University of Michigan

What you'll study

The Engineering Physics curriculum combines advanced physics courses with core engineering subjects and hands‑on laboratory work. Early years emphasise calculus, multivariable calculus, linear algebra, differential equations, introductory and intermediate classical mechanics, electromagnetism, and modern physics. Core engineering components typically include materials science, circuits and electronics, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and engineering design.

As you progress, you will study more specialised physics topics such as quantum mechanics, statistical mechanics, solid state physics, and optics, alongside applied engineering courses and computational methods. Experimental and measurement techniques, electronics labs, and numerical simulation are integrated through laboratory courses and project work.

The programme normally culminates in a senior design or capstone project in which students apply theory and experimental or computational methods to a practical engineering problem. Students may choose electives or concentration options in areas such as photonics and optics, condensed matter and materials, applied quantum technologies, energy systems, or computational physics.

• Mathematical methods for physics and engineering
• Classical mechanics and electrodynamics
• Quantum mechanics and statistical physics
• Electronics and instrumentation laboratories
• Materials science and solid state physics
• Computational physics and numerical methods
• Engineering design and senior capstone project

Entry requirements

Admission to the University of Michigan is competitive and looks for strong academic preparation in mathematics and physical sciences. Typical successful applicants will have taken advanced high school mathematics (including calculus where available) and physics; chemistry is also recommended. Demonstrated ability in problem solving, laboratory work and computational thinking strengthens an application.

Undergraduate admissions are based on a holistic review of transcripts, curriculum rigor, recommendation letters, personal statement and extracurricular achievements. Applicants from outside the US should hold an appropriately recognised secondary school diploma with strong marks in maths and science and must demonstrate English language proficiency through an approved test or equivalent evidence when required.

Specific course placement and prerequisite expectations are provided after admission; many incoming students place into first‑ or second‑year calculus and physics sequences depending on prior preparation. Transfer applicants are considered on the basis of college coursework in physics, calculus and introductory engineering subjects.

Career prospects

Graduates with an Engineering Physics degree have versatile career pathways because of their deep physics knowledge combined with engineering and computational skills. Common sectors include semiconductor and microelectronics, photonics and optical engineering, materials and nanotechnology, energy and power systems, aerospace, and instrumentation.

Many alumni pursue graduate studies (MSc or PhD) in physics, applied physics, materials science, electrical engineering or related fields; others enter industry in roles such as research engineer, design engineer, applications scientist, systems engineer, or technical consultant. Employers range from research laboratories and high‑technology manufacturers to startups, national laboratories and finance or data‑science firms that value quantitative problem solving.

Why study at University of Michigan

The University of Michigan offers access to a major public research university environment with extensive laboratory facilities, interdisciplinary research centres and close links between the College of Engineering and the Department of Physics. Students can take advantage of undergraduate research opportunities, internships with industry partners, and multidisciplinary projects spanning engineering, materials and applied physics.

On campus, resources such as maker spaces, dedicated optics and nanofabrication facilities, and strong career services help students develop practical skills and professional networks. The programme’s blend of rigorous theory and applied engineering training prepares students for both immediate entry into technical roles and for advanced study.

Advising and project‑based learning help tailor individual academic paths—students may combine the Engineering Physics degree with minors or certificates in areas like computational science, entrepreneurship or data analytics to broaden career options.