Physics major Jessica Steidle, a junior from Nunda, N.Y., works on a project in the department's particle accelerator lab. Geneseo has one of the few particle accelerators at a liberal arts college and is used heavily for research.
GENESEO, N.Y. – SUNY Geneseo ranked first among the 500 colleges in the nation with bachelor’s-only physics departments for producing the largest number of students graduating with a physics degree from 2012-2014.
The data were recently published by the American Institute of Physics (AIP). Geneseo averaged 36 graduates per year in the classes of 2012-14, outdistancing by six students the next highest institution, California Polytechnic State University in San Luis Obispo, whose total enrollment is almost quadruple that of Geneseo’s 5,500 student population.
“This data illustrates the quality academic program we have built here over the years, which continues to attract highly-talented students interested in careers that a strong physics background requires,” said Charles Freeman, professor and chair of Geneseo’s Department of Physics. “Our faculty teaching is outstanding and a large number of students have the opportunity to engage in high-impact research projects that are often only available in graduate school.”
Physics major Tim Filkins, a senior from Belmont, N.Y., takes notes in the particle accelerator lab.
SUNY Geneseo’s Department of Physics and Astronomy prepares its students for a variety of careers including engineering and related fields, teacher certification and research in industry or graduate school.
In addition to teaching, the department’s nine full-time faculty members are involved in a variety of research projects, providing numerous opportunities for undergraduate students to get involved in research with faculty during the year and in the summer. Many students involved in research travel to physics conferences with faculty to present findings to a wider physics community.
The AIP is a not-for-profit organization that promotes the knowledge of physics and its application to human welfare.
Media Contact:
David Irwin
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Media Relations Director
(585) 245-5529
Irwin@geneseo.edu