College of Science and Mathematics

Physics

The program underwent an extensive review by a panel of physicists from top ranked institutions. An intensive self-study of all aspects of the department formed the basis for the review. This was followed by a two-day visit to the department in which the panel interviewed faculty, staff, and graduate and undergraduate students. The panel submitted a report with recommendations.

The committee recommended improvements in the "research culture" of the department, and an increase in university support for the graduate program. It also recommended that the department agree to a plan for the future of the astronomy program. It recommended greater recruiting efforts at both the graduate and undergraduate levels and program expansion to attract more undergraduate students.

The department reached an agreement with the dean to increase support for the graduate program, to increase the number of students and to encourage student presentations inside and outside the department. The department decided to hire new faculty in observational astronomy. Two astronomers will join the faculty in September 2000. Greater attention is being given to recruiting, especially on the undergraduate level. A program in Engineering Physics has been inaugurated.

Exit interviews with undergraduate majors were conducted by a committee of three faculty members. From these interviews, the faculty learned primarily information about curriculum issues. There is a need for more mathematical preparation in specifice areas such as Fourier Transforms and partial derivatives prior to junior level core courses. All 300 level courses should give more attention to thermal physics, optics and wave motion. Two semesters is inadequate to cover necessary content in mechanics and electrodynamics. More choice of laboratory courses is desired at the advanced level. Information was passed to course instructors who will implement short-term improvements. The undergraduate curriculum is undergoing a review.

A placement examination for incoming graduate students was initiated. The intent of the examination was to assist the Advisement Committee in determining which of two possible levels was appropriate for students at the beginning of their studies. Questions were taken from examinations in advanced undergraduate courses.

In two years, a good correlation between performance on the examination and success in the higher level core graduate courses was formed. Improved placement on the basis of this examination will save time lost by students through course failures and by wasting time in unchallenging courses.