Academics

Undergraduate Studies

The Department's undergraduate programs in applied physics and applied mathematics prepare students primarily for graduate study but also for beginning professional careers. These intensive programs are for the well-prepared student who knows that he/she wants to apply modern science and mathematics to the solution of technical problems. The student should want to be engaged in the challenge of developing new technologies and to work at the forefront of applied science. There is a wide choice of technical and nontechnical electives at Columbia to suit most students' special interests. All Fu Foundation School of Engineering and Applied Science (FFSEAS) undergraduates share the renowned Core Curriculum with Columbia College undergraduates during their freshman and sophomore years. The Undergraduate Research Involvement Program provides opportunities for undergraduates to work on projects with individual faculty members.

The Department also offers three preprofessional courses: APPH E1300y Physics of the Human Body, APAM E1601y Introduction to Computational Mathematics and Physics, and MSAE E1001y Atomic-Scale Engineering of New Materials. These courses have attracted first- and second-year students who later become AP (Applied Physics), AM (Applied Mathematics) or MSE (Materials Science & Engineering) majors, as well as many others who pursue other majors.