<p>W&M is in state for me and I really like the school but I'm more interested in the sciences (probably physics & grad school, possibly math or other sciences) than in the humanities (though I enjoy those as well). Does anyone know anything about the strength of these programs particularly physics? Input from current students would be particularly helpful. Thanks in advance!</p>
<p>We hope some current students respond but in the meantime, check out the Physics Department’s research page ([William</a> & Mary - REU - Research Experience for Undergraduates](<a href=“http://www.wm.edu/as/physics/undergrad/researchopportunities/reu/index.php]William”>http://www.wm.edu/as/physics/undergrad/researchopportunities/reu/index.php)). There’s some great work being done within that department.</p>
<p>W&M has a new physics building/research center on campus, has access to the Jefferson National Accelerator Facility in Newport News, and collaborates on projects with U of Chicago, including work to verify the ultimately discredited results form Europe re neutrinos moving faster than the speed of light. There are also lots of opportunities for undergrads to get involved with research there and a unique year long program where physics majors can study abroad at St Andrews and take the same classes they would junior year at W&M. Overall, W&M is a very good bet for physics at the undergrad level.</p>
<p>Thanks for the info! Also, what can you tell me about the 3-2 engineering program? I’ve thought a little about this but I don’t know much about it. Are RPI and Columbia the only two partner schools and would it make more sense to just get a physics degree and a master’s in engineering?</p>
<p>The 3-2 program allows students to pursue a BS in the science behind their engineering field at W&M and then get their engineering degree. So for example if you wanted to do chemical engineering, you would spend 3 years at W&M getting your BS in chemistry and then two years at either RPI Columbia (yes, those are the only two partner institutions) getting your BS in engineering. </p>
<p>You could also decide to spend your four years at W&M getting your degree and then applying to engineering masters program. W&M students do very well applying to such graduate schools.</p>
<p>I’m a parent of a 2nd year student. He loves the physics dept and is a minute away from declaring Physics as his major. He choose W&M for its sciences and math programs. Nothing but the best to say of the Professors and the facilities at Small Hall. This year he was chosen to assist in a research project working between W&M and J-Lab. Point being the program is stellar. Research oppurtunites,modern facility, engaged professors and assistants.</p>