This paper presents an overview of how circuit models can be used for analysing wave propagation in stratified structures. Relatively complex structures can be analysed using models which are accessible to undergraduate students. Homogeneous slabs are modelled as transmission lines, and thin sheets between the slabs are modelled as lumped elements. It is seen that electric material properties act as shunt elements, and magnetic material properties act as series elements. When the sheets have periodic patterns, they can be represented with resonant circuits. When designing, for instance, an absorber for electromagnetic waves, the circuit models can be used as a starting point to derive a basic, stable design, which can later be optimized using full wave simulations if necessary. (Contains 11 figures.)