Great programs do come in small packages, as evidenced by the Physics program at Lycoming. Classes at Lycoming are small, averaging 10-15 students per major course, giving all students an opportunity to receive individual attention. There are three full-time professors, all with doctoral degrees, in the department and an open-door policy that gives students easy access to them.

"Physics and astronomy at Lycoming differ from many other institutions because of the emphasis on lab-based instruction," states department member Dr. David Fisher. "It helps students grasp theoretical concepts if they can see them in practice rather than just read about them in a textbook. From their freshman year, we encourage our students to use whatever equipment we have in their areas of interest. It can be very rewarding."

A fundamental part of the physics program is the opportunity to participate in faculty-assisted research projects or pursue independent studies. Such projects often lead to publication in research journals or presentation at professional conferences.

After graduation Lycoming's physics majors have followed careers in industrial research, secondary education, development, or continued their education in physics or related areas at graduate schools across the country including Penn State University, University of Delaware, University of Virginia, George Mason University, University of Wyoming, and Colorado State University.