standing. Students whose academic performance drops below these minimum thresholds will be placed on academic probation. |
Learning Outcomes
- State, explain and apply principal theorems and techniques of applied mathematics, including (but not limited to) the subject areas of vector and complex calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations.
- State, explain and apply theory and methods of classical and modern physics such as mechanics (classical, statistical, quantum), electricity, magnetism, thermodynamics, radiation and atomic physics.
- Develop strategies to synthesize applied mathematics and physical sciences to address engineering problems, with emphasis on problems of current interest.
- Design and conduct experiments to explore hypotheses regarding science and/or technology and/or engineering problems, and will use mathematics to help interpret experimental results.
- Work in multidisciplinary groups of mathematicians, physical scientists, and engineers to formulate and solve STEM problems, which includes the creation and evaluation of models for natural phenomena.
- Through written and oral presentations, students will communicate technical/scientific ideas and results to experts and non-experts.
Four-Year Plan
This Four-Year Plan is only one way a student may complete an L&S degree with this major. Many factors can affect student degree planning, including placement scores, credit for transferred courses, credits earned by examination, and individual scholarly interests. In addition, many students have commitments (e.g., athletics, honors, research, student organizations, study abroad, work and volunteer experiences) that necessitate they adjust their plans accordingly. Informed students engage in their own unique Wisconsin Experience by consulting their academic advisors, Guide, DARS, and Course Search & Enroll for assistance making and adjusting their plan.
Program Expectations
AMEP students come to UW-Madison with a wide range of mathematics preparation. Please see Advising and Careers for more information and alternative plans.
| First Year | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| PHYSICS 247 | 5 | Communication A | 3 |
| MATH 234 | 4 | MATH 320 (honors) | 3 |
| CHEM 109 | 5 | PHYSICS 248 | 5 |
| Foreign Language 1 | 4 | Foreign Language 2 | 4 |
| 18 | 15 | ||
| Second Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| MATH 321 | 3 | INTER-LS 210 | 1 |
| PHYSICS 249 | 4 | MATH 322 | 3 |
| PHYSICS 311 | 3 | PHYSICS 322 | 3 |
| Humanities Breadth | 3 | Core Math Elective 2 | 3 |
| Core Math Elective 1 | 3 | Humanities Breadth | 3 |
| Biological/Social Science or Humanities | 3 | ||
| 16 | 16 | ||
| Third Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Core Math Elective 3 | 3 | Core Physics 2 | 4 |
| Physics Elective 1 | 4 | Core Physics 3 | 4 |
| Lab Experience | 2-4 | Computational Experience | 3 |
| Humanities/Social Science Breadth | 3 | Engineering 1 | 3 |
| Ethnic Studies/Social Science Breadth | 3 | ||
| 16 | 14 | ||
| Fourth Year | |||
| Fall | Credits | Spring | Credits |
| Communication B | 3 | Engineering courses | 9 |
| Engineering Courses | 12 | Humanities Breadth | 3 |
| Electives | 3 | ||
| 15 | 15 | ||
| Total Credits 125 | |||
Advising and Careers
For information about advising for this special Letters & Science degree program, students should refer to AMEP Advising.
Recommended Advanced Courses
A number of intermediate and advanced courses are recommended by AMEP advisors for use as electives beyond the core math and physics curricula. Please see our Courses page for a list of recommended courses.
Alternative Four-Year Plans
Students pursuing an AMEP degree start college with a wide variety of preparations in mathematics. We have examples of some different paths students may take through the degree on the Four-Year Plans page of the program website.
L&S Career Resources
Every L&S major opens a world of possibilities. SuccessWorks at the College of Letters & Science helps students turn the academic skills learned in their major, certificates, and other coursework into fulfilling lives after graduation, whether that means jobs, public service, graduate school or other career pursuits.
In addition to providing basic support like resume reviews and interview practice, SuccessWorks offers ways to explore interests and build career skills from their very first semester/term at UW all the way through graduation and beyond.
Students can explore careers in one-on-one advising, try out different career paths, complete internships, prepare for the job search and/or graduate school applications, and connect with supportive alumni and even employers in the fields that inspire them.
- SuccessWorks
- Set up a career advising appointment
- Enroll in a Career Course - a great idea for first- and second-year students:
- INTER-LS 210 L&S Career Development: Taking Initiative (1 credit)
- INTER-LS 215 Communicating About Careers (3 credits, fulfills Comm B General Education Requirement)
- Learn about internships and internship funding
- INTER-LS 260 Internship in the Liberal Arts and Sciences
- Activate your Handshake account to apply for jobs and internships from 200,000+ employers recruiting UW-Madison students
- Learn about the impact SuccessWorks has on students' lives