Electrodynamics 6 credits
About the course
Content The aim of the course is to convey in-depth knowledge of electromagnetism. The course starts with a brief rehearsal of the electromagnetism in the static and stationary cases and then the electromagnetic induction is treated with Faraday's law. Maxwell's equations are then studied in the general time-dependent case. Starting from them, the continuity equation and Poynting's theorem, are derived, and their interpretation in terms of charge and energy conservation is discussed. Thereafter, electromagnetic waves are treated in vacuum and in matter, with applications to e.g. electromagnetic waves in waveguides. The course concludes with an introduction to radiation theory, where dipole radiation is treated. In connection with this, the retarded potentials, that are used to determine dipole radiation, are introduced. Electromagnetic problems are modelled and solved using the software Comsol Multiphysics within the laboratory part of the course. The course comprises a theory part of 5 credits and a computer laboratory part of 1 credits.
Expected study results To fulfil the goals of knowledge and understanding, the student should be able to: - explain basic electromagnetic theory in terms of Maxwell's equations and conservation laws in terms of Poynting's theorem - describe basic electromagnetic phenomena such as induction and displacement current - explain the basic properties of electromagnetic waves in vacuum, in matter and in waveguides.
In order to fulfil the goals for proficiency and ability, the student should be able to: - solve electromagnetic problems in central areas such as induction, wave propagation and radiation - solve Maxwell's equations with different boundary conditions - use the concepts of electromagnetic potentials and retarded potentials to analyse electromagnetic problems - use the software Comsol Multiphysics to solve electromagnetic problems numerically.
In order to fulfil the goals for values and critical approach, the student should be able to: - show ability to make judgements with regard to scientific and ethical aspects when presenting results in laboratory work.
Forms of instruction The teaching is conducted in the form of lectures, problem solving sessions, and supervision in computer labs. The labs are compulsory.
Examination The examination for the course's theoretical part takes place individually in the form of a written exam at the end of the course. For the written examination one of the grades Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Merit (4), or Pass with Distinction (5) is set. The examination of the course's laboratory parts is done individually through written reports and oral presentations. For the written reports and oral presentations one of the grades Fail (U) or Pass (G) is set.
For the entire course, one of the grades Fail (U), Pass (3), Pass with Merit (4), or Pass with Distinction (5) is set. To fully pass the course, all parts must be passed. Provided that all passed are passed, the grade on the entire course will be the same as on the theoretical part. Those who have passed an exam can not do another exam in order to get higher grades.
Literature Griffiths David J.q (David Jeffery) Introduction to Electrodynamics 3rd ed. : Upper Saddle River, N.J. : Prentice Hall: cop. 1999: 576 p .: ISBN: 0-13-805326-X
Apply
-
Autumn 2025
-
Electrodynamics
Autumn 2025 / Umeå / English / On site
Show more Show less
Starts1 September 2025
Ends2 November 2025
Number of credits6 credits
Type of studiesOn site
Study pace33%
Teaching hoursDaytime
Study locationUmeå
LanguageEnglish
Application codeUMU-53000
Eligibility Foundations of Electromagnetics, Waves and Optics or equivalent.SelectionAcademic credits
ApplicationApplication deadline was 15 April 2025. Submit a late application at Universityadmissions.se.
Application and tuition feesAs a citizen of a country outside the European Union (EU), the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you are required to pay application and tuition fees for studies at Umeå University.
Application fee: SEK 900
Tuition fee, first instalment: SEK 15,230
Total fee: SEK 15,230
-
How to apply
Apply online via universityadmissions.se
You apply to our programmes and courses via universityadmissions.se – the official website for higher education applications in Sweden. There, you can track your application, check that your documents have been registered, and log in to find our your admission results.
Late applications
Admissions to most programmes and courses typically close after the final application deadline. However, some programmes and courses may still accept late applications if seats are available. These are marked “Open for late application” on universityadmissions.se. Please note that late applications are not guaranteed to be reviewed.
More about application and admission
Explore your future at Umeå University
Join a vibrant academic community where high-quality education meets groundbreaking research in science, technology, humanities, and the arts. At Umeå University, you will learn from passionate, expert teachers and benefit from a close connection between research, education, collaboration, and innovation.
-
World's most satisfied international students
#1 globally in the main categories of Living, Support, and Overall Satisfaction.
-
A university with health at its core
Umeå University is certified as a Healthy Campus, with many initiatives that promote health and well-being.
Questions about the course?
Good to know

How to apply
A step-by-step guide to apply for studies at Umeå University.

International Student Guide
Essential information for your journey to Umeå and your studies here.

Study guidance
A study counsellor can help you with many of your study-related questions.