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The goals of the physics curriculum are to provide a conceptual and quantitative understanding of the fundamental laws of nature upon which all physical and biological systems depend, and to provide the experimental and theoretical methods required to attain this understanding. The physics department courses serve the needs and interests of students regardless of their background in science and mathematics. Physics 101 (The Sky), 102 (Introduction to Astronomy) and 110 (The Scientific Revolution) are designed for the student with little or no background in the sciences or mathematical reasoning. Students in the life sciences or the pre-medical program should enroll in Physics 103, 104 (College Physics). Students with high school preparation in physics and mathematics who plan to major in a physical science should elect Physics 151, 152 (University Physics), as should those in the Engineering Combined Plan.    Students who are curious about the behavior of the natural world at its most basic level and who find pleasure in discovering the order in the world around them should consider a major in physics. In addition to its intrinsic worth as a liberal art, the study of physics serves as preparation for further professional training in physics, engineering, medicine and other related fields, such as biophysics, geophysics, space science, and secondary school science teaching. Physics majors also pursue careers in business, management and industry, often in areas that deal in the application or development of technology.    Coursework for the physics major depends on material covered in previous courses, so it is strongly advised to begin with Physics 151, 152 in the first year. Physics 221, 222 (Modern Physics) should be completed in the sophomore year, by which time all of the major topics in classical and modern physics will have been surveyed. Courses at the junior and senior level investigate particular areas of physics in greater detail and abstraction, and at increasing levels of mathematical sophistication.    Students may also undertake independent studies and projects at the intermediate or upper level on topics of mutual interest. A special feature of the curriculum is the seminar series in contemporary physics, which introduces the student to recent discoveries and active fields of research.    It is possible for physics majors to participate in programs abroad. Those interested in this option should take Physics 151, 152 in their first year and consult the department for details.    The physics department is distinguished by its strong laboratory program. Most 100 level courses include weekly experiments that are closely related to concurrent classroom work. Laboratory work in higher-level courses gradually allows students more freedom and responsibility to design and execute their experiments. Laboratory work for scheduled courses culminates in Physics 482 (Advanced Laboratory), a semester-long project selected and performed by each student in consultation with a faculty sponsor. Other student research may take place in either semester under courses designated Physics 403 and 404 (Topics in Advanced Physics).    Physics laboratories are well equipped with modern equipment, electronic instrumentation and computer facilities. A machine shop and darkroom are available for student use.    The physics faculty believe that the most complete education in physics is attained through the actual process of doing physics. Opportunities exist for student participation in faculty research activities during the academic year (Physics 403, 404) or during the summer. Well-qualified students may receive summer stipends to conduct research in astrophysics, experimental low-temperature physics, theoretical and computational solid-state physics and near-field optical microscopy.    St. Lawrence offers interdisciplinary majors in biology-physics and geology-physics; each is described in its own section in the University Catalog.