Knowledge of modern optics is increasingly important to workers in many areas of science and technology. Accordingly, the University of Oregon Physics Department has committed itself to the development of a strong program of research and education in the fields of optics and optical physics. Over the last two years, three tenure-level faculty members specializing in various aspects of optical physics have been added to the Department. An integral part of the new program is the development of an undergraduate teaching laboratory specializing in modern optics, optical technology, and spectroscopy. The ten experiments, of which the laboratory is composed, have been designed and will be taught by faculty actively involved in optics research. Equipment specified is almost without exception of the same type that is actually found in real research and development laboratories engaged in optics related work. Students successfully completing the course will have acquired not only a wide knowledge of the principles of optics but will also be well versed in the practice of optics. They will also gain exposure to simple yet important techniques such as the representation of physical processes on oscilloscopes, and the computer control of laboratory apparatus.
