The Siena College Physics Department is developing a clear curricular path that a student can follow to gain significant experience in an area of experimental physics. The Department is adding major equipment in four areas: optical spectroscopy, holography, x rays and nuclear physics. The new equipment is first used in the sophomore labs. A new junior-level laboratory course in experimental physics is being developed to reinforce the gains made in the sophomore labs by allowing students to continue to use the equipment, but at a higher level. Finally, when the students reach the senior year and are required to carry out an independent project, they have a solid base of skills and knowledge in one or more experimental physics areas, which they can then pursue intensively. Also, students performing research independent of the required senior project have many more options from which to select. The college is matching the award with an equal amount of funds.
