The best time for a Physics and Astronomy major to go abroad will be a combination of their concentration, credits they have transferred in, whether they have a dual major or a minor,whether they plan on taking any summer classes, and obviously their personal situation. Listed below are some suggested time frames for each concentration. Students looking to go abroad during a different period are encouraged to work closely with their advisor and the Education Abroad Office.
For all concentrations short-term study abroad opportunities are normally fairly easy to fit into a student’s degree plan. Students are able to start participating on short-term programs (winter break, spring break, and summer) as early as their first year. Students participating on short-term faculty-led programs often fulfill General Education, Major Free Electives, Major Concentration courses, Language requirements, or 2nd Major/Minor requirements. Students participating on partner summer programs may be able to fulfill Physics/Astronomy requirements in addition to the above options. Some students will also engage in research or complete an international internship.
BA Physics
The best time for a student to complete a semester program is during the 2nd semester of Junior year or 1st semester of the Senior year. Students studying abroad during these semesters will often need to find a program that offers PHY 3020 and/or CHE 1101/1110. Students can also look to take CHE 1101/1110 during a summer session to provide even greater flexibility during their semester abroad.
Applied Physics
The best time for a student to complete a semester program is during the 1st semester of Junior year or 1st semester of the Senior year.
Physics Secondary Education
Most Secondary Education students will participate in a short-term program or on the International Student Teaching program their final semester. Students with advanced placement or transfer credits may be able to study abroad for a semester during their Sophomore year.
